Well that seems to be a re - accuring theme in Allied ship construction. For example British carriers had little to no torpedo defence! Also look at there anti - bomb defences such as HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Repulse.

And as for the comment "Damned expensive reminders" nothing is too expensive when it comes to holding our past well into the future. Look at what the city of Fall River, Massecheusets did to the USS Massecheusets. They have her as a memorial. That is an honor for a ship that has served its time in battle now it can serve its time as a keep sake!