USS Badoeng Strait CVE-116
The USS Badoeng Strait (CVE-116) was a Commencement Bay-class escort carrier built during the final years of World War II. Her keel was laid down on October 18, 1944, at Todd-Pacific Shipyards in Tacoma, Washington. She was launched on February 15, 1945, and commissioned into the United States Navy on November 14, 1945. These escort carriers were crucial for the Navy, offering versatility and cost-effectiveness, especially in anti-submarine warfare and air support for ground operations.
The ship was named after the Battle of Badung Strait, a significant naval engagement in February 1942 during the early Pacific War. This battle involved a small Allied force trying to intercept Japanese invasion convoys near Bali, Indonesia. Although the Japanese achieved a tactical victory, the bravery of the Allied forces was honored by naming the USS Badoeng Strait after this battle. It served as a reminder of the sacrifices made and the strategic importance of naval operations in the Pacific.
The USS Badoeng Strait was compact and versatile compared to larger fleet carriers. She measured about 557 feet in length with a beam of 75 feet. Designed for various roles, she excelled in anti-submarine warfare and provided air support for amphibious operations. Her flight deck could launch and recover different aircraft, including fighters, bombers, and reconnaissance planes. She was also armed with anti-aircraft guns and other defensive weapons to protect against enemy threats.
The ship's legacy is marked by her contributions during the Korean War. She played a crucial role in providing close air support for ground troops, conducting anti-submarine patrols, and participating in various naval operations. Her effectiveness and adaptability during this conflict highlighted the value of escort carriers in modern naval warfare. The USS Badoeng Strait earned several battle stars and commendations for her significant impact on US military operations in the region.
As part of the Commencement Bay-class, the USS Badoeng Strait was among a group of escort carriers designed to be more robust and capable than earlier models. Built on a T3 tanker hull, these ships offered greater stability and durability. They were versatile platforms, rapidly deployable to various theaters, providing essential air support and enhancing the Navy's operational flexibility. This class represented a significant evolution in escort carrier design, reflecting lessons learned from earlier conflicts.
After her commissioning in November 1945, the USS Badoeng Strait underwent shakedown cruises and training exercises to prepare for deployment. Although she didn't see combat in World War II, her readiness was tested during the Korean War. Her service exemplified the Navy's efforts to maintain a versatile and capable fleet, ready to respond to emerging threats and support US military objectives worldwide.
USS Badoeng Strait CVE-116: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Badoeng Strait (CVE-116) was a Commencement Bay-class escort carrier, celebrated for its robust and versatile design. It stretched 557 feet long with a beam of 75 feet, offering a substantial flight deck for its aircraft. The hull had a double bottom, adding durability and protection against torpedoes and mines. The flight deck was wooden, a common choice back then to keep weight down and make repairs easier. Below, the hangar deck had elevators to move aircraft between levels, ensuring smooth operations during combat and training.
Technology-wise, the USS Badoeng Strait was equipped with cutting-edge radar and communication systems for its era. It featured the SK-2 air search radar for long-range detection of incoming aircraft and the SC-2 surface search radar for spotting ships and other surface threats. These radars were vital for early warning and tactical planning, giving the ship and its aircraft a significant edge in both offensive and defensive maneuvers. The ship also had the YE homing beacon, helping returning aircraft find the carrier, especially in bad weather or at night.
When it came to armament, the USS Badoeng Strait was well-prepared to defend against air and surface threats. Its main armament included two 5-inch/38 caliber dual-purpose guns, effective against both aircraft and surface targets. These were backed by anti-aircraft weapons like 40mm Bofors and 20mm Oerlikon cannons. The 40mm Bofors were great against low-flying aircraft, while the 20mm Oerlikons provided close-in defense. This mix of weaponry ensured the USS Badoeng Strait could protect itself and its aircraft from various threats.
The ship's offensive power wasn't just in its guns; it also carried aircraft that boosted its capabilities. Typically, it operated with a mix of fighter and torpedo bomber aircraft, such as the Grumman F6F Hellcat and the Grumman TBM Avenger. These planes were armed with machine guns, bombs, and torpedoes, allowing them to effectively engage enemy ships, submarines, and aircraft. The versatility of its air group made the USS Badoeng Strait a formidable force in anti-submarine warfare and surface combat, extending the reach and impact of the US Navy during its service.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Badoeng Strait (CVE-116) holds a special place in the hearts of its former crew members, as evidenced by the memories shared in its guestbook. These recollections provide a glimpse into the lives and experiences of those who served aboard the escort carrier during its active years.
Daniel Cooper served on the USS Badoeng Strait in 1946 as an Aviation Electrician's Mate (AE). His daughter, Nancy Cooper, shared a heartfelt post in the guestbook, seeking connections with anyone who might have known her father. Daniel Cooper was stationed at the San Diego Naval Air Station before his assignment to the USS Badoeng Strait. He passed away in September 1982 in Salem, Oregon. Nancy's post reflects a desire to piece together her father's naval history and connect with those who shared in his experiences.
Glenn Mattison, who served aboard the USS Badoeng Strait in 1945 as a Seaman First Class (S1C), also contributed his memories to the guestbook. Glenn fondly recalled spending a significant amount of time with H. Milton Reeves from New Jersey. He also mentioned their First Class Petty Officer, G. D. Taylor, from the 'R' Division, where Glenn was assigned. One particularly enduring memory for Glenn is the "Encyclopedia of Knots" that G. D. Taylor had shown him. Remarkably, Glenn still uses this book, a testament to the lasting impact of his time aboard the ship and the skills he acquired.
These shared memories highlight the camaraderie and lasting bonds formed among the crew members of the USS Badoeng Strait. The guestbook serves as a repository of personal histories, connecting past shipmates and their families, and preserving the legacy of those who served on this storied vessel.
USS Badoeng Strait CVE-116: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Badoeng Strait (CVE-116) had quite a journey during its time with the U.S. Navy. Commissioned in 1945, it was part of the Commencement Bay-class escort carriers. These ships were built to provide air support for amphibious operations and protect convoys. Over the years, the Badoeng Strait got some important upgrades. It received advanced radar and communication systems, which made it better at working with other ships and aircraft. The flight deck was also reinforced to handle newer, heavier planes, allowing it to take on more varied missions.
The Badoeng Strait was a real workhorse. Its main job was to serve as an escort carrier, offering air cover for convoys and landings. But it was also a key player in anti-submarine warfare. With specialized aircraft and sonar systems, it was great at finding and dealing with enemy subs. The ship could launch and recover planes quickly, making it a strong force in both attack and defense. Over time, its missions grew to include search and rescue, medical evacuations, and even early helicopter operations.
During the Korean War, the Badoeng Strait really shone. It was involved in several important operations, providing close air support for troops and disrupting enemy supply lines. Its aircraft flew many missions, offering crucial support that made a big difference in several battles. Operating in the tight waters off Korea showed just how valuable escort carriers could be. The ship's performance earned it multiple commendations and cemented its reputation as a reliable and effective part of the fleet.
But it wasn't just about combat. The Badoeng Strait also played a role in the Navy's bigger goals. It took part in training exercises and fleet maneuvers, helping keep naval aviators and crew sharp. Its presence in different areas acted as a deterrent to potential threats and showed off U.S. naval strength. Even after it was decommissioned in 1957, the lessons learned from the Badoeng Strait and the advancements it helped pioneer in carrier operations left a lasting legacy. Its history is a testament to the flexibility and lasting value of escort carriers in the U.S. Navy.
USS Badoeng Strait CVE-116: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
The USS Badoeng Strait (CVE-116) was a remarkable ship with a rich history. Commissioned in 1945, it was part of the Commencement Bay-class escort carriers, designed to provide air support for amphibious operations and protect convoys. Over the years, it underwent several upgrades. Advanced radar and communication systems were installed, boosting its coordination with other naval units and aircraft. The flight deck was reinforced to handle newer, heavier aircraft, broadening its mission capabilities.
The Badoeng Strait was a versatile asset. It primarily served as an escort carrier, offering air cover for convoys and amphibious landings. But it was also crucial in anti-submarine warfare (ASW). Equipped with specialized ASW aircraft and sonar systems, it was key in detecting and neutralizing enemy submarines. Its quick aircraft launch and recovery made it a formidable force in both offensive and defensive operations. Over time, its missions expanded to include search and rescue, medical evacuations, and even early helicopter operations.
During the Korean War, the USS Badoeng Strait made significant contributions. It was actively involved in key operations, providing close air support for ground troops and conducting interdiction missions to disrupt enemy supply lines. Its aircraft flew numerous sorties, delivering critical air support that turned the tide in several engagements. Operating in the confined waters off the Korean Peninsula, the Badoeng Strait showcased the strategic value of escort carriers in modern naval warfare. Its performance earned it multiple commendations and solidified its reputation as a reliable and effective fleet component.
Beyond combat, the Badoeng Strait played a role in broader strategic objectives. It participated in training exercises and fleet maneuvers, maintaining the readiness and proficiency of naval aviators and crew. Its presence in various theaters served as a deterrent to potential adversaries and demonstrated U.S. naval power. Even after decommissioning in 1957, the legacy of the Badoeng Strait lived on through the lessons learned and advancements in carrier operations it helped pioneer. Its service history is a testament to the adaptability and enduring value of escort carriers in the U.S. Navy.
USS Badoeng Strait CVE-116 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Commencement Bay Class Escort Aircraft Carrier |
| Commissioned | November 14, 1945 |
| Displacement | 11,373 tons |
| Length | 557 feet |
| Beam | 75 feet |
| Draft | 32 feet |
| Speed | 19 knots |
| Complement | 1,066 |