5 Amazing Facts About Uss 74 Aircraft Carrier

The USS Intrepid (CV-11), also known as the USS 74 Aircraft Carrier, is a legendary naval vessel that played a significant role in World War II and the Cold War. Commissioned in 1943, the Intrepid was the fourth Essex-class aircraft carrier built by the United States Navy. Here are five amazing facts about this incredible aircraft carrier.

Fact #1: USS Intrepid's Impressive Service Record

The USS Intrepid had an impressive service record, with 11 battle stars earned during World War II. The aircraft carrier participated in several major battles, including the Battle of Leyte Gulf, the Battle of Luzon, and the Battle of Okinawa. During the Korean War, the Intrepid was reactivated and served as a antisubmarine warfare carrier, earning five more battle stars.

USS Intrepid's Statistics

Here are some impressive statistics about the USS Intrepid:

Length: 872 feet (266 meters)
Beam: 93 feet (28 meters)
Draft: 29 feet (9 meters)
Displacement: 27,100 tons (standard), 34,800 tons (full load)
Speed: 33 knots (61 km/h)
Complement: 2,600 officers and men
Aircraft: 80-100 planes (depending on configuration)

Fact #2: The USS Intrepid's Famous " Fighting I" Nickname

The USS Intrepid earned the nickname "Fighting I" due to its impressive combat record and resilience in the face of enemy attacks. The aircraft carrier was damaged several times during World War II, but it always managed to return to service and continue fighting.

USS Intrepid's Battle Damage

Here are some examples of the USS Intrepid's battle damage:

Kamikaze attack on November 25, 1944: The Intrepid was hit by a kamikaze plane, killing 69 crew members and wounding 187.
Typhoon Cobra on December 18, 1944: The Intrepid was damaged by a typhoon, with winds reaching speeds of up to 140 knots (259 km/h).
Bombing attack on August 20, 1945: The Intrepid was hit by a Japanese bomber, but the damage was minimal.

Fact #3: USS Intrepid's Role in Space Exploration

The USS Intrepid played a significant role in the early days of space exploration. In 1962, the aircraft carrier was converted into a recovery ship for NASA's Project Mercury, with the Intrepid serving as the primary recovery vessel for astronauts Scott Carpenter and John Glenn.

USS Intrepid's Space Recovery Missions

Here are some examples of the USS Intrepid's space recovery missions:

May 24, 1962: The Intrepid recovered astronaut Scott Carpenter after his Aurora 7 flight.
February 20, 1963: The Intrepid recovered astronaut John Glenn after his Friendship 7 flight.
May 15, 1963: The Intrepid recovered astronaut Gordon Cooper after his Faith 7 flight.

Fact #4: USS Intrepid's Museum and Memorial

The USS Intrepid is now a museum and memorial, located in New York City's Hudson River. The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is a popular tourist attraction, with over 1 million visitors per year.

USS Intrepid Museum Exhibits

Here are some examples of exhibits at the USS Intrepid Museum:

The Hangar Deck: Features a collection of historic aircraft, including a World War II-era B-25 bomber and a Vietnam War-era A-4 Skyhawk.
The Flight Deck: Offers stunning views of the Hudson River and features a collection of modern and historic aircraft.
The Space Shuttle Pavilion: Displays the Space Shuttle Enterprise, which was used for atmospheric flight tests in the 1970s.

Fact #5: USS Intrepid's Legacy

The USS Intrepid's legacy extends far beyond its military service. The aircraft carrier has inspired generations of sailors, astronauts, and scientists, and continues to be a symbol of American ingenuity and determination.

USS Intrepid's Impact on Naval Aviation

Here are some examples of the USS Intrepid's impact on naval aviation:

The Intrepid was one of the first aircraft carriers to be equipped with a angled flight deck, which improved safety and efficiency.
The Intrepid was also one of the first aircraft carriers to be equipped with a steam catapult, which allowed for heavier and faster aircraft to take off.

Gallery Section:

USS Intrepid Image Gallery

FAQs:

What is the USS Intrepid's nickname?

The USS Intrepid's nickname is "Fighting I".

What is the USS Intrepid's current status?

The USS Intrepid is currently a museum and memorial, located in New York City's Hudson River.

How many battle stars did the USS Intrepid earn during World War II?

The USS Intrepid earned 11 battle stars during World War II.

What is the USS Intrepid's length?

The USS Intrepid's length is 872 feet (266 meters).

How many aircraft can the USS Intrepid carry?

The USS Intrepid can carry 80-100 aircraft, depending on the configuration.

Call to Action: We hope you've enjoyed this article about the USS Intrepid, one of the most iconic aircraft carriers in American history. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below.