About this Unit
VT-5, also known as Torpedo Squadron 5, was a United States Navy torpedo bomber squadron established during World War II. Formed in 1942, VT-5 was assigned to the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown (CV-10) and later served aboard other carriers such as USS Franklin (CV-13) and USS Hancock (CV-19). The squadron participated in numerous Pacific Theater operations, including strikes against Japanese positions in the Marianas, Palaus, Philippines, and during the Battle of Leyte Gulf. VT-5 contributed to the sinking of enemy ships and played a significant role in the Allied victory in the Pacific before being disestablished in November 1945.
Historical Facts
• Establishment and Designation: VT-5, originally known as Torpedo Squadron 5, was established as part of the United States Navy on January 15, 1941, at NAS Norfolk, Virginia.
• Carrier Assignments: VT-5 served aboard several aircraft carriers, most notably the USS Yorktown (CV-5) and later the USS Franklin (CV-13) and USS Essex (CV-9) during World War II.
• Battle of the Coral Sea: VT-5 played a pivotal role in the Battle of the Coral Sea (May 1942), launching torpedo attacks against Japanese carriers and contributing to the sinking of the carrier Shōhō.
• Battle of Midway: During the Battle of Midway (June 1942), VT-5 participated in one of the most decisive naval battles of WWII, attacking Japanese carriers and facing heavy losses.
• Pioneering Torpedo Tactics: The squadron was instrumental in developing and refining torpedo-bombing tactics that became standard for later carrier air operations.
• Aircraft Flown: VT-5 operated several notable aircraft, including the Douglas TBD Devastator and later the Grumman TBF Avenger, both iconic Navy torpedo bombers.
• Distinguished Personnel: VT-5 counted among its ranks several Navy Cross recipients and other decorated aviators for acts of bravery and service.
• Significant Losses and Sacrifice: VT-5 suffered significant casualties, especially at Midway, where many crew members were lost in courageous attacks against the enemy fleet.
• Postwar Redesignation: The squadron was redesignated several times after WWII, eventually becoming Attack Squadron 5 (VA-5B) before its disestablishment in 1949.
• Legacy: VT-5’s history and contributions are commemorated in several naval museums and memorials, honoring their valor and impact on naval aviation history.
