USS Shipley Bay CVE-85
The USS Shipley Bay (CVE-85) was a Casablanca-class escort carrier built during World War II. Her keel was laid down on November 19, 1943, at the Kaiser Shipyards in Vancouver, Washington. This shipyard was famous for its fast and efficient shipbuilding. She was launched on February 12, 1944, and commissioned on March 21, 1944. The Shipley Bay was part of a larger effort to strengthen the U.S. Navy's carrier fleet, which was vital for operations in the Pacific during the war.
Named after Shipley Bay in Alaska, the ship followed the tradition of naming escort carriers after bays or sounds. This practice highlighted the natural beauty and geographical features of the U.S. The name also celebrated the nation's rich maritime heritage. The USS Shipley Bay carried this legacy proudly, serving as both a strategic military asset and a symbol of American ingenuity and resilience.
The Shipley Bay was compact and versatile. As a Casablanca-class escort carrier, she was about 512 feet long with a beam of 65 feet. She had a single hangar deck and a flight deck that could hold up to 27 aircraft, including fighters and torpedo bombers. Her smaller size allowed for greater maneuverability and the ability to operate in various naval theaters. Powered by two Skinner Unaflow reciprocating steam engines, she could reach speeds of around 19 knots.
The USS Shipley Bay made significant contributions during World War II. Escort carriers like her were crucial for anti-submarine warfare, convoy protection, and providing air support for amphibious operations. Her service ensured the safe passage of troops and supplies across the Pacific, playing a key role in the success of Allied operations. The Shipley Bay's history highlights the strategic importance of escort carriers in modern naval warfare.
Part of the Casablanca-class, the most numerous class of escort carriers ever built, the Shipley Bay was one of 50 ships completed. These vessels were designed to provide air support for convoys and amphibious assaults and to serve as platforms for anti-submarine warfare. Their rapid construction and deployment reflected the urgent need for naval air power during the war. The versatility and effectiveness of the Casablanca-class made them invaluable to the U.S. Navy's carrier fleet.
Commissioned on March 21, 1944, the USS Shipley Bay quickly became a key player in the U.S. Navy's Pacific operations. Her commissioning marked the start of her active service, during which she took part in several important campaigns and operations. The crew, made up of dedicated sailors and aviators, worked tirelessly to keep the ship ready and effective in combat. The commissioning of the Shipley Bay was a significant milestone, symbolizing the United States' commitment to winning World War II through superior naval power and innovation.
USS Shipley Bay CVE-85: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Shipley Bay (CVE-85) was a Casablanca-class escort carrier, a class celebrated for its versatility during World War II. It measured 512 feet and 3 inches in length, with a beam of 65 feet and a draft of 22 feet 6 inches. The flight deck was the heart of the ship's operations, designed to handle a variety of aircraft, including fighters and torpedo bombers. The hull, made of welded steel, provided the strength and flexibility needed to endure the challenges of naval warfare. Its superstructure was minimalistic, maximizing deck space and minimizing weight, crucial for speed and maneuverability.
The USS Shipley Bay boasted cutting-edge navigation and communication systems for its time. It featured radar systems vital for navigation and combat, detecting enemy aircraft and ships from afar. These radar systems were paired with advanced radio communication, ensuring smooth coordination with other vessels and aircraft. The ship also had a catapult system for launching aircraft and arresting gear for recovery, essential for efficient flight operations. These technological features made the USS Shipley Bay a formidable asset in the Pacific Theater.
In terms of armament, the USS Shipley Bay was well-prepared to defend against aerial and surface threats. It was armed with anti-aircraft guns, including 20mm Oerlikon cannons and 40mm Bofors guns, providing layered defense against enemy aircraft. These guns were strategically placed for 360-degree coverage, ensuring no angle was left unprotected. Additionally, the ship had a single 5-inch/38 caliber dual-purpose gun, effective against both surface and aerial targets. This combination of weaponry allowed the USS Shipley Bay to defend itself while supporting offensive operations.
The ship's true offensive power lay in its aircraft complement. Typically, it carried around 28 to 34 aircraft, including Grumman FM-2 Wildcats, Grumman TBM Avengers, and later, the more advanced Grumman F6F Hellcats. These aircraft could conduct a wide range of missions, from air superiority and ground attack to anti-submarine warfare. The versatility of its aircraft allowed the USS Shipley Bay to adapt to various combat scenarios, making it an invaluable asset in the U.S. Navy's efforts during World War II. The combination of robust structure, advanced technology, and formidable armament made the USS Shipley Bay a key player in the naval battles of its time.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Shipley Bay (CVE-85) holds a special place in the hearts of many who served aboard her during World War II. The memories shared by the crew and their families paint a vivid picture of life on this escort carrier, from the camaraderie and daily duties to the significant wartime events they experienced together.
A.M. Beam, who served as a Machinist's Mate, is remembered by his son, Martin Beam, who seeks to connect with anyone who knew his father. Similarly, Lawrence Brennan recalls his father serving with the VC-97 Squadron alongside Lt. Comdr. M.T. Whittier and R.D. Fowles. Brennan's father passed away in 2001, but the family remains eager to hear from his shipmates.
Jim Combs, an ABM 3/C, worked on the flight deck managing arresting gears and catapults. He recalls the ship's journey to Guam for tank repairs after refueling and proudly identifies as a plank owner. Robert E. Cozart's father, a MAM2, was part of the commissioning crew, and Cozart cherishes the original "Commissioning Issue" of the ship's newsletter.
Nate Dickler, who served in 1943, often spoke fondly of his time aboard the "floating city." After his naval service, he enjoyed a long career in the jewelry industry and raised three children. Robert Dobbins, who served in 1942, is still alive and living in California, with his family eager to connect with anyone who remembers him.
Thomas Fluhart, an AMM/CAC, recounts the harrowing experience of a kamikaze attack during the Okinawa campaign, which buckled an aviation fuel chamber. The ship went to Guam for repairs before returning to the battle until the island surrendered. James Glass, a 3rd Petty Officer - Torpedo Man, served until the end of the war and is remembered fondly by his family.
Fred Gerald Greenlee, a Radarman 2nd Class, participated in Operation Magic Carpet, helping return U.S. personnel to the Pacific. His son, John Greenlee, notes that his father was honorably discharged in 1948. H.W. Janikowski, a Water Tender 2nd Class, served for 26 months, and his family is keen to hear from anyone who knew him.
Ben Jennings' father, Rufus Benjamin Jennings, was a radio tech on the Shipley Bay, and the family is interested in connecting with his shipmates. Wallace Johnston, a Machinist's Second Class, served until his passing in 2006, with his daughter Diane sharing his service details.
Phillip McGraw, a Radarman 3rd Class, enlisted out of high school and took great pride in his service. Melvin Miller, who served from March 1944 until 1946, worked as a signal and flight man and has a large family eager to hear from his fellow crew members.
Jarvis Mills, known as "Joe," worked with supplies and helped feed ammo to the gunner. He was friends with D.M. Clark and E.E. Hyde. Bruce Muench, an Aviation Radioman, served briefly before being stationed at Kwajalein in the Marshall-Gilberts.
Philip W. Nearing's father served as a Seaman, and the family is interested in sharing photos and stories. Edward Palmer's father served on deck during WWII, and the family seeks more information about his service. Charlie Randleman, an Electrician's Mate, passed away in 1999, with his son sharing his story.
John Russell, a Photographer's Mate 2nd Class, served on multiple CVEs before joining the Shipley Bay and has photos of divisions and individuals. Charles Smith, a 1st Class Machinist Mate, served from the ship's commissioning to the end of the war, and his son John A. Smith is eager to connect with his father's shipmates.
Jack Smith's father, Felix L. Smith, was a Cook 2nd Class and served from the ship's first voyage to the end of the war. Roy Stevens, an ARM2/C, was an aircrewman with VC97 during the Okinawa battle and returned to Oakland, California, after the war.
Joseph Stout's father, a Technical Sergeant and radar specialist in the Marine Corps, served on the Shipley Bay, and the family is interested in connecting with those who knew him. William Thompson's father, an officer, served on both the Shipley Bay and the USS Capps, with the family eager to hear from his shipmates.
Thomas Wood's father, who ran the evaporators, often spoke about his time on the Shipley Bay and is remembered fondly by his family.
These memories collectively highlight the diverse roles and experiences of the USS Shipley Bay's crew, reflecting their dedication, bravery, and the strong bonds formed during their service in World War II.
USS Shipley Bay CVE-85: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Shipley Bay (CVE-85) was a remarkable escort carrier that saw significant action during World War II. Commissioned in 1944, it started with a basic setup of aircraft and radar systems. But as the war progressed, so did the Shipley Bay. It got upgraded radar and communication systems, boosting its ability to work seamlessly with other ships and aircraft. Its anti-aircraft armament was also enhanced, making it a tougher opponent against enemy threats. These improvements kept the Shipley Bay a vital player in the Pacific Theater.
The Shipley Bay was versatile, adapting to the Navy's changing needs. As an escort carrier, its main job was to provide air support for convoys and amphibious operations. Its aircraft were key in anti-submarine warfare, reconnaissance, and close air support. During the Battle of Okinawa, the carrier's planes were crucial in neutralizing enemy positions and protecting ground troops. The Shipley Bay's air wing could handle a variety of tasks, from offensive strikes to defensive patrols, making it an essential part of the Navy's strategy.
The Shipley Bay's contributions during World War II were significant. As part of Task Force 52, it supported many amphibious assaults, including the invasions of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. Its aircraft provided vital air cover, reconnaissance, and ground attack capabilities, helping secure beachheads and advance Allied positions. The Shipley Bay also excelled in anti-submarine operations, safeguarding convoys from Japanese submarines. Its ability to adapt to different missions showed its strategic flexibility and highlighted its importance in the Pacific operations.
After the war, the Shipley Bay continued to serve, though in a reduced role. With the end of World War II, naval priorities shifted, and many escort carriers were decommissioned or repurposed. The Shipley Bay was decommissioned in 1946, but its legacy lived on. Its service record showed the crucial role of escort carriers in achieving maritime dominance and the importance of technological upgrades in staying effective. The lessons from the Shipley Bay's service influenced future naval strategies and the development of more advanced carriers, ensuring its contributions would be remembered long after its active duty ended.
USS Shipley Bay CVE-85: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
USS Shipley Bay (CVE-85) was a key player in World War II, showing just how crucial escort carriers were. Commissioned in 1944, she quickly found herself in the heart of the Pacific Theater. Her first missions were all about providing air cover and support for amphibious landings. This was a big deal, as it helped ensure the success of many operations. She was part of the Battle of Leyte Gulf, one of the largest naval battles ever. Her aircraft played a vital role in defending against Japanese forces trying to stop the Allied invasion of the Philippines.
As the war went on, Shipley Bay kept proving her worth in major battles. She was right there in the thick of the Battle of Okinawa, one of the toughest and bloodiest battles in the Pacific. During this time, her aircraft provided crucial close air support for ground troops and took on anti-submarine duties to keep the fleet safe from underwater threats. Her efforts were key in maintaining air superiority and protecting the larger fleet, showing just how important escort carriers were in modern naval warfare.
USS Shipley Bay's contributions didn't go unnoticed. She earned several awards and commendations, including the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with four battle stars, recognizing her role in multiple critical operations across the Pacific. She also received the World War II Victory Medal, highlighting her part in the ultimate Allied victory. These honors speak volumes about the ship's outstanding performance and the bravery of her crew in the face of tough challenges.
The legacy of USS Shipley Bay is further highlighted by the Presidential Unit Citation awarded to her air group for extraordinary heroism in action. This commendation shines a light on the exceptional skill and courage of the pilots and support personnel who worked from her decks. Her impressive service record and the accolades she earned are a lasting tribute to the vital role of escort carriers in achieving victory during World War II.
USS Shipley Bay CVE-85 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Casablanca Class Escort Aircraft Carrier |
| Commissioned | March 21, 1944 |
| Displacement | 10,902 tons |
| Length | 512 feet |
| Beam | 108.1 feet |
| Draft | 22.6 feet |
| Speed | 20 knots |
| Complement | 860 |