Intro
Discover the forgotten history of USS Wasp CV-7, a pioneering aircraft carrier that played a crucial role in World War II. Explore its remarkable service, including fleet problem exercises, Neutrality Patrols, and its ultimate sacrifice in the Battle of Guadalcanal, highlighting its impact on naval aviation and aircraft carrier development.
The USS Wasp (CV-7) was a United States Navy aircraft carrier that played a significant role in the early years of World War II. Although it was one of the most important ships of its time, the Wasp has often been overlooked in favor of its more famous contemporaries, such as the USS Enterprise (CV-6) and USS Yorktown (CV-5). However, the Wasp's contributions to the war effort and its innovative design make it a fascinating and important part of naval history.
The USS Wasp was commissioned on April 25, 1940, and was initially used for training and exercises. However, with the outbreak of World War II, the Wasp was quickly pressed into service. In April 1942, the Wasp was assigned to the Atlantic Fleet, where it played a key role in the Allied invasion of North Africa.
Design and Innovation
The USS Wasp was designed to be a smaller and more maneuverable alternative to the larger aircraft carriers of the time. It was built with a unique "flush deck" design, which eliminated the need for a traditional island superstructure. This design allowed for a larger flight deck and improved visibility for the ship's pilots.
The Wasp was also equipped with a number of innovative features, including a hydraulic catapult system and a arresting gear system. These systems allowed the Wasp to launch and recover aircraft more efficiently and safely.
Operational History
The USS Wasp saw extensive service during World War II, participating in a number of key battles and operations. In August 1942, the Wasp was assigned to the Pacific Fleet, where it played a key role in the Battle of Guadalcanal.
On September 15, 1942, the Wasp was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine while operating off the coast of Guadalcanal. The ship sank just 75 minutes later, resulting in the loss of 193 lives.
Legacy
Despite its relatively short career, the USS Wasp played a significant role in the Allied victory in World War II. Its innovative design and operational history make it an important part of naval history.
The Wasp's legacy can also be seen in the many aircraft carriers that followed in its footsteps. The USS Wasp's design influenced the development of later aircraft carriers, including the Essex-class and the Midway-class.
Galleries
USS Wasp CV-7 Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the USS Wasp CV-7?
+The USS Wasp CV-7 was a United States Navy aircraft carrier that played a significant role in the early years of World War II.
Where was the USS Wasp CV-7 built?
+The USS Wasp CV-7 was built at the Fore River Shipyard in Quincy, Massachusetts.
What was the USS Wasp CV-7's most notable battle?
+The USS Wasp CV-7's most notable battle was the Battle of Guadalcanal, where it was torpedoed and sunk by a Japanese submarine on September 15, 1942.
How many lives were lost when the USS Wasp CV-7 sank?
+193 lives were lost when the USS Wasp CV-7 sank on September 15, 1942.
What was the USS Wasp CV-7's legacy?
+The USS Wasp CV-7's legacy can be seen in the many aircraft carriers that followed in its footsteps, including the Essex-class and the Midway-class.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of the USS Wasp CV-7 and its significance in naval history. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them with us.