About this Unit
USS New Orleans (CA-32) was a New Orleans-class heavy cruiser commissioned into the United States Navy in 1934. She saw extensive service during World War II, participating in major engagements such as the Battle of the Coral Sea, the Battle of Midway, and the Naval Battle of Guadalcanal. Despite suffering severe damage and losing her bow at Tassafaronga, she was skillfully repaired and returned to action, continuing to serve throughout the Pacific campaign. By war’s end, USS New Orleans earned 17 battle stars, marking her as one of the most decorated US ships of the conflict.
Historical Facts
•
Flagship at Pearl Harbor: USS New Orleans (CA-32) was present at Pearl Harbor during the Japanese attack on December 7, 1941. She survived the attack largely unscathed, though she was undergoing maintenance and had limited power.
•
Heavy Damage at Tassafaronga: During the Battle of Tassafaronga (November 30, 1942), the cruiser was struck by a Japanese torpedo that blew off her bow. Despite this, the crew managed to save the ship and sail it backwards to safety.
•
Emergency Bow Repairs: After losing her bow, USS New Orleans’ crew fashioned a temporary “bow” from coconut logs and debris at Tulagi, allowing her to sail 2,000 miles to Australia for permanent repairs.
•
Multiple Battle Stars: She earned a total of 17 battle stars for her service in World War II, making her one of the most decorated US ships of the war.
•
Part of the "New Orleans-class": USS New Orleans was the lead ship of her class, which included several other notable cruisers that served in the Pacific during WWII.
•
Survivor of Several Battles: She participated in key battles such as Coral Sea, Midway, Guadalcanal, the Gilbert and Marshall Islands, and the Philippine Sea.
•
Proud Motto: Her ship's motto was “Noli Me Tangere” (Latin for “Touch Me Not”), reflecting her fighting spirit and resilience.
•
Role in the Battle of Midway: USS New Orleans provided critical anti-aircraft cover for aircraft carriers during the pivotal Battle of Midway in June 1942.
•
Presidential Connection: Her sponsor at launching was Cora S. Jahncke, the daughter of then Assistant Secretary of the Navy, Ernest L. Jahncke, linking her to a prominent naval family.
•
Decommissioned and Scrapped: After the war, USS New Orleans was decommissioned in 1947 and eventually sold for scrap in 1959, ending her storied and heroic career.
