Hornet and Task Force 58 began intensive operations in the Philippines and surrounding areas. Hornet participated in the Battle of Leyte Gulf, launching 2 long-range strikes against a rapidly retiring Japanese fleet and scoring hits on several capital ships. Hornet air group VF-2 had the distinction of being the top fighter squadron in the Pacific with more total victories and more “ace” pilots then any other fighter squadron up to that time. Hornet participated in the Western Carolina Islands operation with air support strikes on Peleliu. June 19īattle of the Philippine Sea where pilots from Hornet and other carriers destroyed enemy aircraft with minimal losses in what came to be known as the “Great Marianas Turkey Shoot”. USS Hornet (CV-12) was commissioned November 29, 1943, becoming the eighth ship to bear the name. “Jocko” Clark came quickly as she joined famed Task Force 58.
Her combat debut as the flagship of Rear Admiral J.J. USS Hornet left Pearl Harbor en route to the forward area.
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