Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Today in History: USS Missouri decommissioned, marking end of battleship era

3/31/2026

50 4

Summary

Story summary

On March 31, 1992, the USS Missouri, the last active battleship of the United States Navy, was decommissioned in Long Beach, California. Launched in 1944, the Iowa-class battleship played a significant role in World War II, famously serving as the site for Japan's surrender, marking the end of the conflict.

1 of 1

Story summary

On March 31, 1992, the USS Missouri, the last active battleship of the United States Navy, was decommissioned in Long Beach, California. Launched in 1944, the Iowa-class battleship played a significant role in World War II, famously serving as the site for Japan's surrender, marking the end of the conflict.