The USS Essex (CV 9) played a role, as an aircraft carrier in the United States Navy during World War II showcasing advancements in technology and military strength. Its construction commenced on April 28, 1941, at the Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company in Virginia known for its expertise and efficiency. This was a time as the United States was increasing its production to address the growing global conflict. The keel was swiftly laid down. The ship was launched on July 31, 1942, reflecting the industrial mobilization of that period. Captain Donald B. Duncan took command when the Essex was officially commissioned on December 31, 1942, marking its entry into service with the Pacific Fleet.
The ships name pays homage to Essex County in Massachusetts following a tradition of naming vessels, after counties and cities. This choice not signifies a connection but also honors the regions deep maritime legacy. Essex County has a history of shipbuilding and seafaring dating to colonial times. The name Essex has been carried by vessels before including a frigate that distinguished itself during the War of 1812.
The USS Essex (CV 9) carried a name that symbolized courage and excellence.
One noteworthy aspect of the USS Essex was its size and capabilities. Serving as the flagship of the Essex class carriers it was designed to be larger and more advanced, than its predecessors. The ship stretched 872 feet in length with a beam of 93 feet. Boasted a displacement of around 27,100 tons. It had the capacity to accommodate 90 aircraft, including fighters, bombers and torpedo planes. Equipped with a flight deck for protection against enemy threats the Essex also featured cutting edge radar and communication systems that bolstered its operational efficiency. These advancements solidified the Essexs reputation as a presence in aviation.
The impact of the USS Essex on the US Navy has been profound. As a pioneer in its class the Essex established standards for aircraft carriers that influenced strategies and designs for generations to come. Throughout World War II the Essex and its companion ships played roles in Pacific Theater engagements such, as the Battle of Philippine Sea and the Battle of Leyte Gulf.
The efficient launch and recovery of aircraft, from the ship played a role in enabling the US Navy to extend its air power reach over distances significantly influencing the outcome of the war. The remarkable performance of the Essex class carriers underscored the significance of aircraft carriers leading to their presence in the Navy after the war.
The USS Essex was part of the group of Essex class carriers, which were meticulously designed to offer America a fleet of adaptable and potent aircraft carriers capable of operating in diverse combat zones. These vessels were crafted to supersede the Yorktown class carriers and rectify any deficiencies found in designs. The Essex class carriers were engineered for durability featuring armor and improved damage control mechanisms. They also accommodated an air group bolstering their capabilities. The adaptability and strength displayed by the Essex class vessels solidified their position as assets within the US Navys carrier fleet during World War II and beyond.
The entry into service of USS Essex marked the commencement of a journey that saw it earn a 13 battle stars for its commendable service, during World War II.
The dedication ceremony of the ship was a moment filled with pride and excitement signifying Americas dedication to securing victory, in the war and upholding its dominance. The Essex swiftly demonstrated its value by taking part in operations and offering crucial assistance to Allied troops. Its exceptional performance during the conflict established its reputation as an formidable asset leading to continued service with honor in years including active involvement in the Korean War and early Cold War era. The enduring legacy of USS Essex stands as a tribute, to the creativity and unwavering resolve of the US Navy and its skilled shipwrights.
USS Essex CV-9: The Technological Marvel and Armored Titan of the High Seas
The USS Essex (CV 9) served as an aircraft carrier that played a role, in the United States Navy during World War II. In terms of structure the Essex class carriers were designed to be larger and more durable than their predecessors measuring 872 feet long and 93 feet wide. The flight deck was armored. Stretched across the length of the ship providing ample space for aircraft operations. The hull was reinforced with a bottom for protection against torpedoes and mines while below the flight deck there was a hangar deck for storing and maintaining aircraft. To enhance efficiency the Essex class carriers were equipped with elevators to move aircraft between the hangar and flight decks.
From a standpoint the USS Essex was an engineering marvel of its era featuring radar and communication systems crucial for navigation and combat operations. The ship boasted the SK air search radar with a detection range of, up to 100 miles enabling spotting of enemy aircraft. Additionally it utilized the SG surface search radar to identify surface vessels and submarines
The Essex gained an edge by integrating radar systems allowing for air operations and quick threat responses. Its advanced fire control systems enhanced the accuracy and effectiveness of its aircraft guns, in combat.
Equipped to fend off both air and surface threats the USS Essex featured twelve 5 inch/38 caliber dual purpose guns strategically placed in turrets for targeting. Complementing these were 40mm Bofors aircraft guns and 20mm Oerlikon cannons, crucial for close range defense against enemy aircraft. Together these weapons formed a shield making the Essex a formidable adversary.
In addition to its artillery the USS Essex relied on its air wing as its asset. Housing 90 to 100 aircraft including fighters, dive bombers and torpedo bombers, like the F6F Hellcat, SB2C Helldiver and TBF Avenger.The aircraft, on board were fitted with types of weapons such as bombs, torpedoes and rockets enabling them to carry out missions from dominating the skies to attacking ground targets and submarines. The flexibility and firepower of the aircraft fleet played a role on the USS Essex in the Pacific Theater allowing it to exert influence over areas and launch powerful attacks, against enemy troops.
USS Essex CV-9 Crew Member Reports of Time Aboard
The USS Essex (CV-9) holds a rich tapestry of memories from its crew members, spanning from World War II through the Cold War and into the space age. These recollections, shared by the sailors and their families, paint a vivid picture of life aboard this storied aircraft carrier.### World War II and the Early Years
**Howard Auvil** served from the ship's maiden voyage in 1942 until after the war, reflecting a long and dedicated service. **Jerry Buckles**' father, John Buckles, was a Chief Petty Officer in ordnance, loading planes and retiring in 1945. **Glenn L. Carrington**'s father, a Carpenter's Mate, shared many stories from his time on the Essex during WWII. **William Gale**'s grandfather, a Gunner's Mate, was one of the 44 wounded in a kamikaze attack on November 25, 1944. **William Heinson**'s father was also among the wounded in the same attack. **Emerson Hough**'s father served from 1944 to 1946 and is still alive, eager to connect with fellow veterans. **Charles Smith**'s father served as an Oiler First Class in the Pacific during WWII. **Virgil E. Davis**'s father was part of Admiral Gerald Bogan's flagstaff, serving on four aircraft carriers during the war. **Ira Wilson**'s grandfather, a Chief Boatswain, left behind numerous photos and ship logs.
### The Korean War and the 1950s
**Joseph Banick**'s grandfather served as a Midshipman in 1950-1951, earning commendations. **Stephen Clancy**'s uncle, a Boatswain's Mate, served during the Korean War, inspiring Clancy to join the Coast Guard. **David Dackor** worked in supply during the Korean War, recalling both good and bad memories. **Ken Dunmire** was assigned to the Essex right out of boot camp in 1951, working in flight deck communications. **Marvin G. Fernandez**'s grandfather was a heavyweight boxer aboard the ship. **Robert Kerr** served as a Gunner's Mate from 1954, traveling extensively. **Robert Schroeder** served from 1956 to 1957, later joining the Fulton AS11. **Walter Tuchman**'s uncle was the assistant medical officer from 1955-1957, remembered for his humorous tales. **David Swenson** boarded the Essex in 1956, participating in a Far East cruise and rounding Cape Horn to Mayport, FL.
### The Cold War and the 1960s
**John Anderson** was on the flight deck in 1967 when a Russian Badger aircraft crashed into the water. **Courtland Baldwin** helped decommission the Essex in 1967 and recalled recovering Apollo 7 astronauts. **Greg Compton** sought the shipmate who helped him after a fall in 1967. **Joe Conroy** remembered the severe storm of December 1963 that damaged the ship. **Jay Coupe** cherished his two years aboard, forming lasting friendships. **Ron Dejackome** found himself in a home movie of the Russian Badger crash. **Rick DellErba** processed the paperwork and photos of the deceased Russian crew. **John Douglas** maintained friendships from his time aboard in 1958, later retiring as a Navy Captain. **Jim Failor** was in a boiler room during the Nautilus collision. **Henry Hutson** sought fellow crew members from a storm incident in 1963. **William Iannarelli** joined as a boot in 1968, participating in the Apollo 7 recovery. **James Johnson** worked on the hangar deck during a goodwill cruise to Norway and England. **Lawrence Kollman**'s husband was a gunner during a Japanese attack. **Tollie Lee** served during the Cuban Missile Crisis, visiting various ports. **Ed Marks** was on watch during the Nautilus ramming and the Apollo recovery. **Errol Marquis** recalled the tense moments of the Cuban Missile Crisis. **Joseph Maxwell** served during SEATO and NATO operations in 1963-1964. **Ernest McClenney**'s first ship was the Essex in 1964. **Tony Medina** served in the aft engine room from 1962 to 1966. **Bob Mitchell** stood watch during the Apollo recovery and decommissioning. **Richard Morell** experienced the Nautilus collision, Russian Badger crash, and hurricanes. **Gilbert Morin** managed reefers and storerooms during the Nautilus collision. **Charles E. Morris** sought fellow crew members from 1958. **William Oliver** lived in the Sail Locker and served as the ship's live boat coxswain. **Pete Orthmann** worked in the photo lab during the Apollo recovery. **Thomas Sharrer** worked on machinery and helped pull in Apollo 7. **Charles Tatton** missed the Apollo recovery due to the ship running aground. **Richard Tyndall** recalled seeing UFOs after a helicopter crash. **Thomas Valdez** served in the fire room from 1963 to 1966. **John Wagner** served as a crewman on the S2D and is now an Episcopal priest. **Mike Webster** worked in various stores and was one of the last men off the ship during decommissioning. **George White** lost a LOX cart overboard during a big swell in 1958. **Terry Williams** worked in the metal shop with his older brother. **Bobby Woody** was on the catapult crew during the Nautilus collision and the grounding at Rosy Roads. **Jim Yount** worked in Air Intelligence, gaining unique insights into global events.
### The Final Years and Decommissioning
**David Peterson**'s first ship out of Communication school was the Essex, where he experienced a hurricane and decommissioning in 1969. **Eric Piper** worked in the forward engine room and later managed the Aft Oxygen and Nitrogen plant. **Durward Pontius**'s uncle, who served in 1942, passed away in 2010. **Francis Reidy** served during the Bay of Pigs and Cuban Missile Crisis. **Paul Romanelli** sought a buddy statement for a long-standing injury claim. **Alan Scott**'s 18 months aboard led to a successful career in HR management. **Mark Selley** sought crew mates of his uncle, a machinist mate chief during WWII. **Thomas Valdez** had fond memories of his time in the fire room from 1963 to 1966. **John Wagner** enjoyed several Mediterranean and North Atlantic cruises. **Mike Webster** worked in various stores and was one of the last men off the ship during decommissioning. **George White** lost a LOX cart overboard during a big swell in 1958. **Terry Williams** worked in the metal shop with his older brother. **Bobby Woody** was on the catapult crew during the Nautilus collision and the grounding at Rosy Roads. **Jim Yount** worked in Air Intelligence, gaining unique insights into global events.
These memories, spanning decades, highlight the USS Essex's significant role in naval history and the personal growth and camaraderie experienced by its crew.
USS Essex CV-9: Evolution of a Naval Powerhouse
Throughout its time, in service the USS Essex (CV 9) underwent upgrades to adapt to changes in technology and the strategic requirements of the U.S. Navy. Initially put into service in December 1942 this aircraft carrier of the Essex class was originally equipped with a range of aircraft weaponry, including 5 inch dual purpose guns and 40mm Bofors anti aircraft cannons. As World War II progressed the ship was outfitted with radar systems. Improved fire control mechanisms to boost its combat capabilities. Following the war upgrades were made under the SCB 27A program, which involved enhancements such as a reinforced flight deck, new catapults and an angled deck to accommodate jet aircraft. These modifications ensured that the USS Essex remained a presence in the Navys arsenal into the era of Cold War tensions.
Over its years of duty the mission capabilities of USS Essex underwent transformations. During World War II this carrier played a role in Pacific Theater battles like those at Philippine Sea and Leyte Gulf. Its primary objective was to launch and retrieve aircraft for operations against enemy targets providing air support, for ground forces while maintaining air superiority.
After the war the role of the USS Essex expanded to include submarine warfare and power projection in the Korean War. Its ability to adjust to mission requirements, like functioning as an assault ship in Vietnam showcased its versatility and lasting importance to the fleet.
The USS Essex made contributions to the U.S. Navy. Achieved operational success. During World War II its air groups played a role in enemy ships and aircraft significantly weakening Japanese naval and air capabilities. The ship received 13 battle stars for its Pacific service, a testament to its effectiveness and the courage of its crew. In the Korean War it provided air support for UN forces by striking enemy positions and supply lines. The sustained air operations carried out by the Essex played a role in keeping pressure on Korean and Chinese forces eventually leading to an armistice.
Throughout its years the USS Essex embodied adaptability and resilience within the U.S. Navys carrier fleet. With upgrades over time it remained technologically advanced, in aviation, capable of meeting diverse conflict demands and missions.
The significance of aircraft carriers, in warfare was emphasized by their role in military conflicts. The impact of the Essex on carrier design and naval aviation has been enduring shaping generations and establishing a lasting legacy, in history.
USS Essex CV-9: A Legacy of Valor and Victory on the High Seas
The USS Essex (CV 9) was significantly involved in deployments and major conflicts, during its history especially in World War II. Launched in December 1942 the Essex took on a role as the flagship of its class within the U.S. Navys Pacific Fleet. Its initial significant mission occurred in August 1943 during the raid on Marcus Island marking the start of a series of campaigns where the Essex participated in almost all major naval battles in the Pacific Theater. From operations in the Gilbert and Marshall Islands to engagements in the Marianas and Philippines the Essex provided air support by executing fighter, bomber and torpedo missions that played a role in weakening Japanese defenses and supporting Allied progress.
In October 1944 during the Battle of Leyte Gulf. Recognized as one of historys conflicts. The Essex played a pivotal part. The ships air groups were essential in repelling forces by engaging enemy carriers and battleships. Additionally the aircraft from Essex played a role during invasions at Iwo Jima and Okinawa through bombing raids, against well fortified enemy positions.
The USS Essexs versatility and firepower were, on display during operations showcasing its crucial role in securing air superiority in the Pacific theater.
The remarkable contributions of the USS Essex did not go unnoticed. Throughout its service in World War II the vessel received 13 battle stars as recognition of its involvement in missions and its effectiveness in combat. Moreover the ship was honored with the Presidential Unit Citation for its bravery and outstanding performance during combat situations. This prestigious award highlighted not the ships service but also the courage displayed by its crew members who bravely faced numerous challenges and risks while on duty. The legacy of excellence set by the USS Essex continued beyond World War II with the ship undergoing modernizations and actively participating in the Korean War earning accolades for its dedication and valor.
Following its combat duties the USS Essex remained an asset to the U.S. Navy undergoing reclassification as an attack carrier (CVA 9) and later as a submarine warfare carrier (CVS 9) to meet changing naval warfare requirements. The vessel also played a role during the stages of the space race by serving as a recovery platform, for Apollo missions.
The Essexs illustrious service concluded in 1969 upon its decommissioning. Its impact lives on. The vessels multiple missions, involvement, in conflicts and the various accolades it garnered serve as a lasting tribute to its crucial place, in American naval history.
USS Essex CV-9 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Essex Class Aircraft Carrier |
| Commissioned | December 31, 1942 |
| Displacement | 36,380 tons |
| Length | 872 feet |
| Beam | 147.4 feet |
| Draft | 34.2 feet |
| Speed | 32.7 knots |
| Complement | 2,600+ |