The USS Yorktown CV-10: Legacy of the Gallant Gray Lady

History of the USS Yorktown CV-10

The USS Yorktown (CV-10) was a Essex-class aircraft carrier that served with distinction in the United States Navy during World War II. She was the third ship to bear the name Yorktown, after the Battle of Yorktown in the American Revolutionary War. The CV-10 was commissioned in April 1943 and quickly deployed to the Pacific theater, where she played a significant role in some of the most decisive battles of the war.

Key Engagements:

• Battle of the Philippine Sea (June 1944)
• Battle of Leyte Gulf (October 1944)
• Battle of Okinawa (April-June 1945)

Design and Specifications

The USS Yorktown CV-10 was a massive aircraft carrier with the following specifications:

Length: 888 feet
Beam: 93 feet
Displacement: 27,000 tons
Speed: 33 knots
Complement: Over 3,000 officers and crew

She was equipped with a flight deck that could accommodate up to 90 aircraft, including fighters, bombers, and torpedo planes. The CV-10 also carried a powerful armament of anti-aircraft guns to defend against enemy air attacks.

Aircraft Carried

The USS Yorktown CV-10 operated a diverse array of aircraft, including:

Fighters:
- Grumman F6F Hellcat
- Vought F4U Corsair
- Chance Vought F4F Wildcat

Bombers:
- Douglas SBD Dauntless
- Curtiss SB2C Helldiver
- Grumman TBF Avenger

Torpedo Planes:
- Grumman TBF Avenger
- Curtiss SB2C Helldiver

Combat Record

The USS Yorktown CV-10 had an impressive combat record, participating in numerous major engagements throughout the Pacific War. She earned 11 battle stars for her service, including for her role in the decisive victories at Midway, the Philippine Sea, and Leyte Gulf.

Notable Achievements:

• Sank over 100 enemy aircraft
• Destroyed dozens of Japanese ships
• Supported numerous amphibious landings
• Provided air cover for the invasion of Okinawa

Legacy

The USS Yorktown CV-10 was decommissioned in March 1970 after nearly 30 years of service. She was donated to the Patriot's Point Naval & Maritime Museum in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, where she is now a popular tourist attraction. The CV-10 is a testament to the heroism and sacrifice of the American sailors who served aboard her during World War II.

Historical Significance:

• Played a critical role in the Allied victory in the Pacific War
• Earned the nickname "The Fighting Lady" for her aggressive and effective operations
• Remains a symbol of American naval power and innovation

Table 1: USS Yorktown CV-10 Aircraft Complement

Table 2: USS Yorktown CV-10 Combat Engagements

Table 3: USS Yorktown CV-10 Awards and Honors

Tips and Tricks

• Visit the USS Yorktown CV-10 museum to experience firsthand the history and legacy of this legendary aircraft carrier.
• Read books and articles about the CV-10 to gain a deeper understanding of its significance in naval warfare.
• Watch documentaries and films that feature the Yorktown to witness its combat operations in action.

Conclusion

The USS Yorktown CV-10 is a shining example of American naval engineering, innovation, and courage. Her remarkable combat record and enduring legacy serve as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the men and women who served aboard her. The "Fighting Lady" remains an icon of the United States Navy, inspiring generations to come.