First-Hand Accounts: The Legendary USS Enterprise “Big E” of World War II

The USS Enterprise (CV-6) was one of the most decorated and storied ships of World War II, earning 20 battle stars for her service. Nicknamed the “Big E”, she played a pivotal role in many of the Pacific Theater’s most significant battles. Through the accounts of her crew members, we can gain fascinating insights into life aboard this legendary aircraft carrier during some of the war’s most intense moments.

The Shock of Pearl Harbor

For many Enterprise crew members, their first taste of war came with the shocking attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Don Hoff, a radioman gunner in Scouting Squadron 6, recalled a close call that day:

“I heard radio transmissions about the attack and initially thought it was fake, until I saw Enterprise’s battle colors flying, which made me realize ‘it was real.'”

This sudden shift from peace to war was jarring for many sailors and airmen aboard Enterprise.

Joining the Legendary Ship

Despite the dangers, many crew members felt immense pride in serving aboard Enterprise. Marine Jack Maroney of Dallas, Texas said:

“I sure wanted to go on the Enterprise. It had a great aura about it. And, of course, it had an illustrious history. You want to be a part of it.”

Alvin Kernan, who served as a gunner on a TBF Avenger, described achieving his dream of flying from Enterprise:

“That’s what I always had wanted to do. Besides, it was something known as flight skins or flight pay, which was 50% of your regular pay added on to your regular pay. But it was a status that went with flying.”

First Impressions of the “Big E”

Marine Lieutenant Richard Harte’s view of Enterprise evolved from initial skepticism to awe:

“The first time I saw the Enterprise, it was in dry dock in Bremerton in Puget Sound. And she was draped in every kind of a hose or pipe or conduit or a line you’ve ever seen in your life. There were welders all over her. And it didn’t even look like a boat. It looked like some giant, crazy project that somebody started and never finished.”

Later, Harte’s perspective changed dramatically:

“I didn’t think anything could be so big. I didn’t think anything could ever touch her. I just thought she must be absolutely invincible.”

Leadership and Fighting Spirit

The ship’s commanders played a crucial role in maintaining morale and fighting spirit. Pedro Sandoval recalled Captain Matthias Gardner’s words:

“When we got a new skipper, he said, ‘I have no medals and I have no ribbons. But I’m taking you out there to get ’em.'”

This embodied the ethos that Enterprise carried throughout the war.

Combat Experiences

As Enterprise plunged into the Pacific war, her crew found themselves in increasingly dangerous situations. Alvin Kernan described the fear of aerial combat:

“It wasn’t until they shot started firing right back at me that I began to get a little frightened.”

During the invasion of Tarawa, Kernan had a “grandstand seat” to observe the landings from his aircraft:

“And we bombed it. And the fighter planes strafed it. And the battleships shot the hell out of it. And there were palm trees down all over the place.”

Marine Lieutenant Richard Harte narrowly avoided being hit by shrapnel during one air attack:

“I had never seen a war before. And I wanted to get a good look at it. So I climbed up on an ammunition box so I could see better. And there was a much wiser sergeant sitting beside me-standing beside me. And he said, Lieutenant, I think you better get down. That’s not a good place to stand.”

Dangerous Missions

One of the most dramatic moments came during a night fighter operation. Willard Norberg recalled watching the famous pilot Edward “Butch” O’Hare prepare for a dangerous night mission:

“I watched Butch as he went to his plane that evening of the 26th, and he looked like he had the world on his shoulders.”

Tragically, O’Hare would not return from this mission.

Conclusion

These first-hand accounts vividly depict life aboard USS Enterprise during World War II. From the shock of Pearl Harbor to the intensity of aerial combat and amphibious invasions, the “Big E” crew members were at the forefront of the Pacific War. Their experiences highlight the danger, camaraderie, and historical significance of serving on one of America’s most famous warships during humanity’s greatest conflict.

Through their words, we gain a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made by the men who served aboard Enterprise, helping to secure victory in World War II. Their stories serve as a powerful reminder of both the human cost of war and the remarkable resilience of those who fought it.