In 1934, the USS Arizona, a Pennsylvania-class battleship, was a proud member of the United States Navy’s Battle Fleet, typically operating in the Pacific. Life aboard revolved around training exercises and drills, including gunnery practice and tactical maneuvers, preparing the crew for potential conflicts. Although the Great Depression was still impacting the nation, the ship’s presence was a symbol of American strength and a source of employment for hundreds of sailors. The atmosphere was generally one of routine and preparedness, unaware of the tragic fate awaiting her just a few years later at Pearl Harbor.