The USS Valley Forge (CV 45) held importance in the history of the United States Navy showcasing a mix of craftsmanship and historical tribute. It was built at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard with construction starting on September 7, 1944, amidst World War II. The ship was launched on November 18, 1945. Officially put into service on November 3, 1946. The creation of the Valley Forge demonstrated Americas prowess and shipbuilding skills during that time period underscoring the country's dedication to maintaining a naval force.
Named after Valley Forge – where the Continental Army camped during the winter of 1777 1778, in the Revolutionary War – this ship symbolized perseverance, sacrifice and resilience akin to those exhibited by the soldiers at that site. By connecting it to such a moment in history its name served as a poignant reminder of the nations enduring values and past struggles for freedom.
One notable aspect of the USS Valley Forge was its Essex class design, which epitomized aircraft carriers both during and, after World War II. The Essex class carriers were renowned for their adaptability, resilience and capacity to extend air influence over distances. The Valley Forge boasted a flight deck to handle a variety of aircraft, from fighters to bombers and featured cutting edge radar and communication systems for its time. These attributes positioned the Valley Forge as an asset in both defensive naval operations.
The impact of the USS Valley Forge on the US Navy is significant. Serving as an Essex class carrier it played a role in the post World War II era during the Korean War. The ships involvement in missions like the Inchon Landing underscored the value of aircraft carriers in contemporary naval warfare. The service of the Valley Forge helped cement the carrier's role in the US Navys power projection capabilities shaping strategy and vessel design for years to come.
Belonging to the Essex class lineage of aircraft carriers the USS Valley Forge was part of a class crafted to meet World War II demands. Proved effective, in years. The main goal of these aircraft carriers was to offer air support, for ground missions engage in submarine warfare and maintain air supremacy in different operational areas. The Valley Forge, similar to its sibling vessels was designed to be an sturdy platform of adjusting to the changing demands of naval combat.
Launched into service on November 3, 1946, the USS Valley Forge began its operations during a period when the world was transitioning from the aftermath of World War II to the rising tensions of the Cold War era. The ships commissioning marked the start of a career that involved participation in significant missions and training exercises. The initial years of the Valley Forge were dedicated to training and readiness drills ensuring that both the ship and its crew were well prepared to handle threats. This phase of readiness set a foundation for the ship's contributions, to US naval activities worldwide.
USS Valley Forge CV-45: A Technological Marvel of Naval Warfare
The USS Valley Forge (CV 45) was a known aircraft carrier, from the Essex class, which was highly respected for its construction and adaptability during World War II and the Korean War. Measuring 888 feet in length and boasting a beam of 93 feet this ship had a flight deck of launching and recovering various types of aircraft. Its hull was made from high tensile steel ensuring both resilience and the ability to endure damage. The flight deck featured armor for protection against enemy attacks along with elevators and catapults designed to streamline the process of deploying and retrieving aircraft. Positioned on the starboard side the island superstructure housed components such as the bridge, flight control center and radar systems necessary for overseeing air operations.
In terms of technology the USS Valley Forge was equipped with cutting edge systems for its era. It had air search and surface search radars for detecting enemy planes and vessels over distances. These radar capabilities were complemented by communication gear that facilitated coordination, with other naval units and aircraft. The aircraft carrier also had a Combat Information Center (CIC) where data, from sensors and communication channels were combined to give a picture of the situation. This advanced technology allowed the USS Valley Forge to function effectively in both defensive roles adjusting to the changing dynamics of naval warfare.
Regarding weaponry the USS Valley Forge was well prepared to protect itself against air and surface threats. The primary offensive strength of the ship came from its air wing, which consisted of fighter, bomber and reconnaissance planes. These aircraft were equipped with machine guns, cannons, bombs. Torpedoes to engage a range of targets. For defense purposes the carrier was armed with aircraft guns like 5 inch dual purpose guns and 40mm Bofors anti-aircraft guns strategically positioned around the ship to create a strong defensive shield against enemy aircraft and small surface vessels.
The armaments on the USS Valley Forge underwent updates to keep up with advancements in technology. Throughout its service life the ship witnessed the introduction of jet aircraft which necessitated adjustments, to the flight deck and catapult systems to accommodate these planes increased speed and weight.
The anti-aircraft weaponry received enhancements through the installation of radar guided fire control systems. This upgrade improved the ships capability to detect and confront moving targets. These ongoing upgrades guaranteed that the USS Valley Forge maintained its strength over the years enabling it to exert influence and offer assistance, in naval encounters.
USS Valley Forge CV-45 Crew Member Reports of Time Aboard
The USS Valley Forge (CV-45) holds a treasure trove of memories for its former crew members, spanning from its construction in 1945 to its final deployment in 1969. These recollections, shared by the ship's crew, paint a vivid picture of life aboard the aircraft carrier, highlighting camaraderie, adventures, and the indelible impact of their service.Llewellyn Anderson, who served as an AOM3C in 1945, left a legacy that inspired his grandson to join the military. His stories and the pages of his book were a source of fascination and pride for his family. Similarly, Robert Joyce, a seaman in 1946, was part of the original crew and participated in the shakedown cruise, training in Pearl Harbor, and a world cruise. His service was a point of pride, often shared through photos and stories.
The ship's operational history is marked by various significant events and deployments. For instance, Robert Burton, a LTJG in 1952, recalled replacing VF52 with their mission-ready crew flying F4U-4 Corsairs. Charles Damron, an Aviation Boatswain Third Class in 1952, and Arthur Geib, a PFC in the Marine Corps Detachment from 1952 to 1953, also served during the Korean War, contributing to the ship's critical missions.
The ship's crew formed tight-knit bonds, often reminiscing about their shipmates and shared experiences. William Arbaugh, a BT 3 in 1955, sought to reconnect with fellow fire room crew members, while Jerry Creech, a DC5 in 1957, fondly remembered his buddies and the 67 ports they visited over four years. Carl Davis, an ABGAN in 1953, recalled his time as a boot-leg barber and the friendships he formed, including with a barber from Lincoln County, WV.
The ship's voyages were not without challenges. Jerry Creech recounted a significant storm that tore off a large part of the flight deck and punched holes below the waterline. Despite such adversities, the crew's resilience and camaraderie shone through. Fred Bessell, a BM 3 in 1960, described his journey from Norfolk through the Panama Canal to Long Beach and a West Pac cruise, highlighting his role as a coxswain and his friendship with TenEyck.
The ship also served as a platform for personal growth and professional development. Tom Costigan, an Airman in 1956, detailed his progression from pushing planes and holding fire bottles to becoming a plane director and spotting the port catapult. Edward Gray, an ABH 2 in 1959, worked in various capacities, including on the flight deck and with Task Group Alpha.
The Valley Forge's legacy extended beyond its active service, with many crew members maintaining connections through reunions and social media groups. Russel Green, an ABH3 in 1960, mentioned the Happy Valley reunion club and their gatherings, while Dial John, a DK2 in 1951, maintained a Facebook group for VF sailors and their descendants.
The ship's final years saw it transitioning to new roles and eventually its last deployment. David Juhasz, a FN3 in 1968, served during the ship's final deployment, seeking to fill in missing days from his time aboard. Jack Lenzer, an ENFN in 1968, was among the last crew members, recalling his departure from Long Beach in October 1969.
Throughout its service, the USS Valley Forge (CV-45) was more than just a ship; it was a home and a formative experience for those who served aboard. The memories shared by its crew members reflect a deep sense of pride, camaraderie, and the lasting impact of their time on the "Happy Valley."
USS Valley Forge CV-45: Evolution of a Naval Powerhouse
In its service history the USS Valley Forge (CV 45) underwent improvements to maintain its effectiveness, in the U.S. Navy. Originally launched as an Essex class aircraft carrier in 1946 it was initially equipped with radar and communication systems for that era. However as naval technology progressed so did the upgrades to the Valley Forge. By the 1950s significant enhancements were made, including the addition of a flight deck, steam catapults and reinforced arresting gear. These changes enabled the carrier to handle jet aircraft that were becoming standard in naval aviation thereby boosting its operational capabilities.
The mission roles of the USS Valley Forge expanded alongside its advancements. Initially designed for carrier operations the ships functions grew to encompass submarine warfare (ASW) and support for amphibious assaults. During the Korean War Valley Forge played a role by offering air support for ground troops carrying out bombing missions and engaging in air, to air combat.
The USS Valley Forge displayed its versatility during the Vietnam War by serving as both a submarine warfare carrier and later as an amphibious assault ship. These different roles highlighted how adaptable the ship was, proving to be an asset, in combat situations.
The USS Valley Forge made contributions to the U.S. Navy and its fleet during the Korean War where its air wing conducted numerous sorties providing crucial support that influenced key battles. Its quick adjustment to tasks and missions established it as a part of naval operations in the Pacific region. In the Vietnam War, its transformation into an assault ship enabled it to support Marine landings and offer assistance showcasing its relevance in modern warfare. The ships versatility and dependability garnered recognition through commendations solidifying its reputation as a workhorse of the fleet.
Apart from its combat duties the USS Valley Forge also played a role, in peacetime activities and humanitarian endeavors. It engaged in training exercises that helped maintain aviators and crew members readiness and skills. Additionally it undertook goodwill tours. Participated in disaster relief operations underscoring the U.S. Navys dedication to promoting stability and providing humanitarian aid.
The USS Valley Forges enduring reputation stems from its ability to adapt, persevere and serve with unwavering dedication solidifying its position, in the history of the U.S. Navy.
USS Valley Forge CV-45: A Legacy of Valor and Victory on the High Seas
USS Valley Forge (CV 45) played a role, in major conflicts throughout its service notably in the Korean War and the early stages of the Vietnam War. It was put into service in 1946. Quickly became involved in Cold War tensions after World War II. During the Korean War starting in June 1950 Valley Forge was the U.S. Carrier in the Western Pacific and was promptly sent to the Korean Peninsula, where it carried out the first carrier air strikes of that conflict. Throughout the war Valley Forge completed combat missions offering air support for United Nations forces and playing a crucial part in key operations like the Inchon Landing.
Aside from its involvement in the Korean War USS Valley Forge also played a role during the years of the Vietnam War. The ship was recommissioned as a submarine warfare carrier (CVS 45) in 1956 and later transformed into an amphibious assault ship (LPH 8) by 1961. In its capacity, as an assault ship Valley Forge took part in significant operations by deploying Marine Corps units and helicopters to Vietnam.
The ship showcased its versatility and flexibility as it transformed from an aircraft carrier to a platform of supporting various military operations ranging from anti submarine warfare, to amphibious assaults.
Throughout its duty USS Valley Forge received accolades and praises reflecting its substantial impact on U.S. Naval activities. For its service in the Korean War the vessel was honored with eight battle stars highlighting its successful role in combat missions. Furthermore Valley Forge was bestowed with the Navy Unit Commendation for its performance during the conflict. The crew of the ship was also acknowledged with awards recognizing their courage and commitment while serving on board.
The enduring legacy of USS Valley Forge is solidified by its involvement in efforts and peacekeeping missions. In 1954 the ship took part in Operation Passage to Freedom by aiding in the evacuation of civilians from North to South Vietnam following the Geneva Accords. This operation underscored the ships adaptability and capacity to engage in missions beyond warfare. The array of awards and commendations earned by Valley Forge and its crew stand as a testament to the lasting impact of the ship and its significant role, in U.S. History.
USS Valley Forge CV-45 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Essex Class Aircraft Carrier |
| Commissioned | November 3, 1946 |
| Displacement | 27,100 tons |
| Length | 888 feet |
| Beam | 93 feet |
| Draft | 28.6 feet |
| Speed | 33 knots |
| Complement | 3,448 |