So, You Want to See a Sub in Oklahoma? You've Come to the Right Place (Landlocked Place, That Is)
Oklahoma: land of cowboys, twisters, and... submarines? Believe it or not, this central state boasts a fascinating piece of naval history, permanently docked (well, more like parked) on dry land.
What Submarine Is In Oklahoma |
The USS Batfish: A Sub With Bite (Though Not Literally)
No, Oklahoma isn't hiding a secret underwater base (although that would be pretty cool). The sub in question is the USS Batfish (SS-310), a WWII veteran with a fierce reputation and an even fiercer nickname. This Balao-class submarine wasn't named after the adorable cartoon character, but rather its namesake, a type of anglerfish known for its aggressive hunting style.
The Batfish patrolled the Pacific during the war, racking up an impressive record:
- 14 Japanese ships sunk (that's a lot of enemy boats taking a permanent nap)
- 3 enemy submarines sent to Davy Jones' Locker (not exactly a friendly neighborhood for subs)
- 9 Battle Stars (think of them as participation trophies, but way more badass)
After its service, the Batfish found a new home in 1972, not in the ocean depths, but on the Arkansas River in Muskogee, Oklahoma. That's right, a saltwater veteran enjoying its retirement on a freshwater river.
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Visiting the Batfish: A Dry Docking Experience (Land Ahoy!)
So, you're itching to see this piece of history for yourself? Here's what you need to know:
- The USS Batfish & War Memorial Park is open to the public, offering tours (exterior only, but still pretty neat) and exhibits about the submarine and Oklahoma's wartime contributions.
- While you can't explore the inside of the Batfish (maybe next time they invent shrinking technology), you can still get a good look at this impressive vessel and learn about its fascinating story.
Pro Tip: If you're planning a visit, brush up on your submarine knowledge! Impress your friends with fun facts about the Batfish's capabilities and wartime achievements.
So, Oklahoma and Submarines: An Unexpected Duo
Who knew Oklahoma would be a destination for submarine enthusiasts (or just fans of cool historical stuff)? The USS Batfish serves as a reminder that even in the most unexpected places, you can find hidden gems of history.
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Frequently Asked Landlocked-Submarine Questions:
How to get to the USS Batfish & War Memorial Park?
The park is located in Muskogee, Oklahoma. A quick web search for directions will get you there in no time!
How much does it cost to visit the USS Batfish?
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There is a small admission fee to enter the park and tour the Batfish.
How long does it take to tour the USS Batfish?
Since you can't explore the interior, the tour itself is relatively quick. However, you can easily spend a few hours learning about the Batfish and exploring the other exhibits in the park.
QuickTip: Reflect before moving to the next part.
Are there any other cool things to see around the USS Batfish?
The park also features military vehicles, a Walk of Honor for veterans, and various historical exhibits.
Is there anything else like the USS Batfish in Oklahoma?
Not exactly. But hey, Oklahoma has a lot to offer! You can explore its rich Native American heritage, visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, or just enjoy some good ol' fashioned Southern hospitality.