USS BELLEAU WOOD

USS **Belleau Wood** refers to two notable ships in United States Navy history, named after the World War I Battle of Belleau Wood. The first, **USS Belleau Wood (CVL-24)**, was a light aircraft carrier commissioned in 1943, serving with distinction in the Pacific Theater during World War II, participating in major campaigns such as the Battle of the Philippine Sea. For her service, she earned 12 battle stars before being transferred to the French Navy in 1953. The second, **USS Belleau Wood (LHA-3)**, was an amphibious assault ship commissioned in 1978, supporting numerous operations including humanitarian missions and Operation Desert Storm, before decommissioning in 2005. Both ships upheld the legacy of their namesake, embodying valor and service in their respective eras.