Aircraft Carrier Duty: A Legacy of Dedication and Precision

"NOW HEAR THIS, REVEILLE!! REVEILLE, FOR ALL AIR DEPARTMENTS AND AIR GROUP PERSONNEL."

This familiar call has echoed aboard aircraft carriers for over seven decades. While the words and objectives remain unchanged, the methods used to accomplish them have evolved dramatically. However, one thing remains constant—the deep sense of pride and commitment that Naval Aviators, Flight Officers, and aviation personnel feel for serving aboard "Flattops."

One might wonder why carrier duty is so sought after, given its demanding nature, the high level of skill required, and the inherent dangers involved. Yet, it is precisely these challenges that draw sailors to the flight deck—where courage, expertise, and determination define success.

Serving aboard an aircraft carrier requires precision, devotion, and an extraordinary level of talent, as the margin for error is incredibly small. Every "Plane Pusher" dreams of trading their blue shirt for the yellow shirt of a Flight Deck Director, proudly wearing the whistle that symbolizes leadership on the deck.

The Flight Deck: A Symphony of Precision and Teamwork

As "Flight Quarters" is called, the flight deck crew gathers at Flight Deck Control to finalize aircraft spotting for launch. Plans are based on operational schedules, aircraft status, fuel loads, and armament requirements. Once the aircraft are repositioned, the next critical order is given:

"Pilots, Man Planes."

Rushing to the flight deck, flight crews conduct thorough pre-flight inspections before strapping in and awaiting further instructions. Then comes the next command from the Air Boss:

"Start Engines."

The peaceful morning is shattered by the roar of jet engines generating up to 28,000 pounds of thrust each. Pilots focus intently on the Flight Deck Director’s signals, guiding them into exact positioning for the catapult crew to attach the shuttle hook.

With the carrier turned into the wind, the final order echoes across the deck:

"Prepare to launch aircraft!"

After a final salute from the pilot, the Catapult Officer signals for launch, sending the aircraft streaking down the track and into the sky.

Recovery and Reset: The Never-Ending Flight Deck Cycle

Moments after the last aircraft is airborne, the flight deck crew immediately begins the process of repositioning aircraft for the next launch, typically one hour away.

Following the second launch cycle, the arresting gear crew readies the deck for aircraft returning from the previous mission. The next announcement from Pri-Fly:

"Stand by to recover aircraft."

One by one, aircraft trap onto the deck. As pilots taxi past Flight Deck Control, they signal whether their aircraft is "Up" (ready for the next cycle) or "Down" (requiring maintenance). This determination dictates where each aircraft is parked and secured until the next launch cycle begins.

With the final aircraft recovered, the Bos’n Mate of the Watch signals:

"NOW HEAR THIS!! SECURE FROM FLIGHT QUARTERS, SET THE REGULAR AIR DEPARTMENT INTEGRITY WATCH."

But the work doesn’t stop. Squadron maintenance crews work through the night to ensure aircraft are ready for the following day's operations.

Life Aboard a Carrier: A Round-the-Clock Operation

An aircraft carrier is more than just a floating airfield—it is a fully operational city at sea. Every sailor aboard plays a role in supporting Flight Quarters:

• The Engineering Department generates additional steam for catapult operations and provides power for aircraft elevators.

• The Supply Department ensures critical aircraft parts are available not only for the ship’s air wing but also for other units in the fleet.

• The Medical and Dental Departments adjust schedules to accommodate the unpredictable nature of flight operations.

• The Operations Department manages flight schedules and coordinates missions.

• Weapons and Gunnery/Ordnance Divisions oversee weapons loading for combat sorties.

In the late 1950s, aircraft carriers began serving meals 21 out of 24 hours each day while at sea. This provided two major benefits:

1. Crew members could eat at their convenience, ensuring operational efficiency.

2. Food waste was significantly reduced, resulting in monetary savings.

Innovations in Carrier Aviation: The Evolution of Flight Deck Operations

One of the greatest advancements in carrier aviation was the introduction of the angled flight deck.

• The USS Antietam (CV-36) became the first carrier to feature this modification.

• On January 12, 1953, the first landing on an angled deck was successfully completed by CAPT S.G. Mitchell in an SNJ trainer aircraft.

• By September 1953, the U.S. Navy adopted the angled deck as the standard configuration for all Midway-class aircraft carriers.

Additional innovations followed, further improving safety and efficiency:

• The C-11 Steam Catapult (1953): A vast improvement over the H-8 catapults, providing more powerful launches.

• The Optical Landing System (Mirror Landing System) (1955): First tested by CDR R.G. Dose on August 22, 1955, aboard the USS Bennington (CV-20). This system allowed pilots to make safer and more precise landings.

These advancements eliminated the need for barricades during landings, increased operational efficiency, and reduced flight deck accidents, making carrier aviation safer than ever before.

The Aircraft Carrier’s Global Impact

Aircraft carriers have shaped the course of military history, serving as the primary force projection tool for the U.S. Navy. Throughout history, these warships have hosted numerous dignitaries and world leaders, showcasing American military power and diplomacy:

• On January 10, 1954, Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek spent four hours aboard the USS Wasp (CVA-18)observing simulated air war maneuvers.

• Shortly after, Philippine President Ramon Magsaysay visited the carrier, hosted by U.S. Ambassador Raymond A. Spruance.

From the battlefields of World War II to modern global conflicts, the aircraft carrier has redefined naval warfare, proving to be the most powerful maritime asset ever created.

Conclusion: A Tribute to the Aircraft Carrier Legacy

Aircraft carriers continue to carry the burden of global defense and power projection, standing as symbols of American strength and readiness. The dedication, skill, and sacrifice of the men and women who work tirelessly on the flight deck ensure the success of every mission.

With their unmatched capabilities, aircraft carriers have influenced the outcome of war more than any other naval weapon—a testament to their enduring legacy.

Courtesy of LCDR C. W. “Tex” Holland, USN (Ret.)

USS Wasp (CV/CVA/CVS-18) Association
Submitted by YNCS Don Harribine, USN (Ret.)