350920 USS CLEVELAND CL-55

The USS Cleveland (CL-55) was an American light cruiser, the keel of which was laid in July 1940, was launched in November 1941, and was finally completed in June 1942. The total length of the ship at the time of launching was 186 m, width 20.2 m, with a standard displacement of approx. 11,900 tons. The maximum speed was up to 32-33 knots. The armament of the unit at the time of launching mainly consisted of: 12 152 mm anti-aircraft guns, 12 127 mm anti-aircraft guns and 8 40 mm anti-aircraft guns. The ship could also operate with 4 seaplanes. USS Cleveland (CL-55) was the first of the Cleveland-class cruisers. Units of this type were created as a development of the earlier Brooklyn class, with an even greater range and significantly enhanced anti-aircraft armament. Units of this type also received modern fire control systems and radars. The Cleveland class also proved to be the most numerous class of US Navy light cruisers during World War II! The USS Cleveland (CL-55) was constructed at the New York Shipbuilding Corporation in Camden, NJ. The unit, shortly after entering service, was dispatched to the Solomon Islands, and in March 1943 took part in the Battle of the Blackett Strait. On the other hand, in November 1943, the USS Cleveland (CL-55) took part in an excellent way in the Battle of Empress Augusta's Bay. In the period from June to August 1944, the unit operated in the Marianas area, also taking part in the Battle of the Philippine Sea, and then supported the Allied landing operations in the Philippines. In the summer of 1945, the unit also carried out raids against Japanese merchant shipping, or rather its remnants. USS Cleveland was awarded 13 Battle Stars during World War II. It was withdrawn from service as early as 1947, and in 1960 it was scrapped.