The USS Savo Island (CVE-78) was a Casablanca-class escort carrier commissioned during World War II. Construction began on November 27, 1943, at the Kaiser Shipyards in Vancouver, Washington, a shipbuilding hub of the time. The carrier was launched on March 22, 1944, and entered service on May 3 of that year. Its creation was part of a broader effort to strengthen the U.S. Navy's carrier fleet for operations in the Pacific Theater. The Casablanca-class carriers, designed for mass production, played a crucial role in providing air support for naval and amphibious operations.
The USS Savo Island was named in honor of the Battle of Savo Island, which took place from August 8 to 9, 1942, during the Guadalcanal Campaign. This battle, an early encounter between Allied and Imperial Japanese forces, was a setback for the Allies but underscored the growing importance of air power and carrier-based operations in the Pacific War. By naming the carrier after this battle, the Navy honored the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought, while also emphasizing the strategic value of air superiority.
As a Casablanca-class escort carrier, the USS Savo Island was designed to be smaller, more cost-effective, and easier to mass-produce than fleet carriers. The ship measured 512 feet in length and 65 feet in width, with a flight deck capable of accommodating up to 27 aircraft, including fighters and torpedo bombers. Powered by two Skinner Unaflow reciprocating steam engines, it could reach speeds of up to 19 knots. The ship's armament included a 5-inch/38 caliber dual-purpose gun, eight 40mm anti-aircraft guns, and twelve 20mm anti-aircraft cannons, providing it with both offensive and defensive capabilities.
The USS Savo Island made a significant impact during World War II, contributing to major operations such as the Battle of Leyte Gulf, where it provided vital air support during the invasion of the Philippines. The carrier’s aircraft played a key role in attacking enemy vessels, protecting ground troops, and conducting submarine patrols. For its service, the ship earned five battle stars, a testament to its effectiveness and the bravery of its crew.
The Savo Island was one of 50 escort carriers built under the Casablanca class, which was developed to address specific wartime needs. These carriers were particularly effective in convoy protection, close air support, and anti-submarine warfare—missions that were critical to the success of the U.S. Navy in the Pacific. The versatility of the Casablanca-class carriers helped shape U.S. naval strategy and was a key factor in the eventual victory in the Pacific.
Entering service under Captain Herbert W. Taylor on May 3, 1944, the USS Savo Island quickly became operational in the Pacific Theater. The crew underwent extensive training to ensure they were prepared for the challenges of combat. Once deployed, the carrier played a vital role in expanding the Navy's operational reach and providing much-needed air support. The USS Savo Island's commissioning was a demonstration of America's industrial strength and military readiness during the global conflict.
Steel Guardian of the Pacific: Unveiling the Structure, Technology, and Armament of USS Savo Island CVE-78
In Section II, we explore the USS Savo Island (CVE-78), a Casablanca-class escort carrier that demonstrated remarkable versatility and durable construction during World War II. With an overall length of 512 feet 3 inches, a beam of 65 feet 2 inches, and a draft of 22 feet 6 inches, the ship’s welded steel hull provided both the strength and flexibility needed for combat operations at sea. The flight deck, constructed with wood planking over a steel frame, was designed to accommodate a range of aircraft, including fighters, bombers, and reconnaissance planes. Beneath the flight deck, the hangar deck provided essential space for aircraft maintenance and storage, enabling the ship to support extended missions.
On the forward part of the ship, the USS Savo Island featured advanced radar and communication systems for its time. Key systems included the SC-2 air search radar and SG surface search radar, which were crucial for detecting enemy aircraft and ships, providing vital early warning signals. In addition, the YE homing beacon helped returning aircraft locate the carrier, particularly during challenging weather conditions or nighttime operations. The ship was equipped with high-frequency radio transmitters and receivers to maintain reliable communication with other ships and command centers, essential for coordinating complex naval operations and ensuring operational effectiveness in combat.
For defense, the USS Savo Island was equipped with a robust armament designed to protect it from both surface and aerial threats. The ship's primary weapon was a 5-inch/38 caliber dual-purpose gun, capable of engaging both aircraft and surface targets. The vessel also featured eight twin-mounted 40mm Bofors anti-aircraft guns and twelve 20mm Oerlikon cannons, offering strong protection against enemy aircraft, which was vital for safeguarding the ship during aircraft deployment and recovery operations. These weapons created a formidable defensive perimeter around the carrier, enhancing its role as a key asset in the fleet.
Beyond its onboard armament, the USS Savo Island's aircraft complement further expanded its combat capabilities. Typically carrying between 28 and 34 aircraft, the carrier's air group included Grumman F4F Wildcat or FM-2 Wildcat fighters, as well as Grumman TBF Avenger torpedo bombers. These aircraft were equipped with machine guns, bombs, and torpedoes, enabling them to engage in air combat, ground attacks, and anti-submarine operations. The adaptability and firepower of the air group significantly augmented the carrier's offensive capabilities, extending its reach beyond the ship’s own weapons.
With its combination of robust construction, cutting-edge technology, and an array of powerful weapons, the USS Savo Island proved to be a valuable asset in the U.S. Navy’s arsenal during World War II, contributing significantly to the success of naval operations throughout the conflict.
USS Savo Island CVE-78 Crew Member Reports of Time Aboard
The USS Savo Island (CVE-78) holds a special place in the hearts of many who served aboard her during World War II. The memories shared by the crew and their families paint a vivid picture of life on this escort carrier, affectionately known as the "Battle Baby."
**William A'Hearn** served in 1943 and worked with the catapult, though he rarely spoke of his service. **Bennie Alberson** also served in 1942, and his family is eager to learn more about his time on the ship. **Frederick Allen** was a gunner on an Avenger, and his family seeks more information about his service.
**Troy Bond** and **Collis Bosworth** were both part of Squadron VC-27, with Bosworth serving as an aerial gunner in a Grumman Avenger. They have group pictures from the 1940s and a reunion in 1995. **Joseph H. Boucher** is looking forward to a trip to the WWII Memorial in Washington, D.C., through Honor Flight.
**Richard Braun** served during WWII but, like many, did not speak much about his experiences. **John Bray** participated in the invasions of Okinawa and Guam and witnessed the Japanese surrender. **Richard Carroll's** grandson is writing a book about the ship's service and seeks stories from other crew members.
**Joseph Chenier** served in 1945, and his family would love to hear from anyone who remembers him. **Jerry Chidester** is still living in Salt Lake City, and his family entered his information. **Peter Chippi** crossed the 180th Meridian in 1944, a significant naval milestone.
**Ernie Combs** was an aviation machinist's mate, and his family misses him dearly. **Ludovic David** worked in the engine room and has an album full of pictures from the ship. **Richard Davidson** also worked in the forward engine room and now lives in Ohio.
**William Diffee** was a pilot and landing signal officer, remembered fondly by his cousin. **Kenneth Donnenwirth** celebrated 65 years of marriage and now lives in Rapid City, S.D. **Ralph E. Elliott** is in an assisted living facility in Orlando, Florida, and his health is good despite memory issues.
**Ralph Finkner** chose not to accept a promotion to avoid delaying his discharge. He has two children and now lives in Ohio. **Elwin Fontenot** passed away in 2002, and his family seeks to learn more about his service. **George Gustafson**, known as "Gus," served for 23 years in the Navy but spent only 18 months aboard the Savo Island.
**Robert Hanes** has a copy of the "Battle Baby," a book with many pictures of the crew. **Joseph I. Heidotting** was an assistant paymaster and shared some stories with his family. **Matthew Hills** served as an aviation radioman, and his daughter hopes to learn more about his experiences.
**Wally Hook** passed away in 2004, and his family would love to hear from anyone who knew him. **Howard Houle** worked at 3M for 34 years and now lives in Anoka, Minnesota. **Donald Hull** was a plane captain and organized reunions for the ship and Squadron VC-27.
**Ralph R. Humes** served as the ship's executive officer and later commanding officer until its decommissioning. **Harry Hyatt** operated the arresting gear and had a successful life with a wonderful family. **Bob Jackson**'s brother was the commanding officer of VC-27, and he wrote a story about the squadron and the ship.
**Arbie Kellas** passed away in 2014, and his family would like to hear from anyone who served with him. **Lloyd Leblanc** was a tail gunner for the VC-27 Flying Saints and now lives in Madisonville, LA. **Thomas MacKie** rarely spoke of his experiences, and his family seeks to connect with those who remember him.
**Raymond Myslicki** passed away in 2011, and his family wants to honor his memory. **Joseph Leo Neal** named his son after a shipmate, Bennie Alberson, and his family would like to hear from anyone who remembers him. **Edmund Needham** kept a scrapbook of his time on the ship and stayed in touch with some friends.
**Jim O'Brien**'s family knows little about his service and would appreciate any shared memories. **Larry Joe Parker**'s family has his "Battle Baby" ship book and honors his memory. **Joe Pierce** is alive and well, and his family enjoys hearing his recollections from the Pacific.
**John E. Robbins**' grandson is still piecing together his service details. **Alfred Schlumbrecht** is alive and well in Covington, Louisiana. **Robert Shape** was a Wildcat pilot and currently lives in Florida.
**William Smith**'s family honors his memory and seeks to hear from anyone who knew him. **Eric Stitt** created an account for his great-grandfather, Clyde Elmer Short. **Thomas Thompson**'s family hopes to connect with anyone who remembers him.
**John Trenka** still lives in Pennsylvania and remembers several men who served with him. **Joseph Vaccaro**'s family added his name to the crew list in his memory. **Arthur Wall** was a police officer and later a police chief, now living in Friendship.
**Owen Westberry** served as a signalman and passed away in 1985. **Larry Witt** served in 1975 and had great duty stations at NSA Seattle and the USS Chicago. **William Young**'s family honors his memory and seeks to hear from anyone who knew him.
These memories and stories shared by the crew and their families provide a rich tapestry of life aboard the USS Savo Island, reflecting the camaraderie, bravery, and sacrifices of those who served.
USS Savo Island CVE-78: Evolution of a Naval Workhorse and Its Legacy in Maritime Warfare
The aircraft of the USS Savo Island played a key role in providing air support during critical amphibious landings at Leyte and Okinawa. The carrier’s ability to launch and recover aircraft under varying sea conditions was essential for the Navy’s efforts to maintain air superiority and support ground forces. The ship made significant contributions to the fleet’s success, particularly in the Battle off Samar, a key engagement in the larger Battle of Leyte Gulf. In this battle, the USS Savo Island and its air group were pivotal in repelling a much larger Japanese surface fleet. Despite the overwhelming enemy firepower and numerical advantage, aircraft from the Savo Island and other escort carriers launched a series of attacks on the Japanese ships, contributing to their eventual retreat. This engagement demonstrated the vital role of escort carriers in providing responsive, flexible air power in the face of formidable opposition.
The Savo Island's exceptional performance during the Battle off Samar earned it several honors, including the prestigious Presidential Unit Citation. Beyond its combat successes, the carrier also enhanced the Navy’s readiness and strategic reach. Its ability to operate effectively in diverse environments—from the cold waters of the North Pacific to the warm, tropical seas of the South Pacific—highlighted its versatility and endurance. Additionally, the USS Savo Island served as a crucial training platform, helping to prepare aviators and support staff for the challenges of combat. By providing essential training and contributing to the Navy’s operational readiness, the ship played a key role in ensuring that sailors and pilots were prepared for the demands of war.
The historical significance of the USS Savo Island lies in its vital contribution to the U.S. Navy’s success in World War II. As a robust and versatile escort carrier, it was instrumental in securing maritime superiority, offering a combination of defensive strength and flexible air power that was crucial to victory in the Pacific.
USS Savo Island CVE-78: A Vanguard of Valor in the Theater of War
The USS Savo Island (CVE-78) played a vital role in several key missions during World War II, demonstrating the flexibility and strategic value of escort carriers. Launched in February 1944, the vessel was quickly deployed to the Pacific Theater, where it immediately became involved in critical operations. Its first major assignment was during the Mariana and Palau Islands campaign, where it provided crucial air support for ground troops and conducted submarine patrols. The aircraft launched from the Savo Island were instrumental in weakening enemy defenses, ensuring the success of amphibious landings, and underscoring the indispensable role of air power in modern naval warfare.
Throughout the war, the USS Savo Island remained an active participant in Allied operations. In October 1944, during the historic Battle of Leyte Gulf, the carrier’s aircraft were pivotal in repelling Japanese forces. Its planes launched attacks on enemy ships, provided air protection for the invasion fleet, and played a significant role in the liberation of the Philippines. The battle highlighted the crucial role of escort carriers in delivering rapid and flexible air support—a responsibility that the Savo Island executed with distinction.
In addition to its combat missions, the USS Savo Island also contributed to post-war efforts, including transporting American troops and prisoners of war. Its dependability and versatility proved essential in these operations, ensuring the safe return of countless service members. Over the course of its service, the Savo Island proved that escort carriers were not only effective in combat but could also play a key role in humanitarian missions, further cementing their importance in naval history.
The exceptional performance of the USS Savo Island did not go unnoticed. The ship earned five battle stars for its service in World War II, among other honors and commendations. These awards reflect the courage and dedication of the ship’s crew, who faced dangerous and challenging situations with remarkable valor. The enduring legacy of the USS Savo Island is preserved through historical records and naval accounts, ensuring that the contributions of the ship and its crew will be remembered for generations to come.
USS Savo Island CVE-78 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Casablanca Class Escort Aircraft Carrier |
| Commissioned | February 3, 1944 |
| Displacement | 10,902 tons |
| Length | 512 feet |
| Beam | 108.1 feet |
| Draft | 22.6 feet |
| Speed | 20 knots |
| Complement | 860 |