To commemorate the carrier (CV-2) lost earlier in the war, The new Essex class carrier which was going to be called USS Cabot was renamed USS Lexington (CV-16). Built at Bethlehem, Quincy and laid down on the 15th september 1941, and launched 26th september 1942 finally commissioned into the us navy on 17th February 1943. In December 1943 her steering gear was damaged by a Arial torpedo, she managed to get back to Puget Sound navy Yard for repairs. Returning to action in March 1944. Took part in the Battle for the Mariana, and the famous "Turkey Shoot" her F6F's destroyed 45 enemy aircraft. USS Lexington took part in the attack on the Japanese carriers Zuikaku, Chitose and Zuiho all being sunk by Carrier aircraft. In November 1944 a kamikaze aircraft damaged her control island. taken out of service on 23rd April 1947 and ion 1st October 1952 re designated CVA-16. becoming 1963 the US navies training Carrier. still active in the 1990's as CVT. she is now in her new home of Corpus Cristi Texas for a long deserved rest.
Submitted by The Virtual Navy
Submitted by The Virtual Navy
