USS New Orleans (CA-32)

• 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.