USS Hoga (YT-146)

Step aboard the USS Hoga, a vessel whose storied past has seen her transition from a humble harbor tug to a heroic figure in American naval history. Now residing at the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum in Little Rock, Arkansas, the USS Hoga offers visitors a unique glimpse into the dramatic events of World War II and the vital role this small yet mighty ship played in the aftermath of the Pearl Harbor attack.

The Hero of Pearl Harbor

The USS Hoga, a Woban-class district harbor tug, was authorized on June 18, 1940, and built by the Consolidated Shipbuilding Corporation in Morris Heights, New York. She was launched on December 31, 1940, and christened Hoga, a Sioux Indian word for fish. Placed in service on May 22, 1941, at Norfolk, Virginia, Hoga was assigned to the 14th Naval District at Pearl Harbor, arriving there via the Panama Canal, San Diego, and San Pedro.

On the fateful morning of December 7, 1941, Hoga was moored at the Yard Craft Dock when Japanese forces launched their surprise attack on Pearl Harbor. Within ten minutes of the first strike, Hoga was underway, steaming into the harbor to assist the burning ships along Battleship Row. Her first heroic act was to help pull the damaged repair ship USS Vestal away from the shattered hulk of the USS Arizona, preventing further catastrophe.

Hoga's crew then turned their efforts to the minelayer USS Oglala, which had been damaged by a torpedo detonation against the cruiser USS Helena. As Hoga assisted Oglala, the battleship USS Nevada made a desperate run for the open sea, only to be targeted by Japanese planes. Hoga and another tug, YT-130, worked to pull Nevada free and move her to the western side of the harbor entrance, where she was grounded to avoid sinking in the channel.

For the next 72 hours, Hoga and her crew fought fires on the USS Maryland, USS Tennessee, and the USS Arizona, showcasing their bravery and resilience. Their efforts did not go unrecognized; in February 1942, Admiral Chester Nimitz commended Hoga's skipper and crew for their distinguished service and disregard for personal safety during the attack.

Fireboat Service in Oakland

After World War II, Hoga's journey continued as she was transferred on loan to the Port of Oakland in 1948 for use as a fireboat. Renamed Port of Oakland (later changed to City of Oakland), she served the bustling port for 40 years, combating numerous shipboard fires, waterfront blazes, and even rescuing individuals in the water.

One notable event in Hoga's fireboat career was her role in fighting a shipboard fire on the freighter Hawaiian Rancher the day after her formal commissioning. She also served as a tour boat for President Jimmy Carter during a visit to the port in 1980, where the President playfully aimed the fireboat's bow monitor at the press boat.

Despite her success as a fireboat, the decline of large wooden warehouses and piers, improved shipboard fire control, and the increasing presence of smaller pleasure craft in the harbor led to the consideration of a smaller, more maneuverable vessel for the port's needs. In 1994, Hoga was returned to the Navy and joined the National Defense Reserve Fleet.

A National Historic Landmark

In 1989, Hoga was declared a National Historic Landmark, recognizing her significant contributions during the Pearl Harbor attack. After several years of being available for donation, the Navy selected the City of North Little Rock, Arkansas, to be her new home.

Today, the USS Hoga is a museum ship at the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum, where visitors can explore her storied past and learn about her heroic actions during one of the most pivotal moments in American history. The museum offers guided tours that provide an in-depth look at Hoga's service during World War II, her time as a fireboat in Oakland, and her eventual journey to becoming a cherished historical artifact.

Exploring the USS Hoga

As you step aboard the USS Hoga, you'll be transported back in time to the harrowing days of World War II. The museum's knowledgeable guides will lead you through the various compartments of the ship, sharing stories of bravery and resilience. You'll have the opportunity to see the firefighting equipment that Hoga used to combat the flames at Pearl Harbor, as well as the tools and machinery that kept her running during her years of service.

One of the highlights of the tour is the chance to stand on the deck where Hoga's crew worked tirelessly to save lives and protect their fellow sailors. The museum also features exhibits that delve into the broader context of the Pearl Harbor attack, providing a comprehensive understanding of the events that unfolded on that fateful day.

The USS Hoga is not just a relic of the past; she is a testament to the courage and determination of those who served aboard her. Her presence at the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during World War II and the enduring spirit of the American people.

In conclusion, a visit to the USS Hoga in Little Rock, Arkansas, is a journey through history that offers a unique perspective on the events of Pearl Harbor and the vital role this small but mighty tug played in the aftermath. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply looking for an engaging and educational experience, the USS Hoga is a must-see attraction that will leave a lasting impression on all who step aboard.