Intro
Discover the legendary USS Midway CV-41, a iconic aircraft carrier that served from 1945 to 1992. Learn about its remarkable history, significant contributions during the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm, and its current status as a naval aviation museum in San Diego. Explore its impact on naval warfare and its enduring legacy.
The USS Midway 68 is an iconic aircraft carrier that has left an indelible mark on the world of naval aviation. Commissioned in 1945, the USS Midway (CV-41) was the lead ship of its class and served for an impressive 47 years, earning the distinction of being one of the longest-serving aircraft carriers in the United States Navy.
The USS Midway 68 played a significant role in the Cold War, serving as a deterrent to Soviet aggression and participating in various conflicts, including the Vietnam War. Its impressive combat record and innovative design made it a legendary vessel among naval historians and enthusiasts.
Early Years and Design
The USS Midway was the third aircraft carrier to bear the name Midway, with the previous two being lost during World War II. The new Midway was designed to be a more advanced and efficient aircraft carrier, with a larger flight deck and improved catapult systems.
The USS Midway 68 was constructed by the Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company in Virginia and was launched on March 20, 1945. It was commissioned on September 10, 1945, with Captain Joseph T. Thornton in command.
Key Features and Innovations
The USS Midway 68 boasted several innovative features, including:
- A larger flight deck, measuring 968 feet (295 meters) long and 235 feet (72 meters) wide
- A more advanced catapult system, capable of launching aircraft with heavier payloads
- Improved arresting gear, enabling safer and more efficient landings
- Enhanced radar and communication systems, providing better situational awareness and command and control capabilities
Cold War and Vietnam War Service
The USS Midway 68 played a significant role in the Cold War, serving as a deterrent to Soviet aggression and participating in various NATO exercises. During the Vietnam War, the USS Midway 68 conducted numerous combat sorties, providing close air support to ground troops and striking enemy targets.
Some notable operations and events involving the USS Midway 68 include:
- Operation Rolling Thunder, a bombing campaign against North Vietnamese targets
- Operation Linebacker, a series of airstrikes against North Vietnamese military installations
- The Gulf of Tonkin incident, in which the USS Midway 68 played a supporting role
Awards and Decorations
The USS Midway 68 received numerous awards and decorations for its service, including:
- 12 Battle Effectiveness Awards
- 5 Navy Unit Commendations
- 2 Meritorious Unit Commendations
- 1 American Campaign Medal
- 1 World War II Victory Medal
- 1 National Defense Service Medal
- 1 Vietnam Service Medal
- 1 Humanitarian Service Medal
Legacy and Preservation
After being decommissioned in 1992, the USS Midway 68 was converted into a museum ship and is now permanently moored in San Diego Bay, California. The USS Midway Museum, opened in 2004, showcases the aircraft carrier's rich history and features an impressive collection of naval aircraft and artifacts.
The USS Midway 68 has been recognized as a National Historic Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Conclusion and Call to Action
The USS Midway 68 is an iconic aircraft carrier that has left an indelible mark on the world of naval aviation. Its impressive combat record, innovative design, and rich history make it a legendary vessel among naval historians and enthusiasts. As a museum ship, the USS Midway 68 continues to inspire and educate visitors, serving as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of those who served on board. We invite you to visit the USS Midway Museum and experience the incredible legacy of this iconic aircraft carrier.
Gallery of USS Midway 68
USS Midway 68 Image Gallery
What was the USS Midway 68's role in the Vietnam War?
+The USS Midway 68 conducted numerous combat sorties, providing close air support to ground troops and striking enemy targets during the Vietnam War.
How long did the USS Midway 68 serve in the United States Navy?
+The USS Midway 68 served for an impressive 47 years, from 1945 to 1992.
What is the current status of the USS Midway 68?
+The USS Midway 68 is now a museum ship, permanently moored in San Diego Bay, California, and is open to the public for tours and educational programs.