Two legendary ships shared one name and defined the Pacific War's naval air combat.

USS Hornet: The Legendary Aircraft Carrier of WWII · 17:31 · Video: Kings and Generals · Watch at the source

In short: This video chronicles the dual legacy of the USS Hornet carriers. From the daring Doolittle Raid to the decisive Battle of Midway, discover how these vessels became icons of the American fleet through resilience and strategic air power in the Pacific theater.

The first USS Hornet, commissioned as CV-8, served as a cornerstone of early Pacific operations. Her career included the famous Doolittle Raid and the pivotal Battle of Midway. Her service concluded at the Battle of Santa Cruz, where she sustained heavy damage and was subsequently scuttled.

The name lived on through the USS Hornet CV-12, which surpassed the original's record. As part of Task Force 58, the second carrier participated in major engagements, including the Battle of the Philippine Sea, where American forces achieved a lopsided aerial victory. These ships remain symbols of the tactical innovation and bravery that shaped the outcome of the Second World War.

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