Mar det USS Essex cvs-9

• Long Service Life: The USS Essex (CV/CVA/CVS-9) was commissioned in 1942 and served for nearly 30 years, participating in World War II, the Korean War, and the early years of the Vietnam War. • Namesake: She was the fourth U.S. Navy ship named after the Battle of Essex, honoring the legacy of the original USS Essex from the War of 1812. • World War II Action: Essex played a pivotal role in the Pacific Theater, participating in major battles such as Tarawa, the Marshall Islands, the Marianas, Leyte Gulf, and Okinawa. • Kamikaze Attack: On 25 November 1944, Essex suffered damage from a kamikaze attack, but quick action by her crew minimized casualties and kept her operational. • Modernization: In the 1950s, Essex underwent the SCB-27 and SCB-125 modernization programs, gaining an angled flight deck, new catapults, and upgraded radar systems, allowing her to operate jet aircraft. • Helicopter Carrier: Redesignated as CVS-9 in 1957, Essex became an anti-submarine warfare (ASW) carrier and frequently operated helicopters and S-2 Tracker aircraft. • Apollo Recovery: In 1968, Essex served as the primary recovery ship for the Apollo 7 space mission, retrieving astronauts and their capsule from the Atlantic Ocean. • Korean War Operations: Essex was one of the first carriers to launch combat missions during the Korean War, striking North Korean and Chinese targets. • Distinguished Sailors: Notable individuals, including future astronaut Alan Shepard, served aboard Essex during her long career. • Decorations: Throughout her service, Essex earned 13 battle stars for World War II service and 4 for the Korean War, making her one of the most decorated carriers of her era.