The name Constellation alludes to the Flag Resolution of 14 June 1777, which stated:

""Resolved: that the flag of the United States be made of thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new Constellation."

Previous ships named Constellation:

1. A frigate
2. A sloop-of-war

Image: Early flags of the United States, (top) Francis Hopkinson's flag for the U.S. Navy; (bottom) the so-called Betsy Ross variant.

The future USS Constellation (CVA-64) in the early stages of her construction.

Constellation (CVA-64) under construction at the New York Naval Shipyard, Brooklyn, N.Y., in 1960. The original print bears the rubber-stamped date 4 October 1960.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, from the collections of the Naval Historical Center (# NH 98608).

Constellation (CVA-64) was christened on Saturday, 8 October 1960, by Mrs. Christian A. Herter, wife of the Secretary of State.

Tragedy struck the ship in the last stages of her building. On Monday, 19 December 1960, a catastrophic fire caused the loss of 50 workers, plus $75 million in damages and a seven-month delay in her construction.

"(NY33) NEW YORK, Dec. 19 [, 1960]—REMOVE INJURED WORKMAN—Policemen—one holding mask over the injured man's face—prepare to remove workman from the scene of fire today aboard carrier Constellation in Brooklyn Navy Yard. At right is body of a victim of the blaze that swept the unfinished carrier. (AP Wirephoto)"

"(NY26) NEW YORK, Dec. 21 [, 1960]—GUTTED INTERIOR OF CARRIER—This is general view of hangar deck of fire-ravaged aircraft carrier Constellation in Brooklyn Navy Yard, New York, today—two days after fire swept the unfinished super carrier and caused an estimated $75 million damage. Men are at work on the deck inspecting and cleaning up the gutted interior. The fire started when volatile fuel leaked from tank located in vicinity of the cluster of lights, at center. Part of insulation hangs from ceiling and in front of wooden scaffolding that stretches above deck from right to left. (AP Wirephoto)"

Newspaper clippings related to christening and fire, and a better copy of one of the photos.

More newspaper clippings related to fire, 19 December 1960.

Fire aboard Constellation (CVA-64), 19 December 1960.

Damage, 22 December 1960.

A plaque in the hangar bay remembered the names of the 50 workers who lost their lives on 19 December 1960.

(Photo by Tom Armstrong, 1998.)

Press release No. 1475-60, 20 December 1960.

Press release No. 6-61, 4 January 1961.

Newspaper clips, 8 October 1960 and 12 August 1961.

Newspaper clips, December 1960–January 1961.

"USS Constellation, Propellers, 32 tons"

Date unknown.

"Commissioning Ceremony, October 27, 1961, New York Naval Shipyard, Brooklyn, New York"

"United States Ship, Constellation, Commissioning Ceremony" Program.

Small overhead image.

USS Constellation (CVA-64) underway, date and location unknown.

CAPT Thomas J. Walker III, Constellation's Commanding Officer, discussing the 6 November 1961 fire aboard his ship while at sea with the press, upon Connie's return to Brooklyn Naval Shipyard for repairs. RADM Ernest C. Holtzworth, Commander of Brooklyn Naval Shipyard, is in the background.

"During a test run from Norfolk to New York, a fire in the machinery room of aircraft carrier USS Constellation (CVA-64) killed four men and injured nine others. 6 November 1961". (Quoted from "Casualties: US Navy and Marine Corps Personnel Killed and Injured in Selected Accidents and Other Incidents Not Directly the Result of Enemy Action.")

USS Constellation (CVA-64) fitted out and ran sea trials in late 1961 and early 1962. On 25 January 1962, the aircraft carrier departed US Naval Shipyard, Brooklyn, NY, en route to Norfolk, VA, and initial air operations off the Virginia Capes.

On the open bridge. Left to right: CDR Charles K. Ruiz, XO (until June 1962); CAPT Thomas J. Walker, III, CO; CDR William A. Racette, ship's Navigator (until June 1962, then XO.)

USS Constellation (CVA-64) underway, in a photo dated 26 January 1962, during her shakedown cruise.

"CARRIER GETS SCROLL—The USS Constellation, Navy's newest aircraft carrier, will sail with a miniature Torah scroll housed in an Ark in the wardroom chapel. Sanford Solender, executive vice president, National Jewish Welfare Board, presents Torah To Cmdr. Paul W. Reigner, ship's senior chaplain. Others are Ens. M. S. Gitson (left) and crewman."

The Phoenix Jewish News, Friday, 23 February 1962.

USS Constellation (CVA-64) about to pass under the Brooklyn Bridge, 12 July 1962, as she leaves Brooklyn, New York, bound for her new homeport, San Diego, California. Note Connie's tilted mast, and the city of New York in the background.

"Farewell, Big Apple."

At 1511 on Monday, 6 August 1962, A3D-2 Skywarrior Buno 138947 (modex NK-207), Heavy Attack Squadron (VAH) 10 "Vikings" Det. B, pilot LT John W. Turley, crashed into barricade after engaging arresting wire. Crew of the aircraft sustained no injuries. Damage to aircraft: minor. (From the ship's deck log.)

(On Tuesday, 25 May 1965, this aircraft was lost over the bow, port side, of USS Oriskany (CVA-34), on a catapult shot in the Gulf of Tonkin. All four crew members were rescued. By then, this Skywarrior had been redesignated A-3B and was flying with VAH-4 "Fourrunners" Det. G, modex ZB-10.)

NS0264cu: National Naval Aviation Museum photo, # 1996.253.3682.

NS0264cua: Photo from the USS Constellation (CVA-64) 1963 WestPac Cruise Book.

Official US Navy Photograph of USS Constellation (CVA-64), with Diamond Head and Honolulu astern. She is heading for Pearl Harbor during her first Western Pacific Deployment (21 February–10 September 1963). Carrier Air Group (CVG) 14, tailcode "NK," was embarked and consisted of the following squadrons and aircraft (listed in the order of their Modex):

• VF-141 "Iron Angels," F-8E Crusader
• VAH-10 "Vikings," A-3B Skywarrior
• VF-143 "Pukin' Dogs," F-4B Phantom II
• VA-144 "Roadrunners," A-4C Skyhawk
• VA-145 "Swordsmen," A-1H/J Skyraider
• VA-146 "Blue Diamonds," A-4C Skyhawk
• VFP-63 Det F "Eyes of the Fleet," RF-8A Crusader
• VAW-11 Det F "Early Eleven," E-1B Tracer
• HU-1 Det F "Pacific Fleet Angels," UH-2B Seasprite

An F-4B Phantom II from Fighter Squadron (VF) 143 "Pukin Dogs," BuNo 149432, modex NK313, and an F-8E Crusader intercept a Soviet Tupolev Tu-95K reconnaissance plane (known to NATO as Bear). The Crusader was possibly assigned to VF-141 "Iron Angels." This photo is believed to have been taken in early 1963. At that time, both VF-141 and VF-143 were part of Carrier Air Group (CVG) 14, deployed to the Western Pacific aboard USS Constellation (CVA‑64).

According to the ship's 1997 Cruise Book: "July 13, 1963. A Terrier missile fires from Constellation in exercises conducted off the coast of Okinawa."

Head on view of USS Constellation (CVA-64) underway, with Carrier Air Group (CVG) 14, dated 15 August 1963. Official U.S. Navy photo # 1094887 by D.P. Perret, PHC.

"Underway view of USS Constellation (CVA-64)." From the NAVSEA Journal.

Circa 1963-1965.

Two A-4C Skyhawk aircraft, of Attack Squadron (VA) 146 "Blue Diamonds," fly past USS Kearsarge (CVS-33), 12 August 1964. These planes, from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14, are Bureau #s 149551 and 149570.

CVW-14's aircraft, deployed aboard USS Constellation (CVA-64), had attacked North Vietnamese torpedo boat bases at Hon Gay and Loc Chao on 5 August (Operation Pierce Arrow), following the Tonkin Gulf incidents.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, # USN 1107965, from the Naval History & Heritage Command (NHHC).

Saturday, 19 September 1964. "ON SPECIAL ALERT IN VIET NAM AREA—Units of the U.S. Seventh Fleet were placed on special alert today after reports of a new incident in the Gulf of Tonkin off North Viet Nam. The U.S. aircraft carrier Constellation, part of the Seventh Fleet, is shown last Sunday, her flight deck jammed with atack bombers, as she stood by off Saigon during the unsuccessful coup d'etat against regime of Premier Nguyen Khanh. (AP Wirephoto)(tdi171030fls)"

USS Manatee (AO-58) and USS Coontz (DLG-9) alongside USS Constellation (CVA-64) during Typhoon Dot, October 1964. Digitized from an 8-mm movie.

Several Carrier Air Wing 14 (CVW-14) aircraft, particularly Fighting Squadron 143 (VF-143) "Pukin Dogs" F-4B Phantom IIs, can be seen on Connie's flight deck. CVW-14 planes had taken part in Operation Pierce Arrow, August 5, 1964 the retaliatory strikes on North Vietnamese PT boat bases following attacks on USN destroyers Maddox (DD-731) and Turner Joy (DD-951).

Typhoon Dot, 36th storm of the 1964 Pacific typhoon season, hit northern Luzon, Philippines on October 9 as an 80 mph (129 km/h) storm. It continued northwestward, and reached a peak of 100 mph (161 km/h) before hitting near Hong Kong on October 13. (Typhoon track image courtesy of Wikipedia).

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USS Constellation (CVA-64) underway at sea, circa the later 1960s. Planes on deck (including A-3, RA-5C, A-6, A-7 and F-4 types) wear "NK" tail letters (Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14).

Official U.S. Navy photograph, from the collections of the Naval History & Heritage Command (# NH 98609).

USS Constellation (CVA-64), USS Kitty Hawk (CVA-63), and USS Ticonderoga (CVA-14), at Naval Air Station North Island, San Diego, California. The photo was possibly taken in the late 1960s, as Constellation returned from a deployment.

"We go to the rapprochement with the aircraft carrier" USS Constellation (CVA-64)—Kitty Hawk?—in the 1960s, during the Vietnam War.

From the archive of A.L. Moiseev, courtesy of the Veterans of the 38th Brigade of Ships of the Red Flag Pacific Fleet website.

"We met with them." "Aircraft carrier." Appears to be USS Constellation (CVA-64) in the late 60s–early 70s, during the Vietnam War.

Courtesy of the Veterans of the 38th Brigade of Ships of the Red Flag Pacific Fleet website.

A North American RA-5C Vigilante of Reconnaissance Attack Squadron (RVAH) 12 "Speartips" beginning its reconnaissance flight off North Vietnam in 1967. RVAH-12 was assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14 aboard the aircraft carrier USS Constellation (CVA-64) for a deployment to Vietnam, 29 April–4 December 1967. U.S. Navy photo from the USS Constellation 1967 cruise book.

Same aircraft as above, about to launch from USS Constellation (CVA-64).

From Constellation's 1967 Cruise Book.

Various U.S. Navy aircraft of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14 on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Constellation (CVA-64) during a deployment to Vietnam from 29 April to 4 December 1967. In the foreground are: a North American RA-5C Vigilante (BuNo 149300) from Reconnaissance Attack Squadron (RVAH) 12 "Speartips"; a Douglas A-4C Skyhawk (BuNo 149579, "City of Selma") from Attack Squadron (VA) 146 "Blue Diamonds"; a black-painted Douglas RA-3B Skywarrior (BuNo 144847) from Heavy Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron (VAP) 61 "World Recorders"; an A-4C (BuNo 149508) from VA-55 "Warhorses"; and a Grumman A-6A Intruder (BuNo 152637) from VA-196 "Main Battery." USN Photo.

U.S. Navy National Museum of Naval Aviation photo No. 1996.253.3812.

"CAPT J[ohn] M[ax] Thomas, CO of the USS Constellation, and CAPT C[harlie] N[eal] Conatser, Chief of Staff of CTF-77/ComCarDiv 5, stand on the flight deck of the USS Constallation (CVA-64)."

Photo # CVA-64-16351-10-67, by PH2 R.J. Lincoln, 31 October 1967.

USS Constellation (CVA-64) entering San Diego on Sunday, 18 February 1968, as seen from Point Loma.

Mic Hamilton writes: "A gaggle of jets. [Carrier Air Wing] 14 over USS Constellation (CVA-64). Mix of A-7s, F-4s, A-6s, with an A-3 in trail."

"Photo either June 1968 or August ‘69 during work ups/exercise off Hawaii prior to heading to Tonkin Gulf. I’m in the mix."

A 17-picture set of an UNREP conducted during WestPac '68, 29 May 1968–31 January 1969. Fleet oiler USS Hassayampa (AO-145) refuels USS Constellation (CVA-64) and guided-missile frigate (later destroyer) USS Coontz (DLG-9), as seen from destroyer USS Jenkins (DD-447). Judging from the ships' operational chronologies, the most likely date is mid-December 1968 or early January 1969.

The Air Wing for this cruise was Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14, tail code "NK," made up of the following squadrons:

• VAH-10 "Vikings," Det. 64, with KA-3B Skywarriors.
• VAW-13 "Zappers," Det. 64, with EKA-3B Skywarriors.
• RVAH-5 "Savage Sons," with RA-5C Vigilantes.
• VF-142 "Ghosriders," with F-4B Phantom IIs.
• VF-143 "Pukin Dogs," with F-4B Phantom IIs.
• VA-196 "Main Battery," with A-6A & B Intruders.
• VA-97 "Warhawks," with A-7A Corsair IIs.
• VA-27 "Royal Maces," with A-7A Corsair IIs.
• VAW-113 "Black Eagles," with E-2A Hawkeyes.
• HC-1 "Pacific Fleet Angels," Det. 64, with UH-2C Sea Sprites.

EKA-3B Skywarrior (BuNo 144657, modex NK112), from VAW-13 Det. 64 "Zappers," refuels an A-7A Corsair II from VA-27 "Royal Maces" off Vietnam, circa 1968. Both squadrons were part of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14.

BuNo 144657's side number was changed to 116, then to 106. VAW-13 was redesignated VAQ-130 on 1 October 1968.

US Navy photo.

This aircraft was later shot down by flak near Ban Dakpok, 50 km north Muang Fangdeng, Laos, on 7 April 1970 while still in service with VA-97. The pilot ejected and was rescued by helicopter.

National Naval Aviation Museum photo, # 1996.253.7093.006.

Two U.S. Navy Grumman A-6A Intruders (BuNo 154155, NK412, and BuNo 154148, NK403) from Attack Squadron (VA) 196 "Main Battery" dropping Mk-82 227 kg (500 lbs) bombs over Vietnam, 20 December 1968.

VA-196 was assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14 aboard USS Constellation (CVA-64) for a deployment to Vietnam from 29 May 1968 to 31 January 1969.

Scan from The History of US Naval Air Power, edited by Robert L. Lawson. National Naval Aviation Museum photo # 1996.253.7047.013.

A U.S. Navy McDonnell F-4B Phantom II, BuNo 149445 (modex NK214), of Fighter Squadron (VF) 142 "Ghost Riders" launching from USS Constellation (CVA-64) for a mission over Vietnam. VF-142 was assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14 aboard Constellation for a deployment to Vietnam from 29 May 1968 to 31 January 1969.

Photo by PH1c A. Phillipi, U.S. Navy.

National Naval Aviation Museum photo, # 1996.253.7287.022.

USS Constellation (CVA-64) as seen from USS Coontz (DLG-9), July 1969. "Naval Aviation News," November 1969 issue, photograph.

Top: RA-5C Vigilante (BuNo 149299, modex NK-603), Reconnaissance Attack Squadron (RVAH) 7 "Peacemakers of the Fleet." Bottom: F-4J Phantom II (155872, NK-113), Fighter Squadron (VF) 143 "Pukin' Dogs." Both squadrons were part of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14, deployed to WestPac and Vietnam aboard USS Constellation (CVA-64), 11 August 1969–9 May 1970.

Three photos taken during an underway replenishment from USS Niagara Falls (AFS-3) at Yankee Station, 1970.

At 0958 on Friday, 8 May 1970, USS Constellation (CVA-64) moored starboard side to berths M and N, US Naval Station, North Island, California, completing her 5th Vietnam deployment.

Mike was an Aviation Electrician's Mate 3rd Class with Reconnaissance Attack Squadron (RVAH) 7 "Peacemakers of the Fleet."

RA-5C Vigilante about to recover aboard USS Constellation (CVA-64), circa the first half of the 1970s.

USS Constellation (CVA-64), with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9, NAS Cubi Point, Subic Bay, Philippine Islands, 28–30 October 1971. F-4B Phantom IIs from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 115 "Silver Eagles" are on the pier.

USS Constellation (CVA-64), Subic Bay, Philippine Islands, circa November 1971.

USS Constellation (CVA-64) underway with Carrier Air Wing Nine (CVW-9), 1971-1972. (DVIC id: DFST8302598).

A McDonnell F-4J Phantom II (BuNo 155799, modex NG200) of Fighter Squadron (VF) 92 "Silver Kings," and a North American RA-5C Vigilante (BuNo 156614, NG604) of Reconnaissance Attack Squadron (RVAH) 11 "Checkertails," part of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 deployed aboard USS Constellation (CVA-64), flying over Hawaii, circa 1971–72. U.S. Navy photo.

RA-5C Vigilante about to recover aboard USS Constellation (CVA-64). It appears to be BuNo 156610, modex NG-602, attached to Reconnaissance Attack Squadron (RVAH) 11 "Checkertails," and the photo would have been taken circa 1971–1972.

USS Constellation (CVA-64) off Vietnam, as seen from USS Coral Sea (CVA-43), December 1971–February 1972.

USS Carpenter (DD-825) can also be seen in photo NS0264bya.

USS Constellation (CVA-64), with embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9, off Vietnam, as seen from USS Coral Sea (CVA-43), circa 1971–1972.

A Knox-class destroyer escort (DE) can be seen in the left background in photo NS0264byd.

USS Constellation (CVA-64) seen from USS Enterprise (CVAN-65), 19–20 January 1972, in Yankee Station. RADM Damon W. Cooper, USN, Commander Attack Carrier Striking Force Seventh Fleet (CTF 77), and his staff transferred from the Big E (scheduled to return home just a few days later) to Connie.

Aboard USS Constellation (CVA-64) flight deck crewmen ready an A-6A Intruder of Attack Squadron (VA) 165 "Boomers" for launching, during Vietnam War operations in the South China Sea, 25 April 1972. Photographed by PH3 Ronald F. Reichwein.

This aircraft is probably BuNo 155699 (modex NG503). The tail of another A-6A, BuNo 155702 (NG504) can be seen on the left, and a third Intruder, BuNo 155645 (NG505) is in the background.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, from the collections of the Naval History and Heritage Command (NH&HC), # NH 98613.

A McDonnell Douglas F-4J Phantom II (BuNo 155800, NG-100) on 9 February 1972. This aircraft was assigned to Fighter Squadron (VF) 96 "Fighting Falcons," Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9, aboard the aircraft carrier USS Constellation (CVA-64). Having the callsign "Showtime 100" it was used by LT Randy Cunningham and LT(JG) Willie Driscoll for their 3rd, 4th, and 5th MiG kills on 10 May 1972. However, it was hit by a North Vietnamese SA-2 surface-to-air missile and the crew had to eject over the Gulf of Tonkin (according to the Vietnam People's Air Force [VPAF], it was an R-3S [AA-2 Atoll] air-to-air missile fired by a MiG-21). National Museum of Naval Aviation photo No. 1996.253.7274.015.

"Showtime 100" recovering aboard USS Constellation (CVA-64), 19–26 February 1972 (possibly 24th).

US Navy photos by RD2 Jim Anez, USS Ouellet (DE-1077).

F-4J Phantom II BuNo 155800, modex NG100, "Showtime 100," patrolling over the Gulf of Tonkin on 29 March 1972.

This aircraft was issued, new, to Fighter Squadron (VF) 96 "Fighting Falcons" on 19 October 1968, and made its first war cruise, with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 aboard USS Enterprise (CVAN-65), between 6 January and 2 July 1969. Its second cruise, again with CVW-9 but aboard USS America (CVA-66), began on 10 April 1970 and lasted until 22 December. The third and final cruise, this time aboard USS Constellation (CVA-64) commenced on 1 October 1971. On 10 May 1972 LT Cunningham and LT(JG) Driscoll shot down three MiG-17s, flying "Showtime 100," but a Vietnamese missile badly damaged the plane and the crew had to eject just beyond the North Vietnamese coastline.

Two F-4J Phantom II, BuNo 155799 (NG200) from Fighter Squadron (VF) 92 "Silver Kings" and BuNo 155800 (NG100) from VF-96 "Fighting Falcons" undergo pre-launch checks on the waist catapults of USS Constellation (CVA-64), in the spring of 1972.

USN photo, from Air War over Vietnam, vol. III, by Dana Bell.

Three F-4J Phantom IIs from Fighter Squadron (VF) 96 "Fighting Falcons" drop Mk.82 bombs (six apiece) over North Vietnam in the spring of 1972. VF-96 was part of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 aboard USS Constellation (CVA-64).

The aircraft in the foreground is BuNo 155800 (modex NG100, callsign "Showtime 100"), the CAG jet, a future triple MiG killer. The second aircraft appears to be BuNo 155792 (NG107).

USN photo, from The History of US Naval Air Power, edited by Robert L. Lawson.

F-4J Phantom II, BuNo 155805 (modex NG101), Fighter Squadron (VF) 96 "Fighting Falcons," ready to launch from USS Constellation (CVA-64), circa the spring of 1972. Note MiG-kill marking on the tail and the Admiral Joseph C. Clifton Trophy emblem (an award that recognizes meritorious achievement by a fighter squadron while deployed aboard a carrier) on the upper fuselage just aft of the cockpit.

Lieutenant Randall H. Cunningham (center), of Fighter Squadron (VF) 96, in the VF-96 ready room aboard USS Constellation (CVA-64), describing how he downed three MiG-17 fighters in aerial combat over North Vietnam on 10 May 1972. At right is Cunningham's Radar Intercept Officer, Lieutenant (Junior Grade) William P. Driscoll. They had earlier downed two other enemy fighters, and were the Navy's only Vietnam War fighter "Aces." Combat damage forced them to eject from their F-4J Phantom II just after the triple kill, but they were quickly rescued by a helicopter from USS Okinawa (LPH-3). After receiving a hot meal and dry clothing on board Okinawa they were flown back to Constellation to receive a joyous welcome.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph (# USN 1151717).

LT Randall H. "Randy" Cunningahm and LT(JG) William ("Willie," "Bill") Driscoll were the only Navy aces of the Vietnam War. This photo was taken at NAS Miramar on 5 October 1972, three months after the completion of VF-96 "Fighting Falcons" penultimate deployment to WestPac and Vietnam (1 October 1971–1 July 1972). Note the five MiG-17 silhouettes painted in red on the crews' helmets (aka "bone domes") and the red VPAF kill markings on the splitter plate behind Cunningham's right leg.

USS Constellation (CVA-64), Subic Bay, Philippine Islands, 1973.

USS Constellation (CVA-64) executing a turn whilst on station in the South China Sea, circa 1974.

An A-7E Corsair II of Attack Squadron (VA) 147 "Argonauts," named "City of Tulare," launches from USS Constellation (CVA-64) in the South China Sea, 29 July 1974. In those years, naming VA-147's aircraft for various towns (e.g., "City of Clovis," "City of Hanford," "City of Lemoore," "City of Olongapo") was a gimmick that does not appear to have met with much success.

National Naval Aviation Museum (NNAM) photo, Robert F. Lawson Photograph Collection, # NNAM.1996.253.7102.040.

A Douglas EA-3B Skywarrior (BuNo 146452) from Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron (VQ) 1 Det.64 "World Watchers" in flight over the South China Sea. VQ-1 Det.64 was assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 aboard the aircraft carrrier USS Constellation (CVA-64) for a deployment to the Western Pacific and the Indian Ocean from 21 June to 22 December 1974. USN photo. U.S. Navy National Museum of Naval Aviation photo No. 1996.253.3421.

A United States Navy North American RA-5C Vigilante (BuNo 156624) of Reconnaissance Attack Squadron (RVAH) 9 "Hoot Owls" operating from the aircraft carrier USS Constellation (CVA-64) in 1974. US Navy photo.

Photo from United States Navy Aircraft since 1911 by Gordon Swanborough and Peter M. Bowers.

USS Constellation (CVA-64) underway in the South China Sea, 2 October 1974. RA-5C Vigilante, A-7E Corsair II and F-4J Phantom II type planes on the flight deck wear "NG" tail letters (Carrier Air Wing [CVW] 9). EA-3B Skywarrior types present have "PR" tail letters (Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron [VQ] 1 Det. 64). Other aircraft on deck include A-6A Intruder, E-2B Hawkeye, C-1A Trader and SH-3A Sea King types. Photographed by PHCS(AC) Robert L. Lawson.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, from the collections of the Naval History and Heritage Command, # NH 98610.

USS Brunswick (ATS-3) engaged in a towing exercise with USS Constellation (CVA-64) in the South China Sea, 6 October 1974.

NS09310310: National Naval Aviation Museum photo, # 1996.488.103.075.

NS09310315: All Hands magazine, March 1975 issue, p.7.

View of USS Constellation's starboard quarter Terrier guided-missile installation, including a Mark 10 launcher with two missiles and an SPG-55A guidance radar. Taken in the Indian Ocean during Operation Midlink '74, 16 November 1974, by PHCS(AC) Robert L. Lawson. Aircraft on the carrier's flight deck include an SH-3A Sea King (BuNo 152134) of Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron (HS) 6 "Indians" and an RA-5C Vigilante (BuNo 156610) of Reconnaissance Attack Squadron (RVAH) 5 "Savage Sons." Many of the crewmen on the flight deck are carrying chairs.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, from the collections of the Naval History and Heritage Command, # NH 98614.

Undated, good overhead showing good flight deck detail.

Compare this photo to 026436 and 026406.

"USS Constellation (CVA-64) sitting snugly in the drydock at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard; note that her huge flight deck neatly overhangs the 180-foot-wide dock on both sides. CVA-64 will remain in drydock for nearly six months of her year-long overhaul." From the NAVSEA Journal.

During this overhaul (February 1975-April 1976) Connie was modified to perform the Navy's new role for carriers: air, surface and antisubmarine warfare — she was redesignated CV-64 on June 30, 1975. After the overhaul Constellation could operate both the F-14A Tomcat and the then new S-3A Viking.

USS Constellation (CV-64), in Dry Dock #1, Long Beach Naval Shipyard, Calif., October 1976.

USS Constellation (CV-64) in dry dock at the Long Beach Navy Yard, 12 November 1976.

National Naval Aviation Museum photo, # 1996.488.103.081.

Amphibious Assault Ship USS Tarawa (LHA-1), and aircraft carriers USS Coral Sea (CV-43) and USS Constellation (CV-64), tied up along the quay wall at NAS North Island, California, 7 August 1976 (see below).

Aircraft carriers USS Constellation (CV-64) and USS Coral Sea (CV-43), and amphibious assault ship USS Tarawa (LHA-1), tied up along the quay wall at Naval Air Station North Island, San Diego, California, 7 August 1976 (see above).

National Naval Aviation Museum photo, # 1996.488.103.080.

USS Constellation (CV-64)—with embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9–engages in underway replenishment with USS Kansas City (AOR-3), circa 1977. Also being refueled is USS Sterett (CG-31), as USS Waddell (DDG-24) follows.

National Naval Aviation Museum photo, # 1996.488.103.085.

Undated (circa 1977–79?) overhead view of E-2C Hawkeye BuNo 159501, of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 126, of Carrier AEW Wing 12, based at Norfolk, VA. At sea the squadron was attached to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9, and was embarked aboard the aircraft carrier USS Constellation (CV-64). US Navy photo.

San Diego, 1977.

USS Constellation (CV-64), San Diego, California, February 1977. Note S-3A Vikings parked aft on the flight deck—after her 1974–1976 overhaul, Constellation could operate both the new Lockheed S-3A and Grumman F-14A Tomcat.

USS Constellation (CV-64), Yokosuka, Japan, 11 November 1977. Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9. Seen from USS Jouett (CG-29).

USS Constellation (CV-64) pier side at NAS North Island, San Diego, July–August 1978.

USS Constellation (CV-64) deploying to WestPac with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9, 26 September 1978.

Official photo purchased aboard USS Constellation (CV-64) in 1981. Judging from Air Wing composition, it must have been taken in 1978–1979.

Aerial view of USS Constellation (CV-64), possibly taken around 1979.

Photo from the Charleston Naval Shipyard photo lab, now in the collection of Mr. Palmer Olliff.

USS Constellation (CV-64) underway with Carrier Air Wing Nine (CVW-9) aboard, possibly in May 1979, nearing the end of "Connie"'s 11th deployment to WestPac. This deployment was scheduled to end in March, but was extended in reaction to a political crisis in Yemen. CVW-9 included F-14A Tomcats, A-7E Corsair IIs, A-6E and KA-6D Intruders, S-3A Vikings, E-2C Hawkeyes, EA-6B Prowlers, RF-8G Crusaders and SH-3H Sea Kings.

A view of the bomb assembly area, the elevator, and the pneumatic hoists aboard USS Constellation (CV-64). Photographed by PH2 Braddock, 21 November 1979.

US Navy photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), # 428-GX-K-125466_Box 873.

Oblique port bow view of (front to back) the aircraft carrier USS Constellation (CV-64), a Mars-class combat stores ship and the guided missile cruiser USS Leahy (CG-16) underway, December 1979. US Navy photo (DVIC id: DNST8511030).

The combat stores ship USS Niagara Falls (AFS-3), alongside the aircraft carrier USS Constellation (CV-64) and the guided missile cruiser USS Leahy (CG-16), underway in the South China Sea whilst part of Carrier Task Force 77.7. (This picture seems to have been taken at the same time as photo NS026443, above).

Bow view of USS Constellation (CV-64) underway, December 1979. US Navy photo (DVIC id: DNST8511032).

USS Constellation (CV-64) with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9, circa 1980–1982.

An aerial starboard side view of the stern section of USS Constellation (CV-64), as an A-7E Corsair II aircraft approaches for a landing on the flight deck, July 1980. US Navy photo by PH1 Dave Maclean (DVIC id: DNSN8402115).

An aerial starboard view of the amidships section of USS Constellation (CV-64), as an A-7E Corsair II aircraft comes to a halt during an arrested landing on the flight deck, July 1980. US Navy photo by PH1 Dave Maclean (DVIC id: DNSN8402117).

An aerial starboard view of the forward section of USS Constellation (CV-64), as an A-6E Intruder aircraft begins to bank to the left after a catapult assisted takeoff from the flight deck, July 1980. US Navy photo by PH1 Dave Maclean (DVIC id: DNSN8402121).

A port bow view of USS Constellation (CV-64) and the destroyer USS Fife (DD-991) underway off the coast of California, August 1981. On August 20, during this workup cycle, President Ronald Reagan visited "Connie" and proclaimed the carrier "America's Flagship" while presenting the crew a presidential flag.

US Navy photo (DVIC id: DNSC8201441).

"President Ronald Reagan, in his role of 'Commander-in-Chief' of the Armed Forces, made his first visit to an aircraft carrier, the U.S.S. Constellation, 55 miles off the California coast. Addressing the 5,000 officers and crew, Reagan reaffirmed his pledge of 'a 600 ship Navy ... a Navy large enough to deter any aggressions.' After viewing air and sea operations, the elated President was heard to enthusiastically declare the entire visit, 'a Yankee Doodle Day.' August 20, 1981"

Postcard published by Coral-Lee, Rancho Cordova, CA.

COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF

PRESIDENT RONALD REAGAN

visits

U.S.S. CONSTELLATION (CV-64)

August 20, 1981

Captain Dennis Brooks, United States Navy
Commanding

F-14A Tomcat BuNo 159623 (modex NG205), Fighter Squadron (VF) 24 "Fighting Renegades," Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9, 19 December 1981. Pilot, CDR William H. Switzer, and RIO, LT(JG) Dave Baranek, were forced to eject from the Tomcat when the arresting cable released from the ship and remained attached to the plane's tail hook as it rolled off USS Constellation (CV-64).

"I was an F-14 RIO and ejected on 19 Dec 1981. The 4-wire broke as we landed on USS Constellation. Aircraft was an F-14A. Pilot was Bill Switzer."

"Photo showing the jet rolling off the flight deck with the wire still attached. I think the ejection sequence had started at this point. We both got out okay."

David Baranek
Callsign: Bio

Read the story.

  YouTube video.

An EA-6B Prowler in the hangar deck, early 1980s.

Shipboard duty, early 1980s.

UNREP at sunrise, early 1980s.

Twilight on the island, circa 1982.

USS Constellation (CV-64), 31 July 1981, CINCPAC Change of Command, ADM James D. Watkins relieved ADM Donald C. Davis.

NS0264cvb: The new CINCPAC's gig.

An air-to-air right side view of a Soviet Tupolev Tu-95 (NATO designation is Bear) aircraft and a U.S. Navy F-14A Tomcat fighter, top. The F-14A is from Fighter Squadron 211 (VF-211), "Fighting Checkmates," embarked aboard USS Constellation (CV-64). Western Pacific Ocean, early 1982.

US Navy photo (DVIC id: DF-SN-82-03604).

An F-14A Tomcat from Fighter Squadron 211 (VF-211), "Fighting Checkmates," lands aboard USS Constellation (CV-64) during flight demonstrations for Secretary of Defense Caspar Weinberger. Indian Ocean, February 10, 1982.

US Navy photo (DVIC id: DN-ST-82-04892).

A Grumman KA-6D Intruder (BuNo 152921) from Attack Squadron (VA) 165 "Boomers" refueling a Grumman EA-6B Prowler (BuNo 161119) from Tactical Electonic Warfare Squadron (VAQ) 134 "Garudas" on 10 February 1982. Both squadrons were assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 aboard the aircraft carrier USS Constellation (CV-64) for a deployment to the Western Pacific and the Indian Ocean from 20 October 1981 to 23 May 1982.

US Navy photo (DVIC id.: DN-ST-82-04891).

"Connie's challenge—Workload 'enormous' on aircraft carrier." Salute, Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Bremerton, Washington, Vol. XLII, No. 12, 17 December 1982.

USS Constellation, CV-64, 1797-1961.

USS Constellation, CV-64, 1797-1961.

USS Constellation, CVA-64, Centurion.

A "Centurion" is an aviator who has made 100 landings on one carrier. Typically a "Centurion" patch is issued and proudly worn on the flight jacket.

USS Constellation CVA 64, 1966 Far East Cruise (12 May–3 December).

Fighter Squadron 143, Phantom II, 1968 Centurion, USS Constellation (CVA-64).

CATCC 64, Connie Controller, WestPac, 1968.

(29 May 1968–31 January 1969.)

1968–1969, Photo Lab, USS Constellation, CVA-64.

Engineering, USS Constellation CV-64.

"INDIAN OCEAN YACHT CLUB — FIRST STARTED DURING WESTPAC '78–79 — "CONNIE" CV-64."

"CV-64 AMERICA'S FLAGSHIP"

Indian Ocean-WestPac '87, April 11–October 13, 1987.

Connie's Escort Service [Operation Earnest Will, the escorting of reflagged Kuwaiti tankers in the Persian Gulf as a result of Iranian attacks against international shipping] — 24 hours — Indian Ocean — 1987.

Why Steam? — Flanchorops DGAR [Diego Garcia] 87.

"South American Vacation '90."

"With CVW-9 embarked, Connie departed San Diego on 12 February 1990 for the East Coast. Following exercises with the air forces of several South American countries while en route and preparations at Norfolk, Va., Constellation entered Philadelphia Naval Shipyard, Pa., in July to begin a $800-million, three-year Service Life Extension Program (SLEP) [completed in March 1993]." Quoted from "America's Flagship: A History of USS Constellation (CVA/CV 64)," by Mike Weeks (Naval Aviation News, March–April 2004, page 17).

Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14 and USS Constellation (CV-64), PACEX-89, 16 September–19 October 1989, North Pacific.

"Round the Horn 1990."

(See above.)

WestPac, Indian Ocean and Persian Gulf Cruise, 10 November 1994–10 May 1995.

USS Constellation (CV-64) with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2.

WestPac, Indian Ocean and Persian Gulf Cruise, 10 November 1994–10 May 1995.

USS Constellation (CV-64) with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2.

Operation Southern Watch, Groundhog Station, January–March 1995.

USS Constellation (CV-64) with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, 1994–1995 Cruise (see above).

WestPac '99.

USS Constellation (CV-64) with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, 18 June–17 December 1999.

"HANGIN' WITH THE LOCALS"

"OSW   CV 64   CVW 2   WESTPAC 2001" (16 March–15 September.)

Operation Iraqi Freedom, "Shock-N-Awe!", 2003.

USS Constellation (CV-64) with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, 2 November 2002–2 June 2003.

Operation Southern Watch, WestPac 02–03.

USS Constellation (CV-64) with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, 2 November 2002–2 June 2003.

Bullets' Last Tomcat Cruise, Bounty Hunters, Fighting Two, 1972–2003. USS Constellation (CV-64) Final WestPac.

Christening of Constellation (CVA-64), October 8, 1960, New York Naval Shipyard, Brooklyn, New York.

Cover of Cruise Book, 1968–1969 (29 May 1968–31 January 1969).

(Cover)

Welcome Aboard booklet, circa 1965.

Welcome Aboard booklet, 1985–1987.

Welcome Aboard booklet, 1984.

Welcome Aboard booklet, 1988–1990.

Complete, 16-page VIPs Welcome Aboard booklet. Circa 1990–93.

Different cover for the same VIPs Welcome Aboard booklet.

Welcome Aboard booklet, 1991–1993.

Welcome Aboard booklet, 1994–1996.

Another Welcome Aboard booklet from the same vintage, 1994–1996.

Complete, 16-page Welcome Aboard booklet, 1996.

Complete, 16-page Welcome Aboard booklet, 23 April 1998.

Welcome Aboard booklet, 2001–03.

"Fire, environmental safety main concerns while in dry dock," Starscope, The Voice of "America's Flagship," Vol. 6, Number 3, Thursday, 23 April 1998.

Shellback Certificate, 11 November 1999.

Suicide prevention.

Post Office.

Telephonebook (cover).

Repair Party Training Book (cover).

Repair Parties: At Sea Fire Party, Duty Inport Emergency Teams, Fire Fighting, Damage Control.

Decommissioning of / United States Ship Constellation (CV-64) / "America's Flagship" / Naval Air Station North Island / San Diego, California / at 10:00 / Thursday, August 7, 2003.

CPO Berthing. VFA-151 "Vigilantes," VMFA-323 "Death Rattlers," VFA-137 "Kestrels," VAQ-131 "Lancers." Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, USS Constellation (CV-64), 1994–2003.

"SEAFAIR welcomes the Fleet to Puget Sound, July 31 – August 4 [2002]"

Model of USS Constellation (CVA / CV-64), with a brass plate.