Intro
Uncover the history of USS Essex CV-9, a Yorktown-class aircraft carrier that played a pivotal role in World War II. Discover 5 fascinating facts about its construction, combat deployments, and notable battles, including the Philippine Sea and Leyte Gulf, and learn about its significance in naval aviation and American military history.
The USS Essex CV-9, a legendary aircraft carrier that played a significant role in the Pacific Theater during World War II. Commissioned in 1942, the Essex was the lead ship of the Essex-class aircraft carriers, which were designed to be larger and more advanced than their predecessors. Here are five fascinating facts about the USS Essex CV-9:
Design and Construction
The USS Essex CV-9 was built at the Newport News Shipbuilding Company in Virginia, with its keel laid on April 28, 1941. The ship was designed to be 872 feet long, with a beam of 93 feet and a draft of 28 feet. The Essex had a displacement of over 27,000 tons and was powered by eight Babcock & Wilcox boilers, which produced 150,000 horsepower. The ship's flight deck was 872 feet long and 108 feet wide, providing ample space for aircraft operations.
Armament and Aircraft
The USS Essex CV-9 was equipped with an impressive array of armaments, including 12 5-inch guns, 32 40mm anti-aircraft guns, and 46 20mm anti-aircraft guns. The ship's air group consisted of 90 aircraft, including F4F Wildcat fighters, SBD Dauntless dive bombers, and TBM Avenger torpedo bombers. The Essex's air group played a crucial role in the ship's success, providing air support for ground troops and conducting strikes against enemy shipping and installations.
World War II Service
The USS Essex CV-9 saw extensive service during World War II, participating in numerous campaigns and battles. The ship's first major operation was the invasion of Tarawa in November 1943, where its air group provided close air support for ground troops. The Essex also participated in the Marshall Islands campaign, the Mariana Islands campaign, and the Philippines campaign, among others. The ship's air group conducted numerous strikes against enemy shipping and installations, sinking several Japanese warships and merchant vessels.
Battle of the Philippine Sea
One of the USS Essex CV-9's most notable battles was the Battle of the Philippine Sea, fought on June 19-20, 1944. During this battle, the Essex's air group conducted strikes against the Japanese Mobile Fleet, sinking several enemy warships and damaging others. The battle was a decisive victory for the United States, and it marked a significant turning point in the war in the Pacific.
Post-War Service and Decommissioning
After the end of World War II, the USS Essex CV-9 continued to serve in the United States Navy, participating in various peacekeeping and humanitarian missions. The ship was modernized in the 1950s, with the addition of new radar systems and jet aircraft. However, with the advent of newer, more advanced aircraft carriers, the Essex was eventually decommissioned on June 30, 1969. The ship was scrapped in 1975, bringing an end to a long and distinguished career.
Legacy
The USS Essex CV-9 played a significant role in the Allied victory in World War II, and its legacy continues to be felt today. The ship's air group conducted numerous strikes against enemy shipping and installations, and its aircraft provided close air support for ground troops. The Essex's service during World War II is a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of its crew, and its legacy will always be remembered as a significant contributor to the Allied victory.
Gallery of USS Essex CV-9 Images:
USS Essex CV-9 Image Gallery
We hope you enjoyed this article about the USS Essex CV-9. This legendary aircraft carrier played a significant role in the Allied victory in World War II, and its legacy continues to be felt today. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below.