USS Enterprise (CV-6): The Most Decorated Ship of World War II
Introduction: The Legend of “The Big E”
In the annals of naval history, few ships have left as indelible a mark as the USS Enterprise (CV-6). Nicknamed “The Big E,” this Yorktown-class aircraft carrier became a symbol of American naval might and resilience during World War II. From the smoke-filled skies of Pearl Harbor to the final days of the Pacific campaign, Enterprise stood as a beacon of hope and a harbinger of doom for Axis forces.
This blog post delves into the extraordinary story of the USS Enterprise (CV-6), exploring how she earned her title as the most decorated ship of World War II. We’ll chart her journey through pivotal battles, recount her numerous brushes with destruction, and celebrate the valor of the men who served aboard her decks.
The Birth of a Legend
Commissioning and Early Days
The USS Enterprise slid into the waters of the Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company on October 3, 1936. She was commissioned on May 12, 1938, under the command of Captain Newton H. White. At 19,800 tons standard displacement and 827 feet in length, Enterprise was a formidable presence on the high seas.
Technical Specifications
- Propulsion: 4 Parsons geared turbines
- Power: 120,000 shaft horsepower
- Speed: 32.5 knots
- Range: 12,500 nautical miles at 15 knots
- Crew: 2,919 officers and men
- Aircraft: Up to 90 planes
World War II: Forged in the Fires of Combat
Pearl Harbor and Early Pacific Operations
On December 7, 1941, Enterprise was at sea, having just delivered a squadron of Marine Corps fighter planes to Wake Island. This twist of fate spared her from the devastation at Pearl Harbor and positioned her to strike back quickly against Japanese forces.
Enterprise’s aircraft were among the first to engage Japanese submarines in the wake of the Pearl Harbor attack. On December 10, 1941, her planes sank the Japanese submarine I-70, marking the first U.S. naval victory of the war.
The Doolittle Raid
In April 1942, Enterprise played a crucial role in one of the war’s most daring operations – the Doolittle Raid. She escorted the USS Hornet, which carried 16 B-25 bombers, to within striking distance of Japan. This audacious attack on the Japanese homeland boosted American morale and proved that Japan was vulnerable to air assault.
Battle of Midway: Turning the Tide
The Battle of Midway in June 1942 marked a turning point in the Pacific War, and Enterprise was at the heart of the action. Her aircraft, along with those from USS Yorktown and USS Hornet, sank four Japanese fleet carriers – Akagi, Kaga, Soryu, and Hiryu. This decisive victory halted Japanese expansion in the Pacific and shifted the momentum of the war.
The Galloping Ghost: Surviving Against All Odds
Eastern Solomons and Santa Cruz
Enterprise earned her nickname “The Galloping Ghost” for her uncanny ability to survive severe damage and return to action. During the Battle of the Eastern Solomons in August 1942, she took three bomb hits but remained operational. Just two months later, at the Battle of Santa Cruz, Enterprise was hit by two bombs that caused extensive damage. Despite these wounds, she limped back to Pearl Harbor for repairs and returned to the fight.
Guadalcanal Campaign
Throughout the Guadalcanal Campaign, Enterprise provided crucial air support for Allied forces. Her aircraft played a significant role in the Naval Battle of Guadalcanal in November 1942, helping to turn back a Japanese naval force intent on bombarding Henderson Field.
The Most Decorated Ship: Honors and Achievements
Battle Stars and Commendations
Enterprise earned an unprecedented 20 battle stars for her World War II service, more than any other U.S. warship. She was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation in May 1943 for her “consistently outstanding performance and distinguished achievement.” In June 1946, she received the Navy Unit Commendation, making her the only ship to receive both honors during World War II.
Combat Record
By the war’s end, Enterprise’s air groups had:
- Shot down 911 enemy aircraft
- Sunk 71 ships
- Damaged or destroyed 192 more vessels
These staggering numbers testify to the skill and bravery of Enterprise’s pilots and crew.
Final Battles and the End of the War
Philippine Sea and Leyte Gulf
Enterprise participated in the Battle of the Philippine Sea in June 1944, where her aircraft contributed to the “Great Marianas Turkey Shoot,” decimating Japanese air power. Later that year, she played a role in the Battle of Leyte Gulf, the largest naval battle of World War II.
Kamikaze Attacks and Endurance
As the war entered its final stages, Enterprise faced a new threat – kamikaze attacks. On May 14, 1945, she was struck by a kamikaze, causing significant damage and casualties. This attack would be her last major combat action of the war.
Legacy and Remembrance
Decommissioning and Attempted Preservation
Despite her illustrious service record, Enterprise was decommissioned on February 17, 1947. Efforts to preserve her as a museum ship were unsuccessful, and she was sold for scrap in 1958, much to the dismay of naval historians and her former crew members.
Enduring Impact
The legacy of USS Enterprise (CV-6) lives on in the annals of naval history and in the subsequent ships that have borne her name. Her exploits inspired the naming of the starship in Gene Roddenberry’s Star Trek series, ensuring that the legend of “The Big E” would reach far beyond the realm of military history.
A Ship for the Ages
USS Enterprise (CV-6) is a testament to American naval prowess and the indomitable spirit of her crew. From Pearl Harbor to Tokyo Bay, she sailed into history as the most decorated ship of World War II. Her story is one of resilience, courage, and the unwavering determination of the men who fought and died on her decks.
As we reflect on the legacy of “The Big E,” we are reminded of the sacrifices made by the Greatest Generation and the pivotal role that ships like Enterprise played in securing victory in World War II. The USS Enterprise (CV-6) may no longer sail the seas, but her spirit lives on in the hearts of all who cherish freedom and valor.