NORFOLK, Va. — A somber ceremony took place at Naval Station Norfolk to honor the lives lost aboard the USS Iowa. The USS Iowa Memorial at Iowa Point served as the gathering spot for dozens who came together to pay their respects. While this ceremony was not the first of its kind, it held significant meaning for all in attendance.
On April 19, 1989, a tragic explosion in gun turret two of the USS Iowa resulted in the loss of Mary Messina’s brother and 46 other sailors. The memory of that day still evokes raw emotions, with Messina recalling the heartbreaking moment she learned of her brother’s fate. The pain and loss felt by the families of those sailors continue to resonate after 33 years.
During the ceremony, family members of the fallen sailors had the opportunity to share their thoughts and emotions. One woman expressed how the tragedy had inadvertently brought them all closer together, forming a bond akin to family. The presence of Iowa veterans added a poignant layer to the event, as one veteran recounted the unsettling experience of responding to the explosion in the turret.
The USS Iowa holds a significant place in naval history, having seen action in World War II and the Korean War. Following its decommissioning in 1990, the battleship found new life as a Navy ship museum in California. In 2023, a gun barrel from the USS Iowa was relocated to Fort Story after a meticulous restoration effort, serving as a lasting tribute to the ship and its crew.
The ongoing struggles and frustrations faced by many crew members and their families were highlighted during the ceremony. A heartfelt letter from an Iowa veteran to the Chief of Naval Operations underscored the need for continued support and recognition for those affected by the tragedy. It is a reminder to never forget the sacrifices made by the crew of the USS Iowa and to keep their memories alive in prayers and hearts, as voiced by veteran Mark Gustafson.