USS AMERICA

• The USS America was the first of four Kitty Hawk-class supercarriers built for the United States Navy. • It was commissioned on January 23, 1965 and served in the Vietnam War, launching over 13,000 combat sorties. • During the war, the USS America was hit by a 2,000-pound bomb, which caused extensive damage but did not sink the ship. • In 1971, the USS America rescued 60 crew members from the Soviet fishing vessel Kolevan after it caught fire in the Atlantic Ocean. • The ship underwent a major overhaul in 1988, converting it from a conventional steam-powered carrier to a gas turbine propulsion system. • In 1991, the USS America played a significant role in Operation Desert Storm, launching over 7,000 combat sorties in support of coalition forces. • After participating in various humanitarian missions and exercises, the USS America was decommissioned on August 9, 1996. • Efforts were made to preserve the ship as a museum, but ultimately it was used for target practice and sunk during a live-fire exercise in 2005. • The USS America received numerous awards and accolades during its service, including the Navy Unit Commendation, Meritorious Unit Commendation, and Battle Efficiency Award. • The legacy of the USS America lives on through its former crew members and the memories of those who served on board during its illustrious career.