About this Unit
Carrier Aircraft Service Unit 17 (CASU-17) was a United States Navy aviation support unit active during World War II. Established to provide maintenance, repair, and logistical support for carrier-based aircraft, CASU-17 operated primarily in the Pacific Theater. The unit played a crucial role at forward bases, including locations such as Espiritu Santo and Manus Island, ensuring operational readiness of naval air power during major campaigns. By efficiently servicing and repairing a variety of aircraft, CASU-17 contributed significantly to the sustained effectiveness of U.S. carrier operations throughout the war.
Historical Facts
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• Origins: CASU 17 stands for Carrier Aircraft Service Unit 17, a specialized support unit established by the U.S. Navy during World War II to maintain and repair carrier-based aircraft.
• Activation: CASU 17 was officially commissioned in 1943 and primarily operated in the Pacific Theater, supporting front-line air operations.
• Location: The unit was stationed at various Pacific island bases, notably on Manus Island in the Admiralty Islands, providing critical logistical and technical support.
• Role: Unlike combat squadrons, CASU 17 focused on the repair, overhaul, and servicing of all types of aircraft assigned to aircraft carriers and forward bases.
• Personnel: The unit consisted of skilled mechanics, technicians, and logistical staff, often working under challenging and hazardous conditions.
• Achievements: CASU 17 was instrumental in keeping aircraft operational during major campaigns such as the Battle of Leyte Gulf and the liberation of the Philippines.
• Innovations: The unit developed field-expedient methods to quickly repair battle-damaged aircraft, often turning around repairs in hours instead of days.
• Support for Multiple Carriers: CASU 17 was responsible for supporting several U.S. Navy carriers as they rotated through Pacific bases, including the USS Enterprise and USS Lexington.
• Legacy: The work of CASU 17 and similar units laid the groundwork for modern naval aviation maintenance and logistical support organizations.
• Recognition: Members of CASU 17 received commendations for their efforts, and the unit’s contributions are remembered as vital to the success of U.S. naval air power during World War II.
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