USS Enterprise Strikes Back | Battle 360 (S1, E6) | Full Episode

Summary

The script recounts the USS Enterprise's pivotal role in World War II, detailing its refit and deployment in the Pacific theater. From the Battle of Guadalcanal to the Gilbert Islands campaign, the 'Grey Ghost' and her crew face numerous challenges, including night attacks and the loss of ace pilot Butch O'Hare. The narrative underscores the ship's significance and the strategic evolution of the US Navy in the central Pacific.

Takeaways

• 🛥️ The USS Enterprise, also known as the 'Big E' or 'Grey Ghost,' was a central figure in numerous WWII naval battles in the Pacific, playing a crucial role in the Battle of Guadalcanal and the Gilbert Islands campaign.
• 🔧 After sustaining damage in previous battles, the Enterprise underwent significant refitting and upgrades, including new weapons, planes, and a protective torpedo blister, to enhance its combat capabilities.
• 👷‍♂️ The crew of the Enterprise was a mix of seasoned veterans and new recruits, reflecting the broader shift in the US Navy as the war progressed, with many fresh faces joining the battle-tested sailors.
• 💥 The script highlights the intensity and danger of night combat, as well as the innovative tactics employed by the US forces, such as the first-ever night air operation launched from an American carrier.
• 🏆 Navy ace Butch O'Hare, the first naval ace of WWII and a Medal of Honor recipient, led the experimental night air operation, unfortunately resulting in his disappearance and presumed death.
• 🎖️ The Enterprise was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation, the highest honor for a ship in the US Navy, reflecting its exceptional service and the recognition of its crew's bravery.
• 🛰️ Technological advancements, such as radar-controlled directors for anti-aircraft guns, significantly improved the defensive capabilities of the Enterprise and American naval forces.
• 🔫 The introduction of the F6F Hellcat fighter plane was a game-changer for the US Navy, providing a formidable match for the Japanese Zero and offering superior speed and firepower.
• 🌅 The Gilbert Islands campaign marked a strategic stepping stone in the central Pacific campaign, with the capture of Makin Atoll being a significant milestone in the push towards the Marianas.
• 🚢 The narrative emphasizes the importance of teamwork and coordination among different units of the US Navy, including aircraft carriers, battleships, cruisers, and destroyers, in executing complex naval operations.
• 🌃 The vulnerability of ships at night and the subsequent development of night combat strategies underscore the evolving nature of warfare and the need for continuous adaptation to maintain tactical advantage.

Q & A

What was the significance of the Battle of Guadalcanal for USS Enterprise?

The Battle of Guadalcanal marked a significant event for USS Enterprise as it was a major confrontation with the Japanese navy where the ship had been involved in intense warfare and was later refitted with new weapons and planes to continue its operations in the Pacific.

What was the nickname given to USS Enterprise by many sailors and why?

Many sailors referred to USS Enterprise as the 'Grey Ghost' due to its elusive nature in combat, having survived numerous battles and continued to haunt the imperial navy.

How did USS Chicago find itself in a vulnerable position during the night attack?

USS Chicago found itself in a vulnerable position as it was hit by two torpedoes, causing it to grind to a halt, take on water, and start to list at the stern, making it an easy target for further enemy attacks.

What was the role of the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise during the rescue of USS Chicago?

USS Enterprise's role during the rescue of USS Chicago was to provide air support by sending planes to fly protection over the wounded cruiser until it could be towed from the battlefield.

What was the significance of the F6F Hellcat fighter plane introduced during the Gilbert Islands campaign?

The F6F Hellcat was a significant addition as it was a new weapon that could outmatch the Japanese Zero in speed and firepower, changing the dynamics of air combat in the Pacific theater.

Who was Butch O'Hare and what was his contribution to the US Navy?

Butch O'Hare was a US Navy ace and a recipient of the Medal of Honor. He was known for his fearless leadership and was in command of the new Hellcat fighter squadron introduced during the Gilbert Islands campaign.

What was the strategy behind the night air operation launched from USS Enterprise on November 26, 1943?

The strategy was to defend USS Enterprise and her task force from Japanese nighttime attacks by using a radar-equipped Avenger to locate enemy planes and guide Hellcat fighters to intercept them.

What was the outcome of the first night air interception mission led by Butch O'Hare?

The mission successfully halted a Japanese night attack on the task force, but at the cost of Butch O'Hare's life, as he went missing in action and was never found.

How did the Gilbert Islands campaign demonstrate the changing tide of the war in the Pacific?

The Gilbert Islands campaign showed the US Navy's increasing power and ability to deliver a faster and more decisive blow to the Japanese forces, marking a shift from the prolonged struggles seen in earlier battles like Guadalcanal.

What was the significance of the USS Enterprise receiving the Presidential Unit Citation?

The Presidential Unit Citation is the highest honor that can be given to a ship in the US Navy, and USS Enterprise was the first American ship to receive this award, recognizing its exceptional service and heroism during the war.

How did the USS Enterprise contribute to the success of the invasion of Makin Atoll?

USS Enterprise contributed by launching relentless airstrikes with Hellcats, bombers, and torpedo planes that weakened the Japanese defenses, allowing US ground forces to successfully invade and secure the atoll.