USS Texas, Houston

Anchored in the bustling city of Houston, the USS Texas stands as a proud testament to America's naval history. This historic battleship, with a hull number BB-35, is a veteran of both World Wars, having been commissioned in 1914. Today, it serves not in the heat of battle, but as a silent guardian of the past, offering visitors a glimpse into the life at sea during some of the most pivotal moments of the 20th century.

The USS Texas is the last of the dreadnought class ships, a breed of powerful battleships characterized by their heavy armor and large-caliber guns. During her active service, she played significant roles, including providing gunfire support during the Normandy landings. Since her retirement from active duty in 1948, she has been moored at the San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site, near Houston.

This floating museum is a National Historic Landmark and is also one of the first battleships to be preserved as a memorial ship. Visitors to the USS Texas can explore the ship's decks, bridge, and living quarters, getting an authentic feel for the sailor's experience during wartime. The ship's storied past is evident in every rivet and gun turret, with exhibits and interpretive tours that dive deep into her storied past.

The USS Texas is more than just a relic; it is an educational resource that offers a tangible connection to the sacrifices and triumphs of the servicemen who operated her. The ship is open to the public, allowing for self-guided tours that take you through the mess halls, officer's quarters, engine room, and more. It's a rare opportunity to step back in time and walk the same steel corridors as the sailors who were once stationed aboard this mighty vessel.