ABOUT USS Phillipine Sea
- Two Ships, One Name: The name USS Philippine Sea has been borne by two U.S. Navy vessels: an aircraft carrier (CV-47) and a guided missile cruiser (CG-58), both named in honor of the pivotal World War II Battle of the Philippine Sea.
- Battle of the Philippine Sea: The ships are named after the June 1944 battle, famous for the "Great Marianas Turkey Shoot," where U.S. naval aviators decimated Japanese carrier aircraft.
- USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) Service: The aircraft carrier CV-47 was commissioned in 1946, serving primarily in the Atlantic and Mediterranean, and later in the Korean War, providing crucial air support for UN forces.
- Korean War Heroics: During the Korean War, CV-47 flew over 13,000 combat sorties and delivered thousands of tons of ordnance, earning nine battle stars for her service.
- Apollo Recovery: The carrier CV-47 participated in the recovery of the Apollo 7 space capsule in 1968, demonstrating her versatility beyond combat roles.
- Modern USS Philippine Sea (CG-58): The Ticonderoga-class cruiser CG-58 was commissioned in 1989 and equipped with the Aegis Combat System, making her a state-of-the-art warship for air defense and surface warfare.
- Desert Storm Operations: In 1991, CG-58 participated in Operation Desert Storm, launching Tomahawk missiles against Iraqi targets and supporting naval operations in the Persian Gulf.
- Anti-Piracy Success: In 2010, USS Philippine Sea (CG-58) was instrumental in the rescue of the tanker M/V Magellan Star from Somali pirates in the Gulf of Aden.
- Humanitarian Missions: CG-58 has participated in multiple humanitarian missions, including disaster relief efforts following hurricanes and providing aid during crises in the Mediterranean.
- Continuing Legacy: Both ships that have carried the name Philippine Sea have upheld a proud legacy of service, combining combat excellence with humanitarian efforts, and remain symbols of U.S. naval power and flexibility.