Introduction to the USS Hornet CV 12
The USS Hornet CV 12 is one of the most legendary aircraft carriers in the history of the United States Navy. Commissioned in 1943, the Hornet played a significant role in World War II, participating in some of the most pivotal battles in the Pacific Theater. With a remarkable record of achievements, the USS Hornet CV 12 is considered one of the most iconic warships of the 20th century.
Design and Construction
The USS Hornet CV 12 was the eighth aircraft carrier of the Yorktown-class, designed to be faster and more maneuverable than its predecessors. Built by the Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company in Virginia, the Hornet was constructed in just 16 months, with its keel laid down on September 25, 1939. The ship was launched on December 14, 1940, and commissioned on October 29, 1943.
The Hornet was 824 feet (251 meters) long, with a beam of 93 feet (28 meters) and a draft of 28 feet (8.5 meters). The ship had a displacement of 20,000 tons and a top speed of 32.5 knots (60 km/h). The Hornet was equipped with three aircraft elevators, two catapults, and a range of anti-aircraft guns, including 12 x 5-inch (127 mm) guns, 32 x 40 mm guns, and 46 x 20 mm guns.
World War II Service
The USS Hornet CV 12 began its World War II service in November 1943, when it joined the Pacific Fleet. The ship played a significant role in several key battles, including:
- The Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands: On October 26, 1942, the Hornet was part of a task force that engaged a Japanese fleet off the Santa Cruz Islands. Although the Hornet was heavily damaged, it managed to sink several Japanese ships, including the aircraft carrier Shokaku.
- The Battle of Midway: In June 1942, the Hornet was part of a task force that defeated a Japanese fleet at the Battle of Midway. The Hornet’s aircraft played a crucial role in sinking four Japanese aircraft carriers, including the Akagi, Kaga, Soryu, and Hiryu.
- The Gilbert and Marshall Islands Campaign: In February 1944, the Hornet supported the invasion of the Gilbert and Marshall Islands, providing air cover and close air support to ground troops.
🚨 Note: The USS Hornet CV 12 earned seven battle stars for its service in World War II.
Post-War Service
After the war, the USS Hornet CV 12 underwent a major modernization program, which included the installation of a new island, a longer flight deck, and improved anti-submarine warfare capabilities. The ship was re-commissioned in 1953 and served in the Korean War, providing air support to ground troops.
In the 1960s, the Hornet underwent another major modernization program, which included the installation of a new angled flight deck and improved electronics. The ship served in the Vietnam War, providing air support to ground troops.
Museum Ship
The USS Hornet CV 12 was decommissioned in 1970 and donated to the Naval Air Station Alameda, where it was converted into a museum ship. In 1998, the Hornet was declared a National Historic Landmark and is now part of the USS Hornet Museum.
| Specifications | USS Hornet CV 12 |
|---|---|
| Length | 824 feet (251 meters) |
| Beam | 93 feet (28 meters) |
| Draft | 28 feet (8.5 meters) |
| Displacement | 20,000 tons |
| Top Speed | 32.5 knots (60 km/h) |
Legacy
The USS Hornet CV 12 is one of the most iconic warships of the 20th century, with a remarkable record of achievements in World War II and the Cold War. The ship’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of sailors, airmen, and historians.
The USS Hornet Museum is a testament to the ship’s rich history, with exhibits and artifacts that showcase the Hornet’s service in World War II and the Cold War. Visitors can explore the ship’s flight deck, hangar deck, and island, and learn about the Hornet’s role in shaping the course of history.
In conclusion, the USS Hornet CV 12 is a legendary aircraft carrier that played a significant role in some of the most pivotal battles of the 20th century. With its remarkable record of achievements, the Hornet continues to inspire new generations of sailors, airmen, and historians.
What was the USS Hornet CV 12’s most significant contribution to World War II?
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The USS Hornet CV 12 played a significant role in the Battle of Midway, providing air cover and close air support to ground troops. The Hornet’s aircraft helped sink four Japanese aircraft carriers, including the Akagi, Kaga, Soryu, and Hiryu.
What was the USS Hornet CV 12’s role in the Cold War?
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The USS Hornet CV 12 underwent a major modernization program in the 1960s, which included the installation of a new angled flight deck and improved electronics. The ship served in the Vietnam War, providing air support to ground troops.
Is the USS Hornet CV 12 still operational?
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No, the USS Hornet CV 12 was decommissioned in 1970 and donated to the Naval Air Station Alameda, where it was converted into a museum ship. The ship is now part of the USS Hornet Museum.
Related Terms:
- Northrop Grumman Newport News
- USS Intrepid
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- USS Yorktown CV 10
- USS Hornet CV 12
- Uss hornet cv 12 museum
