CV-47 was named after the battle fought, 18–21 June 1944, in the Philippine Sea, in the western part of the North Pacific Ocean, east and northeast of the Philippine Islands (NS024787, map courtesy of Google Maps).

The Battle of the Philippine Sea was the largest aircraft carrier action in World War II. Japanese Admiral Soemu Toyoda, Commander of the Combined Fleet, said, "The fate of the Empire rests on this one battle." The American Fifth Fleet was commanded by Admiral Raymond A. Spruance (with Task Force 58 [TF-58] under Vice Admiral Marc Mitscher). The Japanese were tactically led by Vice Admiral Ozawa Jisaburo. During the battle, Task Force 58 fought four Japanese air raids, shooting down hundreds of enemy aircraft in what became known as the "Marianas Turkey Shoot." It is estimated that 315 of the 423 enemy carrier aircraft were destroyed, along with an additional 50 aircraft destroyed on Guam. On 19 June 1944, Japanese carriers Shokaku and Taiho were torpedoed and sunk by USS Cavalla (SS-244) and USS Albacore (SS-218), respectively. The following day, with the Japanese in retreat, Task Force 58 attacked with a late afternoon strike (the "Mission Beyond Darkness") that sank the Japanese carrier Hiyo and two oilers, but Mitscher called back the aviators due to the problem of night landing on the U.S. Navy carriers.

NS024787a: Ships of Japanese Carrier Division Three under attack by TF-58 planes, 20 June 1944. Ships present include a CVL, CA and BB. Photographed by USS Monterey (CVL-26). National Archives and Records Administration photo # 80-G-238159.

The future USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) under construction, 11 November 1944, at Fore River Naval Shipyard in Quincy, Massachusetts.

National Naval Aviation Museum photo, # 1996.488.114.001.

The future USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) under construction, 5 May 1945, four months before being launched. Fore River Naval Shipyard in Quincy, Massachusetts.

National Naval Aviation Museum photo, # 1996.488.114.002.

The future USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) immediately prior to being launched, 5 September 1945. Stern hull design, propellers and rudder are easily seen.

National Naval Aviation Museum photo, # 1996.488.114.003.

Christening by Mrs. Albert B. Chandler (née Mildred Lucille Watkins), wife of the Senator from Kentucky.

Philippine Sea (CV-47) sliding down the ways.

Launching an Essex-class carrier, the future USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), Bethlehem Steel Co., Quincy, Massachusetts, Wednesday, 5 September 1945.

National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), Record Group 181, National Archives Identifier 38330011.

Philippine Sea (CV-47), 5 January 1946, before commissioning, in the Beth Fore River wet basin, Quincy, MA. Builders' print.

The future USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) completing her fitting out at the Fore River Naval Shipyard in Quincy, Massachusetts, 4 December 1945. Launched on 5th September, the flight deck, upper hull and island construction are clearly evident.

National Naval Aviation Museum photo, # 1996.488.114.004.

USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) anchored at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, during her 1946 shakedown cruise.

National Naval Aviation Museum photo, # 1996.488.114.055.

USS Philippine Sea passing through the Panama Canal with six Douglas R4D-5L transports en route to the Antarctic, in support of Operation High Jump, Rear Admiral Richard E. Byrd's scientific expedition to the frozen continent in 1947. Note the carrier's port-side elevator swung up so she can squeeze through the canal and the two OY-1 light planes parked forward of her island. U.S. Navy photo.

Photo and text from Aircraft Carriers, by Norman Polmar.

Overhead bow view of USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) passing through the Panama Canal in 1946. The ship was en route to the Antarctica for Operation Highjump. Note the R4D Skytrains spotted on the flight deck behind the barrier.

US Navy and Marine Corps Museum/Naval Aviation Museum, photo # 1986.056.001.024.

Soon after World War II the Navy returned to the Antarctic to continue exploration and mapping. Operation Highjump, 1946–47, was a massive effort that included 13 ships, 4,700 men, and 25 aircraft, making it the largest expedition to Antarctica. RADM Richard H. Cruzen commanded the Navy task force while RADM Richard E. Byrd (photos NS024752c; NS024752d, right; NS024752g; NS024752h, left) was given control of the technical aspects of the operation.

Participating ships included: USS Mount Olympus (AGC-8), the flagship; attack cargo ships USS Yancey (AKA-93) and USS Merrick (AKA-97); submarine USS Sennet (SS-408); Navy icebreaker USS Burton Island (AG-88) and Coast Guard icebreaker USCGC Northwind (WAG-282); seaplane tenders USS Currituck (AV-7) and USS Pine Island (AV-12); destroyers USS Henderson (DD-785) and USS Brownson (DD-868); oilers USS Cacapon (AO-52) and USS Canisteo (AO-99); and aircraft carrier USS Philippine Sea (CV-47). Aircraft included PBM Mariner seaplanes, R4D Skytrains (photos NS024752, NS024752a, NS024752e, NS024752i) equipped with a unique wheel/ski combination, and HOS, HO3S (photo NS024752b), and HNS Hoverfly helicopters.

The Navy decided to fly the Skytrains to the continent from Philippine Sea, and equip these two-engine cargo planes with Jet Assisted Take Off (JATO) equipment to provide extra thrust (photos NS024752f, NS024752i). The first R4D took off from Philippine Sea on 19 January 1947 piloted by CDR William M. Hawkes. The R4D's continued to use JATO for some operations from the ice fields, and JATO bottles also allowed the PBM Mariners to shorten their takeoffs in often ice choked waters. The utility of the JATO system ashore and at sea was vital to polar aviation. The helicopters, still in their infancy, proved useful in scouting for ice in the dangerous waters near the continent. The expedition's flights observed more than 700,000 square miles of Antarctica which were previously unexplored.

The expedition made major scientific contributions and photographed much of the coast of Antarctica which had never been recorded before. For the Navy, Highjump was primarily a testing and training exercise for cold weather operations. It demonstrated the viability of new technologies, such as the helicopter and JATO, and confirmed the need for ski-equipped aircraft in Antarctic aviation operations.

(Text from "Naval Aviation in the Antarctic," by Curtis Utz, Naval Aviation News, November–December 2006; "Polar Expeditions," Naval History & Heritage Command website.)

Note: Two ships have been named after Rear Admiral Byrd: DDG-23 and (T-)AKE 4.

A Navy Douglas R4D-5L takes off from USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), on 29 January 1947, in a blast of smoke from auxiliary rockets (JATO), heading for the Little America base 800 miles south, in Antarctica, as part of U.S. Navy's Antartic Expedition, Operation High Jump, led by Admiral Richard E. Byrd. Note that only three inches of wheel protrude from beneath the skis for take-off. Only half of the Philippine Sea's flight deck—about 400 feet—could be used because of the danger of an R4D wing striking the island structure. Photo U.S. Navy Official.

Photo and text from Aircraft Carriers, by Norman Polmar.

USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) exercising at sea with another carrier and a heavy cruiser, circa 1948. The photograph was received by the Naval Photographic Center on 10 January 1949. Note: "E" painted on her stack, location of hull number below the after end of her island; and HO3S helicopter on her flight deck.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-706709).

USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) at Gibraltar in February or March 1948. Philippine Sea, with Attack Carrier Air Group Nine assigned, was at the beginning of her deployment to the Mediterranean Sea from 9 February to 26 June 1948. US Navy photo by Charles J. Beggy, Jr., ET 2nd Class, USN (ret.).

USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) underway in the Arctic Circle circa 1948, during cold weather operations. USS Wisconsin (BB-64) is in the background.

National Naval Aviation Museum photo, # 1996.488.114.010.

A U.S. Marine Corps Vought F4U-4 Corsair from Marine Fighter Squadron (VMF) 311 making a barrier crash aboard the U.S. Navy aircraft carrier USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), circa 1948. VMF-311 soon transitioned to the Lockheed TO-1 (F-80C) Shooting Star jet.

National Naval Aviation Museum photo, # 1996.253.7157.005.

USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) underway on 21 November 1948, conducting cold weather operation at the Arctic Circle.

National Naval Aviation Museum photo, # 1996.488.114.009.

USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) underway circa 1949. An HO3S-1 helicopter is making an approach for a landing on the ship.

National Naval Aviation Museum photo, # 1996.488.114.012.

This F4U-4 Corsair (BuNo 96771, L412), VA-74 "Sunday Punchers," Carrier Air Group (CVG) 7, LT(JG) M. Stachow, almost took a wave off from the LSO while recovering aboard USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), 1 January 1949. Applying full throttle caused a fatal torque roll that put the Corsair on its back and into the sea.

Partial text from Bent & Battered Wings: USN/USMC Damaged Aircraft 1943–1953, by Jim Sullivan.

USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), moored in Naples, Italy. Photograph released 6 February 1949. Official U.S. Navy photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), #80-G-399785.

USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) at anchor, Naples harbor, February 1949. National Archives and Records Administration photo # 80-G-707181.

USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) moored at Messina, Sicily, 31 March 1949, during her Mediterranean cruise (4 January–22 May), with Carrier Air Group (CVG) 7.

National Naval Aviation Museum photo, # 1996.488.114.014.

Caribbean (September–October 1949)—USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) anchored out in a bay, possibly Guantanamo, with Air Group 1 embarked. She is engaged in a shakedown cruise following a complex overhaul at the Boston Naval Shipyard. Five views from stem to stern along the starboard side.

"July 7, 1950. San Diego, Calif. Carrier sails to join Korea force—Shown here just before the Philippine Sea left for the Korean war front are F9F Panther jet fighter planes being loaded aboard the U.S. carrier. The carrier sailed for Pearl Harbor where it will become nucleus of new Task Force Yoke which [...] action in the Korean war zone against the reds. Navy photo."

Aircraft are F9F-2 Panthers assigned to VF-112 "Fighting One Twelve," Carrier Air Group (CVG) 11.

"(FX1-July 15[, 1950]—CARRIER LOADS SUPPLIES—The 27,000-ton aircraft carrier USS Philippine Sea, flagship of Task Force 'Yoke' recently assigned to the Hawaiian area, takes aboard supplies at Pearl Harbor. The naval force was poised for what is likely to be a dash to the orient. (AP WIREPHOTO via Navy radio from Honolulu)(jhfd70400usn)."

USS Chara (AKA-58) during an underway replenishment with USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) and USS Hollister (DD-788), circa early 1950s during the Korean War.

US Navy photo now in the collections of the NARA Seattle.

USS Philippine Sea (CV-47). Photos taken in the second half of 1950 from USS Valley Forge (CV-45) in the Western Pacific/Korea.

A Chance Vought F4U-4B Corsair of VF-113 "Stingers," CVG-11, aboard the aircraft carrier USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), some time between July 1950 and March 1951. The aircraft is loaded with 100-lb (45-kg) bombs in preparation for a strike on North Korean positions. Photo US Navy.

"Crew members are shown towing a Navy [F9F-2] Panther jet into position aboard a U.S. Navy carrier [USS Philippine Sea (CV-47)] operating somewhere off the coast of Korea."

Photo believed to have been taken by a Sgt. Nutter, 4 August 1950.

National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) photo, # 111-SC-345275.

Grumman F9F-2B Panther BuNo 123443, from Fighter Squadron (VF) 112 "Fighting One Twelve" floating on the sea after crashing shortly after being launched from USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) off Mokpo-Kwang-Ju, South Korea, 7 August 1950. Its pilot, CDR Ralph Weymouth, is seen standing in the cockpit of his aircraft, awaiting rescue.

CDR Weymouth was CO, VF-112, 8 May–29 August 1950, and became Commander, Carrier Air Group 11, on 20 August, after CDR Raymond W. Vogel was KIA. Weymouth went on to be Captain of USS Lake Champlain (CVS-39) and was in command when that ship recovered Alan B. Shepard, 5 May 1961, the first US manned space flight. Ralph Weymouth attained the rank of Vice Admiral and died in 2020, aged 102.

National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) photo, # 80-G-420687.

Ensign Edward D. Jackson, of Fighter Squadron (VF) 112 "Fighting One Twelve," is helped from his F9F-2B Panther fighter (BuNo 123511, modev V216), after making a blind landing aboard USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), 17 September 1950. He had suffered severe facial lacerations when his plane flew through high-tension lines west of Seoul, Korea, while attacking targets on the Han River.

Official US Navy photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), # 80-G-439862.

NS024789a: All Hands magazine published a brief article in its January 1951 issue, page 39.

For a more detailed article, see "Miracle Landing off Korea," at the HistoryNet website.

Official US Navy Photograph (# USN-707935) of an AD-4 Skyraider of VA-115 landing on USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) on 2 October 1950, after conducting strikes in the Inchon area of North Korea. Looking on are Landing Signal Officers, LT(JG) Floyd K. Lissy and LT(JG) Robert K. McNeil and Assistants Walter R. Evans, AM and Richard E. King, AM.

Vought F4U-4B Corsairs, VF-114 "Executioners," Carrier Air Group (CVG) 11, USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), 1950.

Grumman F9F-2 Panther of Fighter Squadron 111 (VF-111) is fueled on the carrier's forward flight deck, during operations off Korea, circa 19 October 1950. At left are Vought F4U-4B Corsair fighter-bombers of Fighter Squadron 114 (VF-114).

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-420916).

Ordnancemen hauling bombs on the carrier's flight deck, preparing planes for attacks on enemy targets in Korea, circa 19 October 1950. A Douglas AD-4 Skyraider of Attack Squadron (VA) 115 "Arabs" is behind them, with small bombs on its wing racks.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives and Records Administration, # 80-G-420919.

Vought F4U-4B Corsairs of Fighter Squadron (VF) 113 are spotted prior to take-off from USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) on a strike mission against targets in Korea, circa 19 October 1950.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-420920).

Ordnancemen loading bombs on a Vought F4U-4B Corsair of Fighter Squadron (VF) 114, during operations aboard USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), off Korea, circa 19 October 1950. This aircraft is Bureau No. 63034.

F4U-4 in the right background has tail code "PP", indicating that it belongs to squadron VC-61.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-420921).

Ordnancemen attach rockets to the hardpoints on the wing of a Vought F4U-4B Corsair fighter, aboard USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), circa October 1950.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-420922).

A Vought F4U-4B Corsair of Fighter Squadron (VF) 113 gets the "Go" signal to take off from USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), during operations off Korea, circa 19 October 1950.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-420924).

A Grumman F9F-2 Panther of Fighter Squadron (VF) 111 being moved by a flight deck tractor aboard USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), during operations off Korea, circa 19 October 1950.

Other planes parked near by are Vought F4U-4B Corsairs.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-420925).

Vought F4U-4B Corsair fighters, of Fighter Squadrons 113 and 114 (VF-113 & VF-114) prepare for launching aboard USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), during strikes on North Korean targets, circa 19 October 1950. Note small bombs, with fuse extensions, on the planes' wings.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-420926).

Douglas AD-4 Skyraider of Attack Squadron (VA) 115 spotted for launch aboard USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), with a wing load of bombs, during operations off Korea, circa 19 October 1950. This aircraft is Bureau No. 123830.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-420928).

Vought F4U-4B Corsair, of Fighter Squadron 113 (VF-113) taxies forward on the flight deck of USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), just before taking off to attack North Korean targets, circa 19 October 1950. Note small bombs on the plane's wings and flight deck crewman signalling to the pilot.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-420932).

Douglas AD Skyraider of Attack Squadron (VA) 115 ready for launching from USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), on a strike mission against Korean targets, circa 19 October 1950.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-420934).

A Douglas AD-4W Skyraider prepares to take off from USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), for a night heckler mission over Korea, circa 19 October 1950.

Vought F4U-4B Corsair fighters are parked in the right background. The ship's Sikorski HO3S-1 utility helicopter is overhead, in the upper left distance.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-420936).

Operations Officer in the "Pri-Fly" booth aboard USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) checks in returning aircraft after a strike on Korean targets, circa 19 October 1950.

In the distance is a Vought F4U-4B Corsair approaching to land on board.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-420938).

A Vought F4U-4B Corsair, of Fighter Squadron (VF) 114, returns to USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) following a strike on North Korean targets, circa 19 October 1950.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-420942).

A Grumman F9F-2 Panther from Fighter Squadron (VF) 112 on the flight deck of USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), during operations off Korea, circa 19 October 1950.

Note spectators on the island walkways.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-420946).

A Sikorski HO3S-1 helicopter, of Helicopter Utility Squadron (HU) 1, aboard USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) during operations off Korea, circa 19 October 1950. Crewman is backing off vacuum prior to starting the helicopter's engine.

Note aircraft carrier in the left distance.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-420949).

A Sikorski HO3S-1 helicopter, of Helicopter Utility Squadron (HU) 1, hovers near USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), awaiting the return of aircraft from missions over Korea, circa 19 October 1950.

Crewmen foreground are standing by their stations on one of the ship's 40mm gun mounts. Note screening destroyer in the middle distance.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-420950).

Demonstration of air-sea rescue techniques, using a Sikorski HO3S-1 helicopter from USS Worcester (CL-144), on the flight deck of USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), during operations off Korea, circa 19 October 1950.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-420957).

Grumman F9F-2 Panther (Bureau No. 123438) of Fighter Squadron 112 (VF-112) goes into the crash barrier while returning from a mission over Korea, circa 19 October 1950.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-420958).

A Grumman F9F-2 Panther comes in for a landing aboard USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) during operations off Korea, circa 19 October 1950.

The ship's HO3S-1 helicopter is standing by, faintly visible, in the left distance. Note Landing Signal Officer (LSO) at right, antennae on the LSO platform, and 5"/38 gun in the right foreground.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-420960).

Crewmen rolling a 1000-pound bomb across the hangar deck of USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), while rearming from the ammunition ship (AE) in the background, during operations in Korean waters, circa 19 October 1950. Note wooden rails used for moving the bomb.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-420962).

Vought F4U-4B Corsair of Fighter Squadron (VF) 114 taking off from USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) for a mission over Korea, circa 19 October 1950. Other F4Us are following.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-420967).

Secretary of the Navy Francis P. Matthews (center) disembarks from a Douglas AD-4N Skyraider aircraft, after being flown aboard USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) off Korea, 22 November 1950. He is being welcomed by the carrier's Commanding Officer, Captain Willard K. Goodney. Secretary Matthews was visiting Navy units involved in Korean War operations. Note his leather flight helmet and inflatable life vest.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (# 80-G-423481).

A Douglas AD-4 Skyraider of Attack Squadron (VA) 115 "Arabs" launches from the aircraft carrier USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) on a mission to support UN forces in North Korea, 25 November 1950. Note the plane's load of two large and eight small bombs. Also note details of the ship's island and very weathered "47" painted on her stack.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), # 80-G-439876).

Mount Katmai (AE-16) transferring bombs during underway replenishment with Philippine Sea (CV-47) off Korea, 29 November 1950. Note: Crewmen standing in the carrier's forward hangar bay, and Grumman F9F-2 Panther fighters and LeTourneau crane parked on her flight deck. Crewmen on Mount Katmai are wearing cold weather clothing. A few days after this photo was taken, Philippine Sea commenced a period of close-support operations in the vicinity of the Chosin Reservoir.

US Navy photo now in the collections of the US National Archives (# 80-G-439879).

A Douglas AD-4 Skyraider of Attack Squadron (VA) 115 "Arabs," Carrier Air Group (CVG) 11, bursts into flame as the engine breaks off upon landing aboard USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), 1 December 1950. The Skyraider had been hit by enemy flak over Korea. (Same aircraft in photo NS024709.)

Pilot, ENS Denzel Leland Crist, suffered 1st and 2nd degree burns to his face.

National Archives and Records Administration photo, # 80-G-423867.

An ordnanceman carting bombs on the flight deck of USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), probably off Korea, 1950–51. Plane behind him is an F4U-4B Corsair of Fighter Squadron (VF) 113 "Stingers."

USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) with Carrier Air Group (CVG) 11, circa 1950–52 (maybe at about the same time as the photo below).

USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) moored at Sasebo, Japan, 3 January 1951, with much of her air group spotted on the flight deck. Planes seen include Douglas AD-4 Skyraiders of Attack Squadron 115 (VA-115), Vought F4U-4B Corsairs of Fighter Squadrons 113 and 114 (VF-113 & VF-114) and Grumman F9F-2 Panthers of Fighter Squadrons 111 and 112 (VF-111 & VF-112). Note: Destroyer tender and destroyers in the middle distance, with USS Juneau (CLAA-119) just beyond; LCM-3 landing craft tied to the carrier's stern; and barge and ship's boats alongside her starboard quarter.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-439886).

Sikorski HO3S-1 (BuNo 122716, modex UP-27) from Helicopter Utility Squadron (HU) 1 "Pacific Fleet Angels" rescues LT(JG) Max E. Thompson, USN, pilot of a Vought F4U-5N Corsair fighter (BuNo 124501) from Composite Squadron (VC) 3 "Blue Nemesis" Det.D, that crashed on takeoff from the aircraft carrier USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) at 1345 hours, 27 January 1951, off the Korean coast.

Both squadrons were assigned to Carrier Air Group (CVG) 11 aboard Philippine Sea for a deployment to Korea from 5 July 1950 to 26 March 1951.

Official U.S. Navy photo, now in the collections of the National Archives and Records Administration, # 80-G-439846.

Sikorsky HO3S-1 (BuNo 122716, modex UP-27) of Helicopter Utility Squadron (HU) 1 "Pacific Fleet Angels" returns LT(JG) Max Ednes Thompson to the flight deck of USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) after rescuing him from the sea of the coast of Korea. He was the pilot of a Vought F4U-5N Corsair fighter (BuNo 124501) that crashed while taking off from the carrier at 1345 hours on 27 January 1951.

Official U.S. Navy photo, now in the collections of the National Archives and Records Administration, # 80-G-439847.

USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) moored at Yokosuka, Japan, on 6 February 1951. Note: Large cranes on the shore; harbor tugs at right; and mobile crane on the flight deck of the carrier from which the photo was taken.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-439894).

Members of the carrier's Ordnance Department pose with decorated 2000-pound bombs, during Korean War operations, 9 March 1951. Messages painted on the bombs are: "Greetings from PhilCee"; "Happy Easter"; and "Listen! To This One it will Kill you". Among the planes parked in the background are F4U-4Bs of Fighter Squadron 113 (VF-113).

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-439895).

U.S. Navy Douglas AD-2 Skyraiders of Attack Squadron (VA) 65 "Fist of the Fleet" are loaded aboard the aircraft carrier USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), probably at Sasebo, Japan, in March 1951. VA-65 was assigned to Carrier Air Group (CVG) 2 aboard Philippine Sea for a deployment to Korea, 28 March–9 June 1951. (CVG-2 crossdecked with CVG-11, from USS Valley Forge (CV-45). CVG-2 remained in Korea aboard Philippine Sea; CVG-11 returned to the States aboard Valley Forge.)

U.S. Navy photo from the Philippine Sea 1950–1951 Cruise Book.

Group photo of the officers of U.S. Navy Attack Squadron (VA) 65 "Fist of the Fleet" in front of one of the squadron's Douglas AD-2 Skyraiders aboard the aircraft carrier USS Philippine Sea (CV-47). VA-65 was assigned to Carrier Air Group (CVG) 2 aboard Philippine Sea for a deployment to Korea from 28 March to 9 June 1951.

Underway at sea, 9 April 1951, while en route to operating areas off Formosa.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-439899).

F4U-4 Corsairs of VF-24 "Corsairs," Carrier Air Group (CVG) 2, on the flight deck of USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), April–June 1951.

F4U-4 Corsairs of VF-63 "Fighting Redcocks," Carrier Air Group (CVG) 2, on the flight deck of USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), April–June 1951.

An Attack Squadron 65 (VA-65) AD-2 Skyraider taxies forward on the flight deck, during Korean War operations in May 1951.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-439905).

Plane guard helicopter swings in for a landing on USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) after launchings.

(From "All Hands" magazine, May 1951.)

U.S. Navy ordnancemen load RAM (lower) and HVAR "Holy Moses" (upper) rockets on a Vought F4U-4 Corsair of Fighter Squadron (VF) 24 "Corsairs" aboard the aircraft carrier USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), off the Korean coast, 21 May 1951. VF-24 was assigned to Carrier Air Group (CVG) 2 aboard Philippine Sea from late March to 9 June 1951.

Note different types of rocket warheads, and details of carts used to transport the rockets. RAM was also known as the 6.5-Inch Anti-Tank Aircraft Rocket or ATAR.

Official U.S. Navy photo, now in the collections of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), # 80-G-439903.

"Preparing for another strike in the Navy's bridge busting campaign in Korea, Panther jet is refueled on flight deck of USS Philippine Sea (CV-47.)"

(From "All Hands" magazine, May 1951.)

USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) passes under the Oakland Bay Bridge as she arrives at San Francisco, California, upon her return from the Korean War zone, circa 9 June 1951. Crewmen on the flight deck are spelling out "CVG 2" in honor of her air group.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, from the collections of the Naval Historical Center (photo # NH 97322).

"(FX8)SAN FRANCISCO, June 9[, 1951]—PHILIPPINE SEA SETS NEW SPEED MARK—The 27,000-ton aircraft carrier Philippine Sea passes under the San Francisco-Oakland Bay bridge here today after 11 months in Korean waters. The big flattop bettered the Japan-San Francisco crossing by more than five hours the previous record of 7 days, 18 hours and 36 minutes set last year by USS Boxer. The much decorated Air Group 2 personnel spell out CVG 2 (Carrier Vessel [sic] Group 2) on flight deck. In background is part of San Francisco skyline. (U.S. Navy photo via AP WIREPHOTO)(hd71610usn) 1951"

USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) underway. The photo appears to have been taken at about the time of her second Korean Cruise, 31 December 1951–8 August 1952, with Carrier Air Group (CVG) 11 aboard.

"AF3c Edward H. Zierlein, of Carrier Air Group 11, develops a roll of Sonne prints in the photo lab [aboard USS Philippine Sea (CV-47)], while the carrier was operating off Korea in April 1952. These prints will be used by Photographic Interpreters in evaluating the results of recent air strikes and planning new ones."

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, from the All Hands collection at the Naval History & Heritage Command (# NH 97113).

Aboard USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), "Lieutenant Zack Taylor gets ready for a reconnaissance flight over enemy territory, while the carrier was operating off Korea in April 1952. His plane is a Grumman F9F-2P photo version of the Panther jet fighter. Note camera window in the plane's nose, and Lt. Taylor's ribbed crash helmet."

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, from the All Hands collection at the Naval History & Heritage Command (# NH 97114).

USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), USS Barton (DD-722) and USS Iowa (BB-61) operating in the Sea of Japan, off Korea, during replenishment operations. Photo is dated 1 July 1952.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-444887).

USS Philippine Sea (CVA-47) underway, off the coast of North Korea on 3 May 1953. On deck are various aircraft of Carrier Air Group Nine (CVG-9): 14 Grumman F9F-2 Panthers of Fighter Squadrons VF-91 and VF-93, six Douglas AD-4/-4NA/-4NL Skyraiders of Attack Squadron VA-95, eleven Vought F4U-4 Corsairs of VF-94, three AD-4W of Composite Squadron VC-11 Det. M (one on the starbord bow, two in front and to the right of the lowered deck elevator), and a AD-4N of VC-35 Det. M (aft of the elevator). US Navy photo; US National Archives file No. 80-G-629442; U.S. Defense Visual Information Distribution Service photo No. HN-SN-98-07229.

This aircraft carrier appears to be USS Philippine Sea (CVA-47). The photo was taken at Yokosuka, Japan, probably by Zelma "Suzie" Coyle, sometime in February–August 1953. Coyle Collection.

USS Philippine Sea (CVA-47) underway, ferrying aircraft, circa 1953.

USS Philippine Sea (CVA-47), from Our Navy magazine, mid-August 1954.

This photo was probably taken in 1954, with Carrier Air Group 5 (CVG-5) aboard.

Navasota (AO-106) refueling Electra (AKA-4) off her starboard side and Philippine Sea (CVA-47) off her port side, off San Diego in 1954.

Navasota (AO-106) refueling Electra (AKA-4) off her starboard side and Philippine Sea (CVA-47) off her port side, off San Diego in 1954.

Bow view of USS Philippine Sea (CVA-47) underway, 3 February 1954, off the coast of California.

National Naval Aviation Museum photo, # 1996.488.114.026.

Aerial view of USS Philippine Sea (CVA-47), 12 March 1954, underway in the channel into San Diego Bay.

National Naval Aviation Museum photo, # 1996.488.114.029.

"The OPERATIONAL READINESS INSPECTION proved the usefullness of the ship as a tactical weapon. Off the sunny shores of Hawaii we were driven through the various drills and rigid tests which were timed and recorded. The competitive spirit shown between the ships kept blinker signals winking like fireflies boasting of the marks they received. After the three days of the Big Test were over we drew a breath of relief for our marks were high. We passed." March–April 1954. From the USS Philippine Sea (CVA-47) 1954 Cruise Book (12 March–19 November).

USS Philippine Sea (CVA-47) refueling from an unidentified oiler during a WestPac deployment, 1954. Photographed from USS O'Brien (DD-725).

"Task Force 77, 1954." USS Philippine Sea (CVA-47) off the Philippine Islands with USS Valley Forge (CVS-45) and USS Rochester (CA-124) in the background. Painting by Wayne Scarpaci, 24"x36".

Operating in the Western Pacific with the Seventh Fleet, 9 July 1955.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-K-18427).

USS Philippine Sea (CVA-47) makes a sharp turn to starboard, while steaming in the Western Pacific with the Seventh Fleet, 9 July 1955. Photographed by PH1 D.L. Lash.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-K-18429).

View looking aft from the carrier's island, showing AD and F9F aircraft parked on the flight deck. Photographed on 19 July 1955, while Philippine Sea was operating with the Seventh Fleet. Photographed by PH1 J.E. Cook.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-K-18466).

U.S. Navy fleet oiler USS Platte (AO-24) refueling the aircraft carrier USS Philippine Sea (CVA-47) and the destroyer USS Watts (DD-567), while operating with the U.S. 7th Fleet in the Western Pacific, 19 July 1955. Other ships present include the aircraft carriers USS Hornet (CVA-12) and USS Oriskany (CVA-34), a cruiser and several destroyers and replenishment ships. USS John A. Bole (DD-755) is visible directly behind Philippine Sea. Philippine Sea, with assigned Air Task Group (ATG) 2, was deployed to the Western Pacific from 1 April to 23 November 1955.

USN Photo, now in the collections of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), # K-18468.

USS Philippine Sea (CVS-47) refuels destroyer USS Orleck (DD-886) in May 1957.

Photo courtesy of the National Naval Aviation Museum, # 1996.488.114.056.

"HOLD FOR MONDAY 11/11/57  7 p.m. EST use) Release set by Navy
001) USS Philippine Sea—Navy S2F planes take off from carrier Philippine Sea to search for missing Pan American Airlines plane [(Flight 7)] and 44 persons. Destroyer USS John R. Craig is alongside carrier. (Official U.S. Navy photo by AP WIREPHOTO)
nb20816usn 1957"

"(FX3-NOV. 16) SEARCHING FOR BODIES AND PLANE WRECKAGE—The Navy aircraft carrier Philippine Sea pulls alongside smoke pot dropped by searching helicopter to mark floating bodies and wreckage from the Pan American stratocruiser 'Romance of the Skies' which vanished Nov.8 while flying from San Francisco to Honolulu with 44 persons aboard. The carrier recovered 19 bodies and some wreckage and is now steaming toward the Pacific coast with its grim cargo. (U.S. Navy photo via APWIREPHOTO)(jhfd71130usn) 1957"

"(LA1-Nov. 17) BODY OF PLANE VICTIM RECOVERED FROM SEA—Sailors from the carrier Philippine Sea pull the body of one of 44 victims of the Pan American airliner crash in the Pacific Ocean into a small boat on Friday[, 15 November 1957]. The Navy recovered the bodies of 19 victims during search operations. This exclusive picture was made by AP staff photographer Hal Filan who flew to the mainland from the carrier today. (AP Wirephoto)(rhs11100stf-hf) 1957"

(Larger copy submitted by Tommy Trampp.)

AD-6 Skyraiders of Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 331 "Bumblebees" and S2F Trackers of Antisubmarine Squadron (VS) 21 "Lightning Bolts" on the flight deck of USS Philippine Sea (CVS-47). Half the personnel and equipment of VS-21 and Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 6 "Indians" were off-loaded at Subic Bay, Philippines, and 22 Skyraiders of VMA-331, HRSs of Marine Helicopter Transport Squadron (Light) (HMR(L)) 163 "Ridge Runners," and a Marine Company were embarked to condutct "South China Sea Training Exercises," 13 March–1 April 1958.

An Australian Fairey Gannet A.S. Mk.1 from the aircraft carrier HMAS Melbourne (R21), during cross-deck operations with USS Philippine Sea (CVS-47) during Operation Oceanlink, April–May 1958. USN Photo taken from U.S. Navy Naval Aviation News, September 1958 issue.

USS Philippine Sea (CVS-47) underway at sea, with eleven S2F aircraft of Anti-Submarine Squadron 37 (VS-37) flying overhead, July 1958. Six of these aircraft are still painted in the older blue color scheme. Photographed by Everett.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, from the collections of the Naval Historical Center (photo # NH 97323).

USS Chowanoc (ATF-100) tows the decommissioned aircraft carrier ex-USS Philippine Sea (CVS-47), circa 1958. Philippine Sea was decommissioned, 28 December 1958, and berthed with the United States Reserve Fleet at Long Beach, California.

US Navy photo from All Hands magazine, November 1962 issue, p.30.

Task Force 77

USS Philippine Sea, CVA-47.

USS Philippine Sea, CVA-47.

VF-113 ["Stingers"], Korea 1952 [(31 December 1951–8 August 1952)], USS Philippine Sea (CV-47).

"Roadrunners," USS Philippine Sea CVS-47.

USS Philippine Sea, CVA-47.