USS West Virginia (BB-48) Fire Against Japanese Aircraft

wwii1349.jpg
Caption: 
USS West Virginia (BB-48) Gunners take aim at Japanese aircraft during the Battle of Leyte Gulf. In this view, two 40-millimeter Bofors gun tubs are controlled by the Mark 51 fire director in the lower center. There is also a 20mm Oerlikon cannon between the two Bofors. Below the Bofors gun tubs are the 5-inch (127-millimeter) dual mounted turrets. These guns could be used against surface targets, shipping, or aircraft.
Caption Written By: 
Jason McDonald
Archive: 
United States Navy
Date Photographed: 
Friday, October 20, 1944
City: 
USS West Virginia (BB-48)
State/Province/Oblast: 
Battle of Leyte Gulf
Country: 
Philippines