Ted, about 35 years ago (in 1986 and 1987) I was in Norfolk, VA and was able to visit on the NAS (Naval Air Station) there the sister ship of the USS 'North Carolina': the USS 'Iowa' (BB-61). While the USS "North Carolina' is depicted in her original state, the USS 'Iowa' was already modernized then (initiative for that was taken by your former president, the late Ronald Reagan). For that reason some smaller guns smaller in diameter than the impressive 16" 'turrets' were replaced by the 'Harpoon' sea skimming surface-to-surface missiles and the 'Phalanx' CIWS (Close-In-Weapon-System). Although I'm a pretty tall guy, in front on the most forward turret I felt myself myself like a small bug on a tall branch, (😁). Although it's meanwhile along time ago, I'll never forget this tour.
Your excellent picture revived my memory. Thanks for that!

Superb perspective of this impressive ship. So glad it was saved! tigs=^..^=

Oh man, I thought I commented on this already:):) Awesome and powerful Ted. Love it:)

USS North Carolina (BB-55) is the lead ship of the North Carolina class of fast battleships, the first vessel of the type built for the United States Navy. Built under the Washington Treaty system, North Carolina*s design was limited in displacement and armament, though the United States used a clause in the Second London Naval Treaty to increase the main battery from the original armament of twelve 14 inch (356 mm) guns to nine 16 inch (406 mm) guns. The ship was laid down in 1937 and completed in April 1941, while the United States was still neutral during World War II. The North Carolina was involved in numerous campaigns and battles, from Guadalcanal to Iwo Jima, and the subsequent return of troops to the United States, an operation dubbed *Magic Carpet Ride*.

From a Navy vet to an Air Force vet, Ted, an impressive photo of an equally impressive ship of the line.

-nik