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USS Iowa BB-61
30 October 1944
Life Magazine Cover Story |
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The foundations for a small town were laid on 27 June 1940. Named for a place that rested in the harbors of freedom in Middle America, it held much of the same establishments as any other small town: a barbershop, general store, chapel, and local jail. Activities for the inhabitants ranged from boxing matches and outdoor movies, to swimming and an occasional visit from a Hollywood star. This was Life in the small town of Battleship Iowa.
Men of many different backgrounds served as proud citizens of The USS Iowa protecting our freedom. These citizens were away from their true hometowns, family and friends while serving our great nation. They experienced Life as young adults and seasoned veterans aboard the namesake of the last class of U.S. Battleships. Some unfortunately took their last breath aboard the Iowa.
Today the small community of the Battleship Iowa is no more than a ghost town on the West Coast. Fifty years ago her first keel plate was laid at the New York Naval Yard. Today her future is uncertain. We here at USSIowa.com have made it our assignment to bring Life back aboard this ghost town and to honor the USS Iowa Citizens who defended our freedom.