On December 7, 1941, amidst the chaos and destruction that enveloped Pearl Harbor, the USS Utah was one of the first vessels targeted in the Japanese assault.

Commanders Genda and Fuchida, who orchestrated the attack, had instructed their pilots to bypass the non-combat ship.

One torpedo slammed into the UTAH’s port side at 8:01 a.m. as the crew raised the flag on the fantail.

Some minutes later a second hit the same area.

As water rapidly filled the ship, it began to list.

Despite Lt. Commander S.S. Isquith’s orders to evacuate and the crew’s scramble to safety.

Tragically, Utah listed to and capsized after its mooring lines snapped at about 8:12 a.m.

Amid the tumult, an astounding act of bravery unfolded: Machinist Mate S.S. Szymanski risked his life to cut open the hull and rescue trapped crew members, for which he was later awarded the Navy Cross.

The UTAH was declared to be temporarily out of service — “in ordinary” — on December 29, while salvage teams under Captain Wallin tried to determine if it could be salvaged.

The casualties were heavy; 58 crew members perished, while six officers and 52 enlisted men were lost—some trapped on board and others cut down by strafing aircraft.

One particularly poignant example of heroism was Chief Watertender Peter Tomich, who remained at his station, ensuring others could escape, ultimately sacrificing his life in the act.

Today, the USS Utah Memorial stands as a stark contrast to the bustling activity at the Arizona Memorial.

While the latter attracts hordes of visitors annually, the Utah Memorial remains relatively obscure, tucked away on the western shore of Ford Island, with no regular public access.

Though the USS Utah may not have the fame of other Pearl Harbor ships, it is imperative to remember her contribution and the lessons learned from her sinking.

Her story underscores the courage and resilience of those who served aboard her.