American aircraft carrier USS Lexington. Naval history of USS Lexington, American aircraft carrier, from launch to participation in major wars also notice board for naval historians & families of ex-crew of USS Lexington.

To commemorate the carrier (CV-2) lost earlier in the war, The new Essex class carrier which was going to be called USS Cabot was renamed USS Lexington (CV-16).  Built at Bethlehem, Quincy and laid down on the 15th september 1941, and launched 26th september 1942 finally commissioned into the us navy on 17th February 1943.  In December 1943 her steering gear was damaged by a Arial torpedo, she managed to get back to Puget Sound navy Yard for repairs. Returning to action in March 1944. Took part in the Battle for the Mariana, and the famous "Turkey Shoot" her F6F's destroyed 45 enemy aircraft.  USS Lexington took part  in the attack on the Japanese carriers Zuikaku, Chitose and Zuiho all being sunk by Carrier aircraft. In November 1944 a kamikaze aircraft damaged her control island.  taken out of service on 23rd April 1947 and ion 1st October 1952 re designated CVA-16.  becoming  1963 the US navies training Carrier.  still active in the 1990's as CVT. 

Displacement: 27,200 tons and 34,881 tons full load.  Sped 32.7 knots, range 15,000 nautical miles at 15 knots.   Compliment: 2682   Armament: Twelve 5-inch,  Thirty two 40mm     Forty six 20mm  and 91 aircraft 

USS Lexington        Submitted by Larry Stern

CV16 USS Lexington, 29th March 1943

Order Code CV16

One copy only of original 1940's printed photo plate, 10" x 8" available, price ?15.  Please note image shown has been cropped for website purpose and more sky and sea and text is shown on the photo plate.   Please add post of  ?3 post for UK ?10 overseas, recorded airmail order photograph here

CV16 USS Lexington, 29th March 1943

Order Code CV16B

One copy only of original 1940's printed photo plate, 10" x 8" available, price ?15.  Please note image shown has been cropped for website purpose and more sky and sea and text is shown on the photo plate.   Please add post of  ?3 post for UK ?10 overseas, recorded airmail order photograph here