USS Yorktown CV-10 (1943-1975)
The Yorktown was an Essex class aircraft carrier, first commissioned in 1943. It first saw service in 1943 at the attack on Marcus Island and played a major role in the invasion of the Marshall Islands. It then became part of the battle in the South Pacific, staging raids on Gilbert Island.
The Yorktown underwent a renovation in 1944 and played a part in military operations in China, Formosa, Indochina, and the Philippines. It was damaged on March 18th of that year, but went on to assist in the attack of the Japanese ship, the Yamato.
After the War
The Yorktown was decommissioned in 1947, but underwent a modernization in 1951, whereupon it was returned to service. It was part of the East Asian battles and after more remodeling in 1953, it was able to support larger and heavier aircraft.
The vessel then became a CVS 10 battleship and was instrumental in the Far East, where it played a large role as an anti-aircraft carrier. It was a combat support ship from 1957 to1958. The Yorktown’s efforts were also noted during the Vietnam conflict.
The USS Yorktown was a major player in the movie “Tora, Tora, Tora” and was retired in 1970. It was moved to the harbor at Charleston where it remains today.
Asbestos in Navy Ships
Although an essential component of the naval fleet, even today, aircraft carriers also pose a lasting health risk to soldiers serving on them. Unfortunately, products containing asbestos were common, especially on older ships, because of the material’s high resistance to heat and fire. Despite its value as an insulator, asbestos fiber intake can lead to several serious health consequences, including mesothelioma, a devastating cancer without cure. Current and former military personnel who came into contact with these ships should seek immediate medical attention in order to detect possible health consequences associated with asbestos exposure.
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