Please report any broken links or trouble you might come across to the Webmaster. Please take a moment to let us know so that we can correct any problems and make your visit as enjoyable and as informative as possible.

NavSource Online: Aircraft Carrier Photo Archive


Contributed by Mike Smolinski

USS PHILIPPINE SEA   (CV-47)
(later CVA-47, CVS-47 and AVT-11)

U.S.S. PHILIPPINE SEA
Courtesy of Al Grazevich


Flag Hoist/Radio Call Sign: November - Tango - Mike - Uniform
Tactical Voice Radio Call: "CASHEW"

Unit Awards, Campaign and Service Medals and Ribbons


Precedence of awards is from top to bottom, left to right
Top Row: Navy Unit Commendation / China Service Medal (extended) / World War II Victory Medal
2nd Row: Navy Occupation Service Medal ("Europe" clasp) / National Defense Service Medal / Korean Service Medal (9 stars)
3rd Row: Antarctica Service Medal / United Nations Korean Medal / Republic of Korea War Service Medal (retroactive)

CLASS - ESSEX (Long Hull) AKA TICONDEROGA
Displacement 27,100 Tons, Dimensions, 888' (oa) x 93' x 28' 7" (Max)
Armament 12 x 5"/38AA, 32 x 40mm, 46 x 20mm, 82 Aircraft.
Armor, 4" Belt, 2 1/2" Hanger deck, 1 1/2" Deck, 1 1/2" Conning Tower.
Machinery, 150,000 SHP; Westinghouse Geared Turbines, 4 screws
Speed, 33 Knots, Crew 3448.

Operational and Building Data

Initially named Wright, Philippine Sea (CV-47) was laid down by the Bethlehem Steel Co., Quincy, Mass. 19 August 1944, launched 5 September 1945, and commissioned 11 May 1946.

FATE

Decommissioned 28 December 1958 and berthed with the Reserve Fleet at Long Beach, she was redesignated AVT-11, 15 May 1959, and struck from the Navy List 1 December 1969. Sold to Zidell Explorations, Inc., Portland, OR, 23 March 1971. About 600 tons of her armor plate were put to use at the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory.


Click On Image 
For Full Size Image
Size Image Description Contributed
By And/Or Copyright
Name
Philippine Sea
NS024787
83k

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.

NavSource
Battle of the Philippine Sea
NS024787a
181k
Construction
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024783a
108k

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

S. Dale Hargrave
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024783b
158k

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

CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024783
554k

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.

NARA, via Michael Mohl
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024799
292k

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

Dave Schroeder and John Chiquoine
CV/CVA-47, 1946-1955
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024701
95k As completed, F9F Panthers on deck. Undated. USN
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024702
120k Transporting aircraft. Undated USN
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024703
181k Underway © EMC(SW) Brian Kroenung
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS0247aj
148k

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

National Naval Aviation Museum photo, # 1996.488.114.055.

Mike Green
Operation Highjump, 1946-47
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024752j
131k

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.

Robert Hurst
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024752k
199k

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.

Mike Green
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024752
64k

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.

Gary Schreffler
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024752a
53k
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024752b
79k
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024752c
86k
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024752g
20k
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024752d
86k
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024752h
17k
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024752e
73k
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024752f
105k
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024752i
63k

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.

Robert Hurst
"These photos are from Operation Highjump, USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), while my dad, Bruce Cooke, was among the first crew as a machine gunner."
Photos submitted by Bruce's son, David Cooke.


CVA-47 Philippine Sea
NS0247ag
TBM-3E Avenger, Attack Squadron (VA) 10A "Vultures."
566 Kb
CVA-47 Philippine Sea
NS0247aga
20mm battery.
295 Kb
CVA-47 Philippine Sea
NS0247agb
F8F-1 Bearcats, Fighter Squadron (VF) 10A "Be-Devilers."
336 Kb
CVA-47 Philippine Sea
NS0247agc
 
424 Kb
CVA-47 Philippine Sea
NS0247agd
 
479 Kb
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024727
91k

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).

NHC
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024753
118k

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.).

Robert M. Cieri
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS0247ad
236k

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.

Mike Green
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS0247ah
219k

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.

Mike Green
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024797
378k

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.

Bob Canchola, BT, USN (Ret.)
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024797a
2.18M
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024797b
541k
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024784
146k

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.

NARA
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024784a
784k

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

David Wright
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS0247ai
204k

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.

Mike Green
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024780
87k

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.

Robert M. Cieri
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024780a
99k
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024780b
84k
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024780c
71k
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024780d
73k
Korea, 1950–1953
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024794
114k

"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.

Tommy Trampp
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024791
92k

"(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)."

Tommy Trampp
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS100205805
46k

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.

Tracy White
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024785
47k

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

Gary Schreffler
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024785a
245k
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024790
302k

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.

Robert Hurst
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024788
261k

"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.

Bill Gonyo
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS0247ae
405k

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.

Tommy Trampp
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024789
189k

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.

Bob Canchola, BT, USN (Ret.)
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024789a
189k
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024747
149k

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.

Robert M. Cieri
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024796
176k

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

Chuck Shotwell,
via Yu Chu
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024796a
431k
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024796b
463k
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024708
87k

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).

Scott Dyben
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024709
111k

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 115 (VA-115) is behind them, with small bombs on its wing racks.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives (photo # 80-G-420919).

Scott Dyben
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024760
235k

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).

Gerd Matthes, Germany
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024761
205k

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).

Gerd Matthes, Germany
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024762
184k

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).

Gerd Matthes, Germany
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024763
257k

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).

Gerd Matthes, Germany
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024764
265k

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).

Gerd Matthes, Germany
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024765
214k

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).

Gerd Matthes, Germany
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024766
293k

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).

Gerd Matthes, Germany
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024728
88k

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).

NHC
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024767
232k

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).

Gerd Matthes, Germany
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024768
212k

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).

Gerd Matthes, Germany
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024769
217k

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).

Gerd Matthes, Germany
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024770
176k

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).

Gerd Matthes, Germany
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024771
227k

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).

Gerd Matthes, Germany
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024772
197k

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).

Gerd Matthes, Germany
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024773
205k

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).

Gerd Matthes, Germany
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024774
242k

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).

Gerd Matthes, Germany
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024710
100k

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).

Scott Dyben
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024775
189k

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).

Gerd Matthes, Germany
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024776
247k

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).

Gerd Matthes, Germany
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024777
584k

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).

Gerd Matthes, Germany
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024706
110k National Archives Photo 80-G-439869:  USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) flight deck scene, looking aft from the island, as the carrier is enveloped in a snowstorm off the Korean coast, 15 November 1950.  Planes on deck include Vought F4U-4B Corsair fighters and Douglas AD Skyraider attack planes. Note men on deck, apparently tossing snowballs, and what may be a toppled snowman just in front of the amidships elevator. Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives.
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024705
99k National Archives Photo 80-G-439871:  USS Philippine Sea (CV-47).  Grumman F9F-2 Panther fighters of Fighter Squadrons 111 and 112 (VF-111 & VF-112) parked on the flight deck, forward, during a snowstorm off the Korean coast, 15 November 1950. Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives.
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024781
93k

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).

Naval History & Heritage Command
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024793
88k

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).

Robert Hurst
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS09051603
132k

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).

NHC
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024755
111k

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."

US Navy photo (# USN 428187).

Courtesy of Scott Koen & ussnewyork.com
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024778
84k

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

Ron Reeves
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024711
107k

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).

Scott Dyben
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024704
102k National Archives Photo 439890:  General Motors TBM-3E Avenger (Bureau Number 91404) crashes into the barrier while landing on board USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), during operations in the Korean war zone on 17 January 1951. Note: Details of the carrier's island, with a LeTourneau crane parked nearby; splintered wooden decking below the plane; and hydraulic fluid spilling from the plane's port side landing gear leg (seen in the air just below and in front of the tailplane). Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives.
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024712
152k

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).

Scott Dyben
Louis N. Murray
Mike Green
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024729
98k

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).

NHC
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS0247ak
141k

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.

Robert Hurst
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024713
85k

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).

Scott Dyben
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024795
687k

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.

John Hill,
via Yu Chu
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS0247aa
867k

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.

Tommy Trampp
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024714
100k

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).

Scott Dyben
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024749
86k

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

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

Stanley Svec
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024750
143k

"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.)

Stanley Svec
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024730
107k

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).

NHC
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024730a
104k

"(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"

Ron Reeves
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024751
118k

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.

Robert M. Cieri
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024758
107k

"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).

Gerd Matthes, Germany
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024759
96k

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).

Gerd Matthes, Germany
CV-47 Philippine Sea et al.
NS0572206
144k

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).

NHC
CVA-47 Philippine Sea
NS024754
236k

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.

Robert M. Cieri
CVA-47 Philippine Sea
NS024782
80k

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.

Michael Rhode
CVA-47 Philippine Sea
NS024792
1.68M

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

Courtesy of Scott Koen & ussnewyork.com
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024745
100k

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.

Stanley Svec
Navasota
NS091910604
111k

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.

Photo by Donald Ravey
USS Electra
Navasota
NS091910605
142k

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.

Photo by Donald Ravey
USS Electra
CVA-47 Philippine Sea
NS024700
229k

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.

Mike Green
CVA-47 Philippine Sea
NS0247ac
294k

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.

Mike Green
CVA-47 Philippine Sea
NS0247ab
93k

"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).

Tommy Trampp
CVA-47 Philippine Sea
NS024726
64k

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

Photo by Roy Thomas
CVA-47 Philippine Sea
NS024748
137k

"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".

©Wayne Scarpaci
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024715
106k

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).

Scott Dyben
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024716
818k

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).

Scott Dyben
Larger copy submitted by Bob Canchola, BT, USN (Ret.)
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024717
128k

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).

Scott Dyben
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024707
275k

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.

Robert Hurst.
CVS-47, 1955-1958
CVS-47 Philippine Sea + DD-886
NS0588684
165k

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.

Bill Gonyo
CVS-47 Philippine Sea
NS024779
34k

"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"

Ron Reeves
CVS-47 Philippine Sea
NS024779a
38k

"(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"

CVS-47 Philippine Sea
NS024779b
76k

"(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.)

CVS-47 Philippine Sea
NS0247af
938k

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.

Ray D. Bean Collection,
via Yu Chu
CVS-47 Philippine Sea
NS024798
46k

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.

Robert Hurst
CVS-47 Philippine Sea
NS024731
93k

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).

NHC
ex-CVS-47 Philippine Sea
NS093910009
49k

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.

Robert Hurst
Patches & Miscellany
CVA-47 Philippine Sea
NS020928
100k

Task Force 77

Richard J. Havener (AT3)
CVA-47 Philippine Sea
NS024756
177k

USS Philippine Sea, CVA-47.

Wolfgang Hechler
CVA-47 Philippine Sea
NS024756a
187k

USS Philippine Sea, CVA-47.

Wolfgang Hechler
CV-47 Philippine Sea
NS024756b
210k

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

Tommy Trampp
CVA-47 Philippine Sea
NS024746
14k

"Roadrunners," USS Philippine Sea CVS-47.

Joe Radigan
CVA-47 Philippine Sea
NS024757
236k

USS Philippine Sea, CVA-47.

Wolfgang Hechler

For more photos and information about this ship, see:

Read the USS PHILIPPINE SEA (CV-47 / CVA-47 / CVS-47 / AVT-11) DANFS History entry

Crew Contact and Reunion Information
Date:  
Place:  
Contact: USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) Association
Address: PO Box 496412
Port Charlotte, FL 33949
Phone:  
E-mail: philsea@embarqmail.com
Web site:
Remarks:  

Related Links
Hazegray & Underway World Aircraft Carrier Pages By Andrew Toppan.
Korean Combat Action Reports located on the Naval History & Heritage Command Website

Main
Photo Index
Aircraft Carrier
Photo Index Page
Auxiliary Aircraft Landing Training Ship (AVT)
Index Page

Comments, Suggestions or Image submissions, E-mail Carrier Information
Problems and site related matters, E-mail Webmaster

This page was created by Paul Yarnall and is maintained by Fabio Peña
All pages copyright NavSource Naval History

Last update: 27 February 2024