About this Unit
**Commander Carrier Division Nine (ComCarDiv 9)** was a United States Navy carrier formation established during World War II. Activated in April 1944, ComCarDiv 9 initially operated with fast carrier task forces in the Pacific, playing a crucial role in major campaigns such as the Battle of Leyte Gulf and the Philippines campaign. The division typically oversaw several Essex-class aircraft carriers, coordinating air strikes, fleet air defense, and support for amphibious landings. Postwar, ComCarDiv 9 continued to serve during the early Cold War, adapting to new technologies before its eventual disestablishment as the Navy reorganized its carrier commands.
Historical Facts
• Origins in WWII: Commander, Carrier Division Nine (ComCarDiv 9) was established during World War II, playing a crucial role in the Pacific Theater with fast carrier task forces.
• Flagship Assignments: ComCarDiv 9 flew its flag aboard several famous aircraft carriers, including USS Essex (CV-9), USS Ticonderoga (CV-14), and USS Lexington (CV-16).
• Battle of Leyte Gulf: The unit participated in the historic Battle of Leyte Gulf in 1944, one of the largest naval battles in history, contributing to the defeat of the Japanese fleet.
• Kamikaze Defense: During late WWII, carriers under ComCarDiv 9 endured intense kamikaze attacks, with crews developing innovative damage control and air defense tactics.
• Korean War Service: After WWII, ComCarDiv 9 was reactivated for the Korean War, providing vital air support and interdiction missions from the sea.
• Vietnam War Contributions: The unit played a significant role in the Vietnam War, commanding carrier task groups that launched air strikes against North Vietnamese targets.
• Notable Commanders: Rear Admiral Frederick C. Sherman and Rear Admiral Arthur W. Radford (later Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff) both commanded ComCarDiv 9.
• Cold War Operations: During the Cold War, ComCarDiv 9 helped project US naval power globally, participating in NATO exercises and demonstrating carrier strike capability.
• Transition to Carrier Strike Groups: With Navy organizational changes, ComCarDiv 9's lineage continued as staff roles evolved into modern Carrier Strike Group commanders.
• Legacy and Honors: Ships and aviators under ComCarDiv 9 earned numerous awards, including Presidential Unit Citations, reflecting their valor and effectiveness in combat operations.
