The USS California (BB-44) was a Tennessee-class battleship that served in the United States Navy during World War I and World War II. Commissioned in August 1921, the ship underwent modernization in the 1930s to update its armament and technology. During the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, the USS California was hit by torpedoes and bombs, resulting in significant damage and casualties among its crew. However, the ship was salvaged and repaired, returning to active duty in 1944. The USS California participated in various operations in the Pacific Theater during World War II, including the battles of Saipan, Tinian, Guam, and Leyte Gulf. The ship's firepower and support were crucial in these engagements. After the war, the USS California was decommissioned in 1947 and ultimately sold for scrap in 1959. The ship's service history, from its early years to its involvement in major naval battles, reflects the technological advancements and strategic importance of battleships during the first half of the 20th century. The USS California's resilience in surviving the attack on Pearl Harbor and its subsequent contributions to the war effort highlight the bravery and dedication of its crew. The ship remains a significant part of naval history, symbolizing the strength and sacrifices of the U.S. Navy during a critical period of global conflict.

This description has been generated using GPT-3.5-TURBO based on the Vessel's wikidata information and then modified by ShipIndex.org staff.