Ship History
Built by Newport News, Virginia. Laid down December 1, 1941. Launched on April 26, 1943 Commissioned on August 16, 1943.

Wartime History
During "Operation Hailstone" February 17-18, 1944 carrier aircraft from Intrepid and USS Essex (CV-9) attacked Japanese ships at Truk Lagoon. Intrepid aircraft including TBM Avenger 25270 dropped bombs that impacted into the Aikoku Maru forward deck which was jammed with munitions. The resulting explosion nearly below the ship into half and caused it to sink instantly, claiming attacking Avenger in the blast.

On February 18, 1944 a G4M Bombers from the 755 Kokutai based on Tinian Island located the carier and one managed to score a torpedo hit against Intrepid.

On September 8, 1944 lost was TBM Avenger 16923 (MIA).

Post War
Beginning on April 9, 1952 reconstruction began at Newport News, Virginia and was completed and recommissioned on June 20, 1954 and redesignated as an attack carrier (CVA 11).

During September 1956 to May 1957 the flight deck was modernized and angled. Afterwards, redesignated as an Anti-Submarine Warfire carrier, CVS 11 on March 31, 1962.

During the Vietnam war, operated as light attack carrier. Decommissioned to reserves on March 15, 1974; the last CVS in US Navy service.

Today
Ownership transferred to Sea Air Space Museum April 27, 1981. Permenantly docked at Pier 86 at 12th Avenue and 46th Street in New York City as part of the Intrepid Sea Air Space Museum.

Contribute Information
Are you a relative or associated with any person mentioned?
Do you have photos or additional information to add?

Last Updated
February 4, 2018