The USS Shaw exploding during the Japanese raid on Pearl Harbor, December 7, 1941. 80-G-16871. (National Archives)
Today’s Pic of the Day takes us back to one of the most pivotal moments in American history: the attack on Pearl Harbor.
As I was surfing the web, looking for a standout photo, I came across this incredible black-and-white shot of the USS Shaw (DD-373), a US Navy destroyer, caught in the middle of a massive explosion.
The dramatic scene is framed by palm fronds at the top and a pier in the foreground, capturing the sheer chaos and destruction of December 7, 1941—an image that powerfully paints the intensity of the attack and the sudden, violent force of war.
A Moment Frozen in Time
In this photo, you can see the USS Shaw erupting into a massive fireball after its forward magazine was hit during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.
Thick smoke rises into the sky while bright flames and debris shoot out in all directions.
You can almost feel the power of the blast, showing just how intense and unexpected the attack was for those who experienced it.
This explosion, caught in this iconic shot, became one of the most unforgettable images from that day, capturing the shock and chaos of Pearl Harbor.
Tracing the USS Shaw’s Path Through History
Before her dramatic moment at Pearl Harbor, the USS Shaw had already made a name for herself in US naval history.
Today’s Pic of the Day takes us back to one of the most pivotal moments in American history: the attack on Pearl Harbor.
As I was surfing the web, looking for a standout photo, I came across this incredible black-and-white shot of the USS Shaw (DD-373), a US Navy destroyer, caught in the middle of a massive explosion.
The dramatic scene is framed by palm fronds at the top and a pier in the foreground, capturing the sheer chaos and destruction of December 7, 1941—an image that powerfully paints the intensity of the attack and the sudden, violent force of war.
A Moment Frozen in Time
In this photo, you can see the USS Shaw erupting into a massive fireball after its forward magazine was hit during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.
Thick smoke rises into the sky while bright flames and debris shoot out in all directions.
You can almost feel the power of the blast, showing just how intense and unexpected the attack was for those who experienced it.
This explosion, caught in this iconic shot, became one of the most unforgettable images from that day, capturing the shock and chaos of Pearl Harbor.
Tracing the USS Shaw’s Path Through History
Before her dramatic moment at Pearl Harbor, the USS Shaw had already made a name for herself in US naval history.
Commissioned in 1936, Shaw was a Mahan-class destroyer named after John Shaw, a bold naval officer from the early 1800s known for his fearless leadership during the Quasi-War with France and the Barbary Wars.
Built for speed and agility, the Shaw was perfect for escorting larger ships and taking on submarines.
In her early days, Shaw took part in countless training exercises and fleet maneuvers, helping her crew sharpen their skills and test the ship’s capabilities.
When World War II kicked off in Europe, Shaw and her sister ships were sent on patrol and escort duties across the Atlantic and Pacific, getting ready for what looked like a brewing global conflict.
By the time the attack on Pearl Harbor happened, Shaw was in the middle of a routine overhaul in dry dock, which unfortunately made her an easy target during the surprise air raid.
USS Shaw (DD-373) wrecked in floating drydock YFD-2 on December 7, 1941. (Wikimedia Commons)
Despite the massive destruction, Shaw’s story didn’t end there.
Against all odds, her engine and some key parts survived, allowing her to be salvaged and repaired, ready to fight another day.
A Remarkable Comeback
The USS Shaw’s comeback after Pearl Harbor really shows the grit and resourcefulness of the US Navy.
Just months after that devastating explosion, Shaw wasn’t just repaired—she was back in action, taking part in some of the most critical battles in the Pacific during World War II, like the Coral Sea and Guadalcanal.
Shaw’s time in the war was all about versatility and toughness. She did it all—escorting convoys, patrolling vast stretches of ocean, and supporting amphibious landings.
She proved her worth over and over again, earning 11 battle stars for her efforts, which says a lot about her important role in the Allied war effort.
USS Shaw (DD-373) after bow replacement, circa 1942. (Wikimedia Commons)
And Shaw wasn’t alone in this remarkable comeback story.
Other ships damaged in the Pearl Harbor attack, like the USS West Virginia (BB-48), USS California (BB-44), and USS Nevada (BB-36), also fought their way back from ruin.
These ships, after being heavily damaged or sunk, were salvaged and repaired, going on to serve valiantly in crucial battles throughout the Pacific.
Their resilience, just like Shaw’s, demonstrated the incredible determination of the American Sailors to get back in the fight, no matter what.
Check out “How They Salvaged Pearl Harbor: The Terrible First Day (1/4)” to see the incredible story of recovery and resilience after the attack!
Final Thoughts: A Tribute to Courage
Looking at this photo now, it really hits home—it’s a strong reminder of the guts and sacrifice of those who were at Pearl Harbor and fought through World War II.
The explosion of the USS Shaw isn’t just a shocking image of war’s destruction; it’s also a symbol of hope and determination.
Even after losing so much, there was this relentless drive to pick up the pieces, keep fighting, and come back even stronger.
This shot captures a moment of real tragedy and incredible bravery, showing the chaos and resilience of the US Navy on one of the toughest days in American history.
As we think about this moment, we honor those who faced the unimaginable and remember the powerful legacy they left behind.
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Brandon Webb former Navy SEAL, Bestselling Author and Editor-in-Chief
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