Uss Hornet Cv 12

The USS Hornet CV-12 is one of the most iconic and historic aircraft carriers in the United States Navy. Commissioned in 1943, the Hornet played a significant role in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. The ship's impressive career spanned over three decades, earning it numerous awards and accolades. In this article, we will delve into the history of the USS Hornet CV-12, its design and construction, its wartime service, and its legacy.

The USS Hornet CV-12 was the eighth ship to bear the name Hornet, and it was built by the Newport News Shipbuilding Company in Virginia. The ship was launched on August 30, 1943, and commissioned on November 29, 1943. The Hornet was an Essex-class aircraft carrier, which was the most numerous class of fleet carriers built by the United States during World War II. The Essex-class carriers were designed to be fast, maneuverable, and heavily armed, with a large flight deck and a hangar deck that could accommodate up to 100 aircraft.

Design and Construction

The USS Hornet CV-12 was 872 feet long and 147 feet wide, with a displacement of over 27,000 tons. The ship was powered by eight boilers and four steam turbines, which produced 150,000 horsepower and gave the ship a top speed of over 30 knots. The Hornet was armed with 12 5-inch guns, 32 40mm anti-aircraft guns, and 46 20mm anti-aircraft guns. The ship's flight deck was 862 feet long and 108 feet wide, and it was equipped with three elevators and two catapults.

The Hornet's aircraft complement consisted of 36 fighter aircraft, 36 dive bombers, and 18 torpedo bombers. The ship's air group was composed of several squadrons, including fighter squadrons, dive bomber squadrons, and torpedo bomber squadrons. The Hornet's aircraft played a crucial role in the ship's wartime service, providing air support for ground troops, attacking enemy ships and installations, and defending the ship against enemy air attacks.

Wartime Service

The USS Hornet CV-12 saw extensive action during World War II, participating in several major battles and campaigns. The ship's first combat operation was the Battle of the Philippine Sea, which took place in June 1944. The Hornet's aircraft played a key role in the battle, sinking several Japanese ships and shooting down numerous enemy aircraft. The ship also participated in the Battle of Leyte Gulf, the Battle of Iwo Jima, and the Battle of Okinawa.

After the war, the Hornet was decommissioned and placed in reserve. However, with the outbreak of the Korean War, the ship was recommissioned and sent to Korea to support United Nations forces. The Hornet's aircraft provided air support for ground troops, attacking enemy positions and supply lines. The ship also participated in several naval battles, including the Battle of the Strait of Formosa.

Vietnam War

The USS Hornet CV-12 also saw action during the Vietnam War, participating in several major operations and campaigns. The ship's aircraft provided air support for ground troops, attacking enemy positions and supply lines. The Hornet also participated in several naval battles, including the Battle of the Gulf of Tonkin.

The Hornet's service during the Vietnam War was marked by several notable events, including the recovery of the Apollo 11 astronauts in 1969. The ship was used as a recovery vessel for the Apollo 11 mission, and it was the Hornet's crew that recovered the astronauts and their command module after they splashed down in the Pacific Ocean.

Legacy

The USS Hornet CV-12 is now a museum ship, docked in Alameda, California. The ship is open to the public and offers guided tours, including self-guided tours of the flight deck and hangar deck. The Hornet is also home to several exhibits and displays, including a collection of historic aircraft and a exhibit on the ship's role in the Apollo 11 mission.

The USS Hornet CV-12 has been the subject of several books, documentaries, and films, including the 1996 film "The Right Stuff," which tells the story of the Apollo 11 mission and the Hornet's role in recovering the astronauts. The ship has also been recognized for its historic significance, including being designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1991.

Preservation Efforts

The USS Hornet CV-12 is preserved and maintained by the USS Hornet Museum, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the ship's history and legacy. The museum offers several programs and events, including guided tours, educational programs, and special events. The Hornet is also home to several living history programs, including reenactments of historic events and demonstrations of historic aircraft.

The USS Hornet CV-12 is an important part of American history and a significant cultural artifact. The ship's legacy continues to inspire and educate people around the world, and it remains an important symbol of American strength and ingenuity.

USS Hornet CV-12 Image Gallery

What was the USS Hornet CV-12's role in World War II?

The USS Hornet CV-12 played a significant role in World War II, participating in several major battles and campaigns, including the Battle of the Philippine Sea and the Battle of Leyte Gulf.

What was the USS Hornet CV-12's role in the Apollo 11 mission?

The USS Hornet CV-12 was used as a recovery vessel for the Apollo 11 mission, and it was the Hornet's crew that recovered the astronauts and their command module after they splashed down in the Pacific Ocean.

Is the USS Hornet CV-12 still in service?

No, the USS Hornet CV-12 is no longer in service and is now a museum ship, docked in Alameda, California.

What is the USS Hornet CV-12's current status?

The USS Hornet CV-12 is currently a museum ship and is open to the public for guided tours and exhibits.

How can I visit the USS Hornet CV-12?

The USS Hornet CV-12 is located in Alameda, California, and is open to the public for guided tours and exhibits. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the ship or participate in a guided tour led by a knowledgeable docent.

We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the USS Hornet CV-12's history and legacy. The Hornet's service during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, as well as its role in the Apollo 11 mission, make it an important part of American history. We encourage you to visit the USS Hornet CV-12 museum ship and learn more about this incredible piece of American history. Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments below, and don't forget to share this article with your friends and family who are interested in history and aviation.