Deactivated warships tied up at Pier 91, Seattle, Washington, in a photo dated 9 January 1947. On the near side of the pier are the carriers Essex (CV-9); Bon Homme Richard (CV-31); and Bunker Hill (CV-17), closer to camera. On the far side of the pier is the carrier Ticonderoga (CV-14) and the battleships Indiana (BB-58) and Alabama (BB-60).

National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) photo, # 80-G-373247.

Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, probably on 23 April 1948 (Official US Navy photo, National Archives and Records Administration [NARA], # 80-G-428458). Bremerton Group, Pacific Reserve Fleet. The six "mothballed" carriers are, front to back: Essex (CV-9), Ticonderoga (CV-14), Yorktown (CV-10), Lexington (CV‑16), Bunker Hill (CV-17), and Bon Homme Richard (CV-31, in the background.)

At left and in the distance are battleships and cruisers.

Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, April 22, 1949 (photo # NY8-3351.) USS Essex (CV 9) in Drydock #5. Bow on view.

Photo from the Seattle Branch of the National Archives.

USS Essex (CV-9) undergoing modernization at Dry-Dock No. 5 of the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, 22 April 1949.

Source: United States Navy, Photo No. unknown.

Three-inch gun tubs on the fantail of the carrier USS Essex (CV-9) in the early 1950s. U.S. Navy photo.

Grumman F9F-2 Panther fighters of Fighter Squadron (VF) 51 "Screaming Eagles" launching from USS Essex (CV-9). The aircraft carrier was deployed with Carrier Air Group (CVG) 5 to Korea, 26 June 1951–25 March 1952. Photo by Peter Erickson Rockville, USN.

Underway during her first Korean War deployment, circa August 1951-March 1952. Two F2H-2 Banshees of Fighter Squadron (VF) 172 are flying by in the foreground, preparing to recover aboard. Nearest plane is Bureau Number 124954. The other appears to be BuNo 124969.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, from the collections of the Naval History and Heritage Command (NH&HC), photo # NH 97270.

Korean Waters, August 1951, USS Essex (CV-9) with Carrier Air Group (CVG) 5 embarked, consisting of the following squadrons:

• VF-51 "Screaming Eagles," F9F-2 (Panther)
• VF-172 "Night Owls," F2H-2 (Banshee)
• VF-53 "Blue Knights," F4U-4 and F4U-4B(Corsair)
• VF-54 "Hell's Angels," AD-2/3/4 (Skyraider)
• VC-3 "Blue Nemesis" Det. B, F4U-5NL (Corsair)
• VC-11 Det. B, AD-4W (Skyraider)
• VC-35 "Night Hecklers" Det. B, AD-4NL (Skyraider)
• VC-61 "Eyes of the Fleet" Det. B, F9F-2P (Panther)
• HU-1 "Pacific Fleet Angels" Det. B, HO3S-1

View shows an F4U-4 Corsair about to recover aboard, returning from a mission.

USS Essex (CV-9), with Carrier Air Group (CVG) 5, during or about the time of her first Korean War deployment, 26 June 1951–25 March 1952.

Essex (CV-9), with planes on deck, operating with UN forces in Korea, 25 August 1951 (photo # USN-432873).

A McDonnell F2H-2 Banshee (BuNo 124974) fighter from Fighter Squadron VF-172 "Night Owls," Carrier Air Group Five (CVG-5), being brought up to the flight deck aboard the U.S. aircraft carrier USS Essex (CV-9) on 25 August 1951. Essex was deployed to Korea from 26 June 1951 to 25 March 1952. Note the names of the plane's pilot (LT Dauphin) and the plane captain (Carter AO3) painted below the cockpit. A Sikorsky HO3S-1 helicopter of Helicopter Utility Squadron HU-1 Det. B "Pacific Fleet Angels" is visible in the background. Photo taken by AFAN T.G. Donegan. National Archives photo # 80-G-432627.

David Lange has identified his father, Donald Arthur Lange, in this photo. Donald is the man in a dark shirt, with goggles, just to the right of the plane.

Essex (CV-9) operating in the Sea of Japan with Task Force 77, 6 September 1951 (photo # 80-G-433978).

USS Essex (CV-9) at center left, unidentified carrier—possibly USS Boxer (CV-21) or USS Bon Homme Richard (CV-31)—and destroyer at right, auxiliaries in the left background. Summer 1951, near Korea.

McDonnell F2H-2 Banshee jet fighter (Bureau No. 124968), piloted by LTJG Keller, heads toward planes parked on the starboard side of the flight deck, forward, after clearing three barriers at 1823(I). The accident took place while Essex was operating off Korea on 16 September 1951.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-433492).

McDonnell F2H-2 Banshee jet fighter (Bureau No. 124968) crashes into aircraft parked on the starboard side of the flight deck (see above).

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-433493).

Explosion on the flight deck near the starboard bow, after a McDonnell F2H-2 Banshee jet fighter (Bureau No. 124968) crashed into parked aircraft in a deck landing accident (see above). The accident resulted in the loss of seven lives and four aircraft: two F2H-2s (Bureau Nos.124966 & 124968) and two F9Fs (Bureau Nos. 125128 & 125131).

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-433494).

Flames and smoke billow up from fires on the flight deck near the starboard bow, after a McDonnell F2H-2 Banshee jet fighter (Bureau No. 124968) crashed into parked aircraft in a deck landing accident (see above).

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-433497).

Fire on the flight deck near the starboard bow, after a McDonnell F2H-2 Banshee jet fighter crashed into parked aircraft (see above). Photographed from USS Boxer (CV-21), which was steaming ahead of Essex. Note other planes in the area, including an F9F at right, and plane guard destroyers steaming nearby.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-433507).

"Loaded Down—Seaman Leroy Kellam ... weighted down with belts of 20 millimeter cannon ammunition, hustles up the flight deck of USS Essex [(CV-9)] to load a waiting Banshee fighter. These same shells were spitting death at the Communists in North Korea a short time after this picture was taken."

Photograph and caption were released by Commander, Naval Forces, Far East under date of 12 October 1951.

Official U.S. Navy photograph, from the collections of the Naval History & Heritage Command (# NH 97271).

Official US Navy photograph of the flight deck crew of USS Essex (CV-9) commemorating the ship's 40,000th landing, made on October 25, 1951 by LT W. Bryant, VF-54 "Hell's Angels," in an AD Skyraider.

F9F-2 Panther, Fighter Squadron (VF) 51 "Screaming Eagles," Carrier Air Group (CVG) 5, USS Essex (CV-9), circa 1951–1952.

San Diego Air and Space Museum photo.

Fighter Squadron (VF) 172 "Night Owls" F2H-2 Banshee (BuNo 124974, modex R-205) about to trap on USS Essex (CV-9) in Korean waters, 1951–1952.

Crewmen clear snow from the carrier's flight deck, off the coast of Korea. Photo is dated 18 January 1952. Aircraft closest to camera is an AD Skyraider, with two F4U-5Ns Corsairs immediately behind it.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), # 80-G-437709.

Planes on the flight deck of USS Essex (CV-9) wait for snowy weather to break, permitting the resumption of strikes on enemy targets in Korea. Photo is dated 18 January 1952. Planes visible, many with bombs installed, include F4U-5N Corsair, F2H-2 Banshee, F9F Panther and AD Skyraider types.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), # 80-G-437710.

A sailor walks past two F9F Panther jet fighters as USS Essex (CV-9) steams through a snow storm off the coast of Korea. Photo is dated 18 January 1952. Note: Bombs on the planes' wings, loaded in preparation for a resumption of air strikes; and arrangement of tie-down cables between the wings and the flight deck.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), # 80-G-437711.

USS Essex (CV-9), Radio/Radar Antenna Arrangement and Rigging, Bow view (000°), Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, NY8-6571, (per BuShips Manual Chapter 67-44), 6 June 1952.

National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) photo, NARA id. 7578169, local identifier 19-NN-CV 9 Essex-152693.

USS Essex (CV-9), Radio/Radar Antenna Arrangement and Rigging, Starboard view fwd (135°), Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, NY8-6572, (per BuShips Manual Chapter 67-44), 6 June 1952.

National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) photo, NARA id. 7578170, local identifier 19-NN-CV 9 Essex-152694.

USS Essex (CV-9), Radio/Radar Antenna Arrangement and Rigging, Starboard view (045°), Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, NY8-6573, (per BuShips Manual Chapter 67-44), 6 June 1952.

National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) photo, NARA id. 7578171, local identifier 19-NN-CV 9 Essex-152695.

USS Essex (CV-9), Radio/Radar Antenna Arrangement and Rigging, Stern view (180°), Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, NY8-6574, (per BuShips Manual Chapter 67-44), 6 June 1952.

National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) photo, NARA id. 7578172, local identifier 19-NN-CV 9 Essex-152696.

USS Essex (CV-9), Radio/Radar Antenna Arrangement and Rigging, Starboard view aft (045°), Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, NY8-6575, (per BuShips Manual Chapter 67-44), 6 June 1952.

National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) photo, NARA id. 7578173, local identifier 19-NN-CV 9 Essex-152697.

USS Essex (CV-9), Radio/Radar Antenna Arrangement and Rigging, Port side view (225°), Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, NY8-6576, (per BuShips Manual Chapter 67-44), 6 June 1952.

National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) photo, NARA id. 7578174, local identifier 19-NN-CV 9 Essex-152698.

"Carrier-based planes give support to UN forces. Here USS Essex (CV 9) plows through Korean waters, loaded with Skyraiders, Corsairs and F2H jets." From All Hands magazine, July 1952 issue.

A U.S. Navy Grumman F9F-2 Panther (BuNo 123469, nicknamed "Papasan") attached to Fighter Squadron (VF) 71, Carrier Air Group (CVG) 7, deployed aboard USS Bon Homme Richard (CV-31) flies over Task Force 77 while engaged in operations against North Korean targets, in a photo dated 1 August 1952. The carriers were Bon Homme Richard, USS Essex (CV-9)—right—and USS Princeton (CV-37).

National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) photo (# 80-G-480645).

USS Essex (CV-9) photographed from USS John R. Craig (DD-885), probably off the coast of Japan or Korea, in the summer of 1952. Planes of Air Task Group (ATG) 2 visible in these photos are: F9F-2 Panthers from VF-821 "Kingpins" (tail code "A") and VF-23 "Flashers" ("M"), F4U-4 Corsairs from VF-871 "Griffins" ("D"), and AD-4 Skyraiders from VA-55 "Torpcats" ("S").

Photos by Richard E. Lowe, USS John R. Craig.

"(FX3-Nov. 10[, 1952]FIRE THREATENS CARRIER—An asbestos-clad sailor makes a dash for flaming navy fighter-bomber on the flight deck of the carrier Essex somewhere in Korean waters. The plane, just back from a raid over North Korea, caught fire when gasoline vapors were ignited by hot exhaust. The pilot was unhurt and fast [...] by firefighters saved the plane. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO [...] Navy Radiophoto and APWIREPHOTO)(o20945p1-usn) '52"

Note: Date of this photo has also been given as 8 November 1952, but the ship's Combat Action Report states Essex was in port, Yokosuka, Japan, 3–13 November. Either ship or dates (or all of them) are misidentified.

"Commander [Frank Anthony] Patriarca, Operations Officer in the carrier Essex (CV-9) pretends to be the character of Captain Queeg in the Herman Wouk novel The Caine Mutiny during a cruise off Korea," circa 1952.

Photo courtesy of the National Naval Aviation Museum.

USS Essex (CVA-9), circa 1952–1953.

F9F-2 Panther, Fighter Squadron (VF) 23 "Flashers," Air Task Group (ATG) 2, USS Essex, circa 1952–1953.

A photo of USS Essex in SCB-27A configuration, credited to the San Francisco Examiner and annotated as "received on 16 February 1953," but the actual date the photo was taken is not stated.

Aircraft of Air Task Group (ATG) 2 on the flight deck of USS Essex (CVA-9). The aircraft carrier and ATG-2 were deployed to the Western Pacific from 1 December 1953 to 12 July 1954. Visible are Grumman F9F-6 Cougar fighters of Fighter Squadron (VF) 143 "Kingpins" (dark blue planes, e.g. in the left foreground, tailcode "A"); F9F-5P Panther reconnaissance planes of Composite Squadron (VC) 61 Det. I "Eyes of the fleet" (dark blue, tailcode "PP"); F9F-2 Panther fighters of VF-123 "The Blue Racers" (dark blue, tailcode "D"); McDonnell F2H-3 Banshee fighters of VF-23 "Flashers" (light grey, tailcode "M"); and an F2H-3 Banshee of VC-3 Det. I "Blue Nemesis" (light grey, tailcode "NP").

U.S. Navy photo.

A United States Navy Convair R3Y-2 Tradewind demonstrating its role as a four-point tanker, accompanied by two McDonnell F2H-3 Banshees of Fighter Squadron (VF) 23 "Flashers" assigned to USS Essex (CVA-9), circa 1953–54. Photo courtesy of Convair.

Photo and partial text from United States Navy Aircraft since 1911, by Gordon Swanborough and Peter M. Bowers.

A Grumman F9F-6 Cougar of Fighter Squadron (VF) 24 "Corsairs" after having just landed aboard the aircraft carrier USS Essex (CVA-9) in 1955. Essex was on a regular deployment to the Western Pacific with Carrier Air Group (CVG) 2 from 3 November 1954 to 21 June 1955. On 9 March 1959 VF-24 would be redesignated VF-211 "Fighting Checkmates." U.S. Navy photo.

USS Taluga (AO-62) simultaneously refueling USS Arnold J. Isbell (DD-869) and USS Essex (CVA-9), circa 1954.

USS Essex (CVA-9), with embarked Carrier Air Group (CVG) 2, seen from USS Taluga (AO-62) while conducting an Underway Replenishment (UNREP), circa 1954–1955.

USS Essex (CVA-9), Yokosuka, Japan, circa 1955. Essex deployed to the Western Pacific, with Carrier Air Group (CVG) 2, 3 November 1954–21 June 1955.

USS Essex (CVA-9) WestPac 1954–55. F9F-6 Cougars from VF-24 "Corsairs" (left) and F2H-3 Banshee from VC-3 Det. A "Blue Nemesis" (right). Note pirate emblem on plane with side number 112.

USS Ashtabula (AO-51) refuels USS Essex (CVA-9) in the South China Sea, 20 January 1955, during the carrier's deployment to the Western Pacific, 3 November 1954–21 June 1955. On deck are aircraft of Carrier Air Group (CVG) 2.

National Naval Aviation Museum photo, No. 1996.488.242.011.

Essex class, forecastle.

Official US Navy photo of USS Essex (CVA-9) underway in the Pacific, 1956.

USS Essex (CVA-9), radio/radar antenna arrangement & rigging—port view (315°). Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, 1 March 1956, photo # NY8-15081.

National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), National Archives Identifier 7578175, Local Identifier 19-NN-CVA 9 Essex-154516.

USS Essex (CVA-9), radio/radar antenna arrangement & rigging—port view (225°). Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, 1 March 1956, photo # NY8-15082.

National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), National Archives Identifier 7578176, Local Identifier 19-NN-CVA 9 Essex-154517.

USS Essex (CVA-9), radio/radar antenna arrangement & rigging—starboard view (090°). Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, 1 March 1956, photo # NY8-15083.

National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), National Archives Identifier 7578177, Local Identifier 19-NN-CVA 9 Essex-154518.

USS Essex (CVA-9), radio/radar antenna arrangement & rigging—starboard view (whips aft). Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, 1 March 1956, photo # NY8-15084.

National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), National Archives Identifier 7578178, Local Identifier 19-NN-CVA 9 Essex-154519.

USS Essex (CVA-9), radio/radar antenna arrangement & rigging—starboard view (whips fwd). Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, 1 March 1956, photo # NY8-15085.

National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), National Archives Identifier 7578179, Local Identifier 19-NN-CVA 9 Essex-154520.

An interesting night photo of USS Essex (CVA-9). Date and photo credit unknown, but it would appear to have been taken at North Island Naval Air Station, San Diego, Calif., circa 1956–1957.

Underway in the East China Sea. Photo is dated 11 May 1957—probably the date it was received, since Essex had returned from her WestPac deployment on 26 January.

San Francisco Naval Shipyard – Hunters Point, Historical Shipyard Photographic Collection 1904–74 NARA Pacific Region (San Francisco).

"Summer of '57." USS Essex (CVA-9) moored at the Yokosuka Naval Station, Japan, in 1957. Painting by Wayne Scarpaci.

Entering San Francisco Bay, June 1957, shortly before departing for the Atlantic.

This A4D-2 Skyhawk (BuNo 142130, Attack Squadron [VA] 83 "Rampagers," modex AP-308, Air Task Group [ATG] 201) lost its right main landing gear wheel and tire on landing aboard USS Essex (CVA-9) and crashed into the barrier, 5 February 1958, in the North Atlantic Ocean.

The ship's deck log reads:

1600 A4D Buno 142130 damaged wheel while attempting to land. Hit and damaged mark 56 director as cleared flight deck. 1613 Rigged a barricade. 1619 Recovered the A4D in the barricade. Damage resulting in major overhaul. 1620 All remaining jet aircraft in air recovered by U.S.S. Saratoga (CVA-60).

The destroyer in the background is probably USS Robert K. Huntington (DD-781).

NS0209bda: San Diego Air & Space Museum photo.

"New screw for USS Essex (CVA-9), after installation at Hunter's Point," 1958.

USS Essex (CVA-9) off Rhodes, Greece, while on Med Cruise in 1958. The view is through the arch at the Greek Naval Sta.

USS Allagash (AO-97) refueling USS Essex (CVA-9) and USS Fiske (DDR-842) in the Mediterranean Sea. USS William R. Rush (DDR-714) follows immediately astern of Fiske. This photo was taken during the 1958 deployment (2 February–17 November).

National Naval Aviation Museum photo, # 1996.488.242.022.

"On Dress Parade," circa 1958.

"1958 Peace Patrol." On 14 July 1958 Essex, with ATG-201 embarked, was alerted to the Middle East crisis and she sped to support the US Peace Force landing in Beirut, Lebanon, launching reconnaissance and patrol missions until 20 August.

USS Essex in a photo apparently taken circa 1958, location unknown.

USS Charles H. Roan (DD-853), USS Forrest Royal (DD-872), and USS Essex (CVA-9) in Cape Town, South Africa, 1958.

Douglas A4D-2's Skyhawks from VA-83 "Rampagers," ATG-201, parked on the flight deck of USS Essex (CVA-9). Left to right: BuNos 142418, 142137, 142134.

At the time, VA-83's commanding officer was Commander James L. Holloway III, who later, as a Captain, was skipper of the nuclear carrier Enterprise (1965–67); as a four-star Admiral he was Chief of Naval Operations (1974–78).

North American AJ-2 Savages from VAH-7 "Go-Devils/Peacemakers of the Fleet," Det. 45, ATG-201, parked abaft the island of USS Essex (CVA-9). Plane on the left is BuNo 134043.

USS Essex (CVA-9) and USS Forrest Royal (DD-872).

USS Essex (CVA-9), with embarked Air Task Group (ATG) 201, transits the Suez Canal, 23 August 1958. Top: Pilot's perch. Bottom: Canal communication station.

From USS Essex 1958 Cruise Book (2 February–17 November 1958).

USS Essex (CVA-9) underway with Carrier Air Group (CVG) 10, October 1959.

USS Essex (CVA-9) with her crew manning the rail, December 16, 1959. She is followed by USS Boston (CAG-1) and two unidentified destroyers.

USS Des Moines (CA-134) and Essex hosted President Eisenhower for three days during the presidential 3-week, 22,000-mile, 11-nation trip in December 1959 (Italy, Turkey, Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, Iran, Greece, Tunisia, France, Spain and Morocco.)

Official US Navy Photograph (#USN-10463789) from the Chief of Information, Department of the Navy, Washington 25, D.C.

Underway with CVG-10 aboard, circa 1959-1960.

Official US Navy Photograph of the Attack Aircraft Carrier USS Essex (CVA-9) underway, with the crew assembled on the forward part of the flight deck for what looks to be an inspection. Circa 1959–1960, location unknown.

Underway as an ASW carrier, date and location unknown.

Record Group 428-GX, NARA II (College Park, Maryland).

A U.S. Navy Grumman F9F-8P Cougar (BuNo 144401, modex AK-971) of Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron (VFP) 62 "Fighting Photos" Det.45 after landing aboard the aircraft carrier USS Essex (CVA-9), between August 1959 and February 1960. VFP-62 Det.45 was assigned to Carrier Air Group (CVG) 10 aboard Essex for a deployment to the Mediterranean Sea from 7 August 1959 to 26 February 1960.

U.S. Navy photo from the Essex 1959–60 Cruise Book.

A U.S. Navy Grumman F9F-8P Cougar (BuNo 144421, modex AK-970) of Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron (VFP) 62 "Fighting Photos" Det.45 in flight, 12 February 1960. VFP-62 Det.45 was assigned to Carrier Air Group (CVG) 10 aboard the aircraft carrier USS Essex (CVA-9) for a deployment to the Mediterranean Sea from 7 August 1959 to 26 February 1960.

National Naval Aviation Museum photo, # 1996.253.7406.058.

"The USS Recruiter (CVR-1) is a one-twentieth scale model of an Essex class aircraft carrier will be on display at the Richland National Bank Corner, October 15 and 16. She has features of the 24 ships in this class, rather than being modeled after any individual ship."

"She was built in 1957 in the Long Beach Naval Shipyard by Naval Personnel of surplus war material and scrap. She has twice been overhauled and some modernization performed, the principal modification being an angled flight deck."

"The ship is self-propelled and is built on a stretched-out International bus chassis. She is 48 feet long, 10½ feet wide and 13½ feet high to the top of the highest radar antenna. She has two complete electrical systems in addition to that of the main propulsion engine. One system is 110 volts AC which provides power for the water pump, air compressor, telestory, PA system and lighting, both interior and exterior. The other is a 24 volt DC system which provides the power for the operating gun mounts, the radar antenna, flashing signal searchlights and plane propellers."

"It is estimated that the ship has been viewed by over four million people."

The Sidney Herald, Sidney, MT, Wednesday, 28 September 1960.

"Freedom's Guard," sometime in the 1960s.

Island of USS Essex (CVS-9), early 1960s.

"Modern Aircraft Demands Bigger Carriers — Impressive difference in the size of the old USS Essex (CVS 9) and the new Saratoga (CVA 60) is seen as they steam into Mayport, Fla., last February [Essex and Saratoga returned from the Mediterranean Sea on 26 February 1960]. The Essex began her eighteen year history as a striking arm of the Pacific Fleet after commissioning in 1942. Now, the combat-experienced Essex, like several others of her class, is outmoded as a striking force ship by the demands of modern aircraft and the necessities of fleet operations. The converted Essex is now a part of the important anti-submarine warfare forces. The modernized Essex has many features of the new Forrestal class carriers, such as angle decks, steam catapults [sic] and the landing mirror system. However, these features do not compensate for the Saratoga's size advantage. The Navy attributes the Saratoga's size advantage, and increased aviation features with the fifty-percent-fewer accident ratio over the Essex. She carries twice as much jet aircraft fuel, three to four times the number of bombs and can deliver them on target at three to four times as fast as the Essex. The Saratoga carries more aircraft and her heavier launching and arresting gear, longer flight deck and stronger decks allow her more ease in handling the stresses created by modern jets. The weight of combat aircraft has jumped to six times that of the 1940 models and landing and take-off speeds are faster. The Saratoga's ability to sustain greater speeds for a longer period give her greater tactical elusiveness. Her stability increases the all-weather capability of her air squadrons." (Quoted from the back of the photo.)

Official US Navy photograph (#USN 1048532) released by the Department of Defense, Washington, D.C., August 26, 1960.

USS Essex (CVS-9) underway, 1960.

USS Essex (CVA-9) takes spray over the bow while steaming in heavy seas, 12 January 1960. Note Grumman TF Trader airplane at the rear of the flight deck, with its engines turning, waiting for an opportunity to launch. Other planes visible, amidships, include AD Skyraider and F4D Skyray types.

Official U.S. Navy photo, from the collections of the Naval History and Heritage Command (# NH 98517).

Bow view of USS Essex (CVS-9) underway in the Atlantic Ocean, 19 November 1960, with Antisubmarine Carrier Air Group (CVSG) 60.

US Navy and Marine Corps Museum/Naval Aviation Museum, photo # 1996.488.242.033. Robert L. Lawson Photograph Collection.

The Royal Navy light cruiser HMS Bermuda (C52) underway, taking part in Operation Limejug II, an anti-submarine exercise with U.S. Navy Task Group 83.3, with the aircraft carrier USS Essex (CVS-9), and the Royal Canadian Air Force, circa 1961.

U.S. Navy photo from the Essex 1961–1962 Cruise Book.

View of the crash barrier rigged on the flight deck of the U.S. Navy anti-submarine aircraft carrier USS Essex (CVS-9), 17 July 1961. Grumman S2F-1/1S Tracker fixed-wing aircraft and Sikorsky HSS-1 Seabat helicopters from Antisubmarine Carrier Air Group (CVSG) 60 are visible on deck.

National Naval Aviation Museum photo.

"As the anti-submarine warfare carrier USS Essex (CVS-9) steamed toward a nine-day visit to Rotterdam, Holland, for the Christmas Holidays, crewmen formed the traditional Dutch equivalent of America's 'Merry Christmas' on the flight deck."

"Essex, the oldest carrier still in operation, is deployed in the Eastern Atlantic as Flagship of Task Group 83.3. Through her visits to English, Dutch and German ports, 'The Fighten'est Ship in the Fleet' is giving our allies a chance to get a first-hand look at an example of America's naval strength."

Photograph and caption were released by the ship's PIO under date of 29 December 1961. Destroyer in the middle background is USS Robinson (DD-562).

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, from the collections of the Naval Historical Center. (photo # NH 97273).

Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 9 "Sea Griffins," Antisubmarine Carrier Air Group (CVSG) 60, NAS Quonset Point, RI, circa 1962–1968. Helicopters are HSS-2/SH-3A Sea Kings, and USS Essex (CVS-9) is in the background.

St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, December 1962.

Record Group 428-GX, NARA II (College Park, Maryland).

USS Chukawan (AO-100) refueling USS Johnston (DD-821) and USS Essex (CVS-9). Since Johnston is shown in her FRAM-I configuration, this photo must have been taken after November 1962. A possible date is 28 June 1963.

USS Essex (CVS-9) transits the Suez Canal, 1963.

From USS Essex Mediterranean and Indian Ocean (Midlink VI) Cruise Book 1963 (1 October–20 December 1963).

USS Mattaponi (AO-41) refueling USS Essex (CVS-9) circa 1963. Essex, with assigned Anti-Submarine Carrier Air Group (CVSG) 60, was deployed to the Mediterranean Sea and the Indian Ocean from 1 October to 20 December 1963.

U.S. Navy photo from the Essex 1963 Cruise Book.

USS Essex (CVS-9) steaming next to the Pakistani anti-submarine frigate PNS Tughril (261)— formerly HMS Onslaught (G04)—on 22 November 1963, in the Arabian Sea. Admiral James S. Russell is being transferred during Midling VI exercises.

National Naval Aviation Museum photo (# NNAM.1996.488.242.046).

View of the flight deck of USS Essex (CVS-9), 17 December 1963. The mast collapsed the night before, during a North Atlantic storm as the ship was returning from a Mediterranean Sea deployment.

National Naval Aviation Museum (NNAM) photo, # 1996.488.242.050.

Booklet, ASW Group 4, COMCARDIV 20, USS Essex (CVS-9), "The Oldest and the Boldest," Antisubmarine Carrier Air Group (CVSG) 60, "Sub Busters," circa the mid-1960s.

These photos are part of a 26-page book.

NS0209cgc: S-2D Tracker, Anti-Submarine Squadron (VS) 34 "Proud Tigers."

NS0209cgd: USS Joseph K. Taussig (DE-1030), USS Mississinewa (AO-144), and USS Essex (CVS-9).

Underway with Antisubmarine Carrier Air Group 60 (CVSG-60), circa 1964–1965.

In June 1964 Essex took 312 midshipmen for a 7-week training cruise to Europe. Liberty calls were made at Le Havre, France; Copenhagen, Denmark; and Portsmouth, England. Here she is seen in the harbor of Copenhagen, on July 4th, 1964.

SH-3A Sea King, BuNo 152131 (modex AT64), Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 5 "Night Dippers," Antisubmarine Carrier Air Group (CVSG) 54, USS Essex (CVS-9), 1967.

This helicopter was later converted to SH-3G and SH-3H standards.

S-2E Tracker. Photo developed in July 1967.

This appears to be an A-4E Skyhawk, retrofitted with the fuselage avionics hump introduced with the A-4F model.

Shipmates. Helicopter in the background is SH-3A Sea King BuNo 152128 (modex AT-57), Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 5 "Night Dippers."

In front of one ot the two Wright Cyclone R-1820 nine-cylinder radial engines of an S-2E Tracker.

Shipmates.

E-1B Tracer, BuNo 148902(?), modex GE-730, Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 121 "Griffins" Det. 9.

Shipmates. S-2E Trackers, Anti-Submarine Squadron (VS) 32 "Norsemen" in the background.

"Picture of Italy from USS Essex flight deck."

"USS Essex—in the pilot seat—V-1 Division moving planes for launches and recovery." S-2E Tracker, Anti-Submarine Squadron (VS) 32 "Norsemen."

SH-3A Sea Kings, Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 5 "Night Dippers" and (right) C-1A Trader (Buno 146026, modex CD-026), Fleet Tactical Support Squadron (VRC) 40 "Rawhides" Det. 9. Photo dated 27 July 1967.

"William Cordna, Bruce Slocum, John Christendom"

Grumman S-2E Trackers, Antisubmarine Squadron (VS) 22 "Checkmates" (left) and VS-32 "Norsemen," Antisubmarine Carrier Air Group (CVSG) 54, USS Essex (CVS-9), 1967.

Sikorsky SH-3A Sea King, BuNo 151555, Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron (HS) 5 "Night Dippers," Antisubmarine Carrier Air Group (CVSG) 54, USS Essex (CVS-9), 1967.

USS Mississinewa (AO-144) refueling the aircraft carrier USS Essex (CVS-9) and a Dealey-class destroyer escort, probably USS Hartley (DE-1029). Essex, with embarked Anti-Submarine Carrier Air Group (CVSG) 54, was deployed to the Mediterranean Sea from June to August 1967.

U.S. Navy photo from the Essex 1967 Cruise Book.

Underway at sea during a North Atlantic Treaty Organization Mediterranean cruise, 22 June 1967. Photographed by PHCS(PJ) W.A. Jackman.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, from the collections of the Naval Historical Center. (photo # 97274).

USS Essex (CVS-9) underway in the North Atlantic, with Antisubmarine Carrier Air Group (CVSG) 54, 22 June 1967, during a NATO/Mediterranean deployment.

"PROV-01-9/24768JAMESTOWN, R.I.—SHE MADE IT—The aircraft carrier Essex glides under the Newport Bridge 9/23 [1967?] on her way to Quonset Point Naval Air Station. Smoke in background is from fire drill at Newport Naval Base training area. UPI TELEPHOTO"

An E-1B "Tracer" airborne early warning aircraft leaves the carrier's port catapult, during flight operations at sea in November 1967. Five S-2 "Tracker" anti-submarine aircraft are parked on the flight deck's starboard side.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph (# K-41696).

USS Essex (CVS-9) underway, circa 1968.

USS Essex (CVS-9) underway, circa 1968.

Close-up of the stern of ex-USS Essex (CVS-9) as she is being scrapped by the Union Minerals & Alloy Corp. The ship was sold for scrap by the Defense Reutilization and Marketing Service (DRMS) on 1 June 1975, and was towed to the site of the former Federal Shipbuilding and Drydock Company in Kearny, N.J.

"Thirty years after photographing her at war, when his cruiser USS Astoria (CL-90) kept kamikazes falling short of their target, Photographer's Mate Herman Schnipper took one last photo of USS Essex (CV-9). He shot this photo through the fence at Kearny, NJ circa 1975 as this elegant lady was in the scrapping process. It broke his heart to see the ship they had fought so valiantly to protect, now in her final days. He shot from this angle because the USS Essex nameplate remained intact, defiant to the last."

One of the 5"/38 gun mounts from ex-USS Essex (CVS-9) at the Union and Mineral Alloys Corporation scrapyard in New York, 1976. Masts seen in background is ex-USS Oregon City (CA-122).