Last Battleship: The History, Heroes, and Legacy of the USS Missouri
In partnership with Wreaths Across America Radio, the Battleship Missouri Memorial proudly presents Last Battleship—a podcast series dedicated to preserving the legacy of the USS Missouri and the pivotal moments she witnessed throughout history.
From the end of World War II to her final decommissioning, the "Mighty Mo" served as a symbol of strength, sacrifice, and peace. This series brings her story to life through powerful oral histories, personal reflections, and rare insights from those connected to her storied past.
New episodes launch every Monday through September 2, 2025 offering listeners an intimate look at the people, events, and enduring legacy of one of America’s most iconic battleships.
Join us as we honor the legacy of the USS Missouri, a ship that helped shape the course of history.
Listen below to "Last Battleship: The History, Heroes, and Legacy of the USS Missouri”
Lt. Carl Reisman
June 11, 1920 – May 16, 2019
Carl Reisman proudly served aboard the USS Missouri during 1944 and 1945. Hailing from Atlanta Georgia, Mr. Reisman earned a B.S. in Industrial Management at Georgia School of Technology. After completing four years in the Naval Reserve Officers Training Program, Mr. Reisman received a commission as an Ensign. He served in the Navy for over four years.
Lt. Reisman had the rare opportunity of commissioning three ships: the USS Columbia, USS Iowa, and USS Missouri. As a gunnery officer, he rose to the rank of Lieutenant Commander and earned distinction for recommending the addition of two 20 mm machine guns to the bow of every battleship.
After the war, Mr. Reisman returned home to work in his father’s business Surgical Selling Company. He later co-founded Tri-anim Health Services.
A devoted family man, Mr. Reisman shared 41 loving years with his first wife, Betty Scholer, and was later blessed with 29 years of marriage to Claire Wertheim Gross, who preceded him in death.
To many, he was more than a mentor or friend—he was family, a true Southern gentleman whose kindness and integrity touched countless lives.