USS Baltimore CA-68 was a heavy cruiser of the United States Navy that served during World War II and the Korean War. It was the lead ship of the Baltimore-class cruisers and was named after the city of Baltimore, Maryland. The construction of USS Baltimore began in 1941 and it was commissioned in April 1943. It measured 673 feet in length and had a displacement of over 13,600 tons. The ship was armed with nine 8-inch guns, twelve 5-inch guns, and numerous anti-aircraft guns, making it a formidable presence on the seas. During its service in World War II, USS Baltimore participated in several major naval operations, including the Battle of Kwajalein, Battle of the Philippine Sea, and the Battle of Leyte Gulf. It also provided support for landings in the Marshall Islands and the Philippines. The ship was heavily engaged in combat and earned nine battle stars for its service. After the end of World War II, USS Baltimore underwent an extensive modernization process in 1948, which included the installation of new radar and anti-aircraft weapons. It also received a helicopter deck, making it one of the first US Navy ships to have such a feature. In 1951, USS Baltimore was deployed to the Korean War, where it served as a flagship for the 7th Fleet. It provided crucial support for amphibious landings and conducted shore bombardments against enemy targets. The ship also played a role in the evacuation of United Nations forces from the North Korean port of Hungnam. After the Korean War, USS Baltimore continued to serve in the US Navy until it was decommissioned in 1956. It was then transferred to the Greek Navy and renamed HS Helle. The ship served in the Greek Navy until 1993, when it was finally decommissioned and scrapped. USS Baltimore's service in both World War II and the Korean War exemplified its strength, versatility, and resilience. Its crewmembers, numbering over 1,200 during its peak, were praised for their bravery and dedication to their duties. The ship also played a significant role in shaping naval warfare tactics and technologies, particularly in the areas of anti-aircraft defense and helicopter operations. Today, the memory of USS Baltimore CA-68 lives on through various naval memorials and museums, as well as the stories and experiences of its crewmembers. Its legacy serves as a reminder of the sacrifices and contributions made by the US Navy in defending the nation's interests and maintaining peace and stability in the world.
