Intro
Explore the USS Yorktown CV-10, a legendary aircraft carrier that earned the nickname The Fighting Lady during World War II. Discover its remarkable history, from its launch in 1943 to its pivotal role in the Pacific Theater, including battles at Midway, the Philippines, and Iwo Jima, and its eventual preservation as a museum ship.
The USS Yorktown (CV-10) is one of the most iconic aircraft carriers in the history of the United States Navy. Nicknamed "The Fighting Lady," she played a significant role in World War II, earning numerous accolades and setting a high standard for her successors. In this article, we will delve into the history of the USS Yorktown, exploring her construction, World War II service, and post-war career.
Construction and Early Years
The USS Yorktown (CV-10) was laid down on December 1, 1941, at the Newport News Shipbuilding & Dry Dock Company in Virginia. She was the first of the Essex-class aircraft carriers, a class that would go on to become one of the most successful in U.S. naval history. The Yorktown was launched on January 21, 1943, and commissioned on April 15, 1943.
Design and Specifications
The USS Yorktown was designed to be a fast and maneuverable aircraft carrier, capable of carrying a large air group and operating in a variety of environments. She displaced over 27,000 tons of water and measured 872 feet (266 meters) in length. The Yorktown's top speed was over 33 knots (61 km/h), making her one of the fastest capital ships in the world at the time.
World War II Service
The USS Yorktown played a significant role in several major battles during World War II, including the Battle of Midway, the Battle of the Philippine Sea, and the Battle of Okinawa. She was part of the Fast Carrier Task Force, which was responsible for providing air support for Allied operations in the Pacific.
Battle of Midway
The USS Yorktown's first major battle was the Battle of Midway, fought in June 1942. During the battle, the Yorktown's air group played a crucial role in sinking four Japanese aircraft carriers, including the Akagi, Kaga, Soryu, and Hiryu. The Yorktown herself was damaged during the battle, but she was able to return to Pearl Harbor for repairs.
Battle of the Philippine Sea
In June 1944, the USS Yorktown participated in the Battle of the Philippine Sea, also known as the "Great Marianas Turkey Shoot." During the battle, the Yorktown's air group helped to sink several Japanese aircraft carriers and shoot down hundreds of enemy planes.
Battle of Okinawa
The USS Yorktown's final major battle of World War II was the Battle of Okinawa, fought in April 1945. During the battle, the Yorktown's air group provided air support for Allied troops as they invaded the island of Okinawa.
Post-War Career
After World War II, the USS Yorktown was decommissioned and placed in reserve. She was reactivated in 1953 and modernized to accommodate newer aircraft and technologies. The Yorktown served during the Vietnam War, providing air support for Allied operations in Southeast Asia.
Museum Ship
In 1975, the USS Yorktown was decommissioned for the final time and donated to the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. Today, the Yorktown is a museum ship and memorial, open to the public for tours and educational programs.
USS Yorktown Image Gallery
What was the USS Yorktown's nickname?
+The USS Yorktown's nickname was "The Fighting Lady."
What class of aircraft carrier was the USS Yorktown?
+The USS Yorktown was an Essex-class aircraft carrier.
What was the USS Yorktown's top speed?
+The USS Yorktown's top speed was over 33 knots (61 km/h).
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the USS Yorktown's history and significance. As a museum ship and memorial, the Yorktown continues to educate and inspire visitors from around the world.