USS Hornet CV12 Legacy

Introduction to the USS Hornet CV-12

The USS Hornet CV-12 is an Essex-class aircraft carrier that played a significant role in the United States’ naval history, particularly during World War II and the Vietnam War. Commissioned in 1943, the Hornet was the eighth ship to bear the name, following a legacy of U.S. Navy vessels that dated back to the American Revolutionary War. This aircraft carrier is renowned for its contributions to several pivotal battles and its involvement in the Apollo 11 and Apollo 12 space missions.

Construction and Early Service

The USS Hornet CV-12 was constructed at the Newport News Shipbuilding Company in Virginia, with its keel laid down in August 1942. The ship was launched in August 1943 and commissioned on November 29, 1943, under the command of Captain Miles M. Browning. Initially, the Hornet underwent a period of training and shakedown cruises before being deployed to the Pacific Theater to join the fight against Japan.

World War II Operations

The Hornet’s World War II service was marked by its participation in several key operations, including the Marianas campaign, the Battle of the Philippine Sea, and the Leyte Gulf battles. The ship’s aircraft conducted numerous raids against Japanese installations and shipping, contributing significantly to the war effort. The Hornet was awarded the Navy Unit Commendation for its service during this period and received eight battle stars for its World War II operations.

Post-War and Korean War Era

Following the end of World War II, the USS Hornet was decommissioned in January 1947 and placed in the Pacific Reserve Fleet. However, with the onset of the Korean War, the ship was recommissioned in March 1951 and modernized to accommodate jet aircraft. During the Korean War, the Hornet operated off the coast of Korea, conducting airstrikes against North Korean and Chinese forces. The ship was decommissioned again in May 1952 but was recommissioned in September 1953 after being converted to an attack aircraft carrier (CVA-12).

Vietnam War and Later Service

The USS Hornet played a significant role during the Vietnam War, serving as a platform for aircraft conducting strikes against enemy targets in North Vietnam. The ship was involved in several notable operations, including the Gulf of Tonkin incident, which escalated U.S. involvement in the war. The Hornet was awarded the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal for its service during this period.

Apollo Space Missions

One of the most notable aspects of the USS Hornet’s legacy is its involvement in the Apollo 11 and Apollo 12 space missions. In July 1969, the Hornet recovered the astronauts of Apollo 11, including Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins, after they splashed down in the Pacific Ocean. The ship repeated this feat in November 1969, recovering the Apollo 12 astronauts Pete Conrad, Alan Bean, and Richard Gordon.

Preservation and Legacy

The USS Hornet was decommissioned for the final time in June 1970 and was struck from the Navy List in July 1989. However, the ship’s legacy lives on as a museum ship, now known as the USS Hornet Museum, docked in Alameda, California. The ship serves as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the sailors and airmen who served on board and is a popular tourist attraction, offering a glimpse into the naval history of the United States.

🚢 Note: The USS Hornet CV-12 is now a National Historic Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its significance in American naval history.

The USS Hornet’s story is one of courage, resilience, and innovation, reflecting the evolution of naval warfare and space exploration. Its contributions to World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, as well as its role in the Apollo space missions, have cemented its place in history. Today, the USS Hornet stands as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served on board and a symbol of the enduring legacy of the U.S. Navy.

To summarize, the USS Hornet CV-12 played a pivotal role in various conflicts and historical events, earning numerous awards and accolades for its service. Its preservation as a museum ship ensures that its legacy will continue to inspire and educate future generations about the importance of naval history and the contributions of those who served on board.