The Most Decorated US Naval Vessel of World War II: USS Enterprise
The term ldquo;most decorated shiprdquo; is seldom described, as it seems to assume a common understanding of the criteria involved. Various methods were used to determine ship decorations in the U.S. Navy during World War II, including Presidential Unit Citations (PUC), Navy Unit Commendations (NUC), and battle stars.
Among these, USS Enterprise (CV-6) stands out significantly. She held the record with 22 battle stars for her extensive service in the Pacific. However, it’s the 20 battle stars earned by the ldquo;Big Erdquo; that solidified her place as the most decorated U.S. ship of World War II. Let's delve into the remarkable journey of this legendary ship.
USS Enterprise: A Legendary Carrier
Launched in the 1930s, USS Enterprise (CV-6) served as an escort during the Doolittle Raid on Tokyo, fought at the Battle of Midway, and fought at the Battle of Santa Cruz in 1942. Her service didn't end there; she provided crucial air cover for numerous operations from 1943 to 1944, including strategic landings at locations like Hollandia, Saipan, Guam, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa.
The "Gray Ghost": USS Enterprise and Her Decoys
USS Enterprise ldquo;The Big Erdquo; earned 20 battle stars, more than any other U.S. ship during World War II, and was the most decorated U.S. ship of the conflict. The Japanese reported her sinking three times during the war, earning her the ominous nickname ldquo;The Gray Ghost.rdquo; Despite her extensive damage during major engagements, she always managed to keep fighting.
A Legend Among Ships: USS Enterprise's Honors and Achievements
USS Enterprise CV-6 earned the distinction of two Presidential Unit Citations and became the only U.S. warship authorized to fly the Royal Navy Admiralty Pennant, a testament to her exceptional contributions. Her service record includes the only surviving original pre-World War II fleet carrier to see through the conflict. Despite her multiple damages and involvement in nearly every major battle in the Pacific, she was cut up into scrap in the late 1950s. Such a significant ship should have been preserved for its historical value.
Alternative Contenders: The Most Decorated Enemy Ship
If one were to look at the decoration awards from the perspective of enemy ships, the story changes. U-Boat 48, under the command of Captain Schultze, was a highly decorated and successful ship. U-48 received numerous decorations for sinking at least 56 merchant ships and one warship, a small corvette. No other submerged vessel achieved as much notoriety or damage during World War II.
Conclusion: The True Champion of World War II
While USS Enterprise was undoubtedly the most decorated U.S. naval vessel of World War II, the question of which ship earned the most decorations can vary depending on whether one considers the nationality of the ship or its status as an enemy vessel. Regardless of which ship claims the title, the legacy and remarkable service of the USS Enterprise should not be overlooked.