The heavy cruiser USS LOS ANGELES (CA-135) was commissioned in July, 1945, and her construction was entirely funded through sales of bonds purchased by Los Angeles residents. The LOS ANGELES operated with the 7th Fleet off the coast of China, and during the Korean War served as flagship for Rear Admiral Arleigh A. Burke. She received five battle stars for Korean War service. Throughout her career, the USS LOS ANGELES held special significance for her namesake city, receiving a warm welcome during her visits to the Port of Los Angeles.
In 1963, LOS ANGELES was decommissioned. Sold for scrap in 1975, she was towed to the salvage yard at the National Metal and Steel Corporation on Terminal Island (in the Port of Los Angels). Concerned local citizens, including the founders of the Los Angeles Maritime Museum, saved her mainmast, anchors, and bow peak. These items are now monuments on permanent display in John S. Gibson park.
The USS Los Angeles CA-135 Association, founded in 1977, is the official organization of her former officers and crew. Although the ship is gone, her history lives on at the Maritime Museum. Through the years, many of the members have donated their photographs and artifacts to the Museum. A new exhibit featuring these items is now installed in the Museum’s Navy Hall. This project is made possible through the generous support of the Association.
Click here to learn more about the new exhibit!
