USS MISSISSIPPI SHIPS
This page is dedicated to the 5 great ships to bear the name of USS MISSISSIPPI. While our current association is from the nuclear cruiser, we welcome alumni from all ships.
1841-1861
Paddle Frigate
The USS MISSISSIPPI paddle frigate served in the Mexican-American War, contributing to the American control of the Mexican coastline and military supply operations. The ship also participated in the Mediterranean Sea cruises from 1849 to 1851. However, it ran aground in 1851 and sank with the loss of 64 KIA during the Civil War.
1908-1914
BB-23
The USS Mississippi (BB-23) was a 13,000-ton pre-dreadnought battleship, the lead ship of her class, commissioned into the U.S. Navy in February 1908. Built in Philadelphia, she served primarily along the U.S. East Coast and the Caribbean, showcasing naval technology and supporting military operations, including landing Marines in Cuba in 1912. Notably, she played a pioneering role in naval aviation, transporting seaplanes and aviators to Vera Cruz, Mexico, during the Navy’s first combat aviation deployment in 1914. Due to her limited size and capabilities compared to newer battleships, she was sold to Greece in July 1914, renamed Kilkis, and served in coastal defense until being sunk by German dive bombers in 1941
1917-1956
BB-41
The USS Mississippi (BB-41) was a New Mexico-class battleship commissioned in December 1917, built at Newport News, Virginia. Armed with twelve 14-inch guns and protected by heavy armor, she served extensively in both World Wars. During World War I, she remained in North American waters for training, but in World War II, she played a crucial role in the Pacific, supporting amphibious assaults in the Gilbert and Marshall Islands, Leyte, Peleliu, and Okinawa. She participated in the historic Battle of Surigao Strait—the last battleship-to-battleship engagement in history. After the war, she was converted into a gunnery training and weapons testing ship, designated AG-128, and helped pioneer missile technology including the RIM-2 Terrier. Decommissioned in 1956, the Mississippi closed out nearly four decades of distinguished service.
1978-1997
CGN-40
The USS Mississippi (CGN-40) was a Virginia-class nuclear-powered guided missile cruiser commissioned in August 1978. Designed for long-range strike and air defense missions, she was equipped with advanced radar systems, surface-to-air missiles, and anti-submarine warfare capabilities. Powered by twin nuclear reactors, she could operate for extended periods without refueling, making her a formidable presence in the U.S. Navy’s fleet. Throughout her service, Mississippi participated in numerous deployments, including operations in the Mediterranean and Persian Gulf, supporting carrier battle groups and enforcing maritime security. She was decommissioned in July 1997 after nearly two decades of service, marking the end of an era for nuclear-powered cruisers in the Navy.
2012 -
SSN-782
The USS Mississippi (SSN-782) is a Virginia-class nuclear-powered fast attack submarine commissioned into the U.S. Navy in June 2012. Built by Huntington Ingalls Industries in partnership with General Dynamics Electric Boat, she is designed for a wide range of missions including anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, and strike operations using Tomahawk cruise missiles. With advanced sonar systems, stealth capabilities, and a reactor that allows her to operate submerged for extended periods without refueling, Mississippi represents the cutting edge of undersea warfare. She has participated in numerous deployments across the globe, supporting national security objectives and strengthening allied partnerships. As part of the Navy’s silent service, SSN-782 continues to play a vital role in maintaining maritime dominance.