USS Florida (BB-30)

USS Florida (BB-30) was the lead ship of her class of dreadnought battleships in the United States Navy. Named for the state of Florida, she was the first ship of the US Navy to be named in her honor. Florida was laid down in March 1909 at the New York Navy Yard, launched in May 1910, and commissioned in September 1911.

As a member of the Florida-class, Florida was armed with ten 12-inch (305 mm) guns in five twin turrets, a significant increase in firepower over pre-dreadnought battleships. She also featured improved armor protection and more powerful engines than previous US battleships.

Florida saw service in World War I, primarily operating with the British Grand Fleet in the North Sea. Her duties included escorting convoys and participating in fleet maneuvers, though she did not engage in major combat. After the war, Florida continued to serve in the Atlantic Fleet, participating in training exercises and goodwill tours.

In 1926, Florida underwent a significant modernization, which included the replacement of her coal-fired boilers with oil-fired ones, improving her speed and efficiency. She also received updated fire-control systems and other improvements.

Under the terms of the London Naval Treaty of 1930, Florida was scheduled for decommissioning. She was decommissioned in February 1931 and stricken from the Naval Vessel Register in April 1931. In October 1932, she was sold for scrapping. Although her active service was relatively brief, Florida represented a significant advancement in American battleship design and played a role in the US Navy's growing power during the early 20th century.