The USS Hornet (CV-8) was a pivotal World War II aircraft carrier in the Pacific Theater. Launched in 1940, it famously launched the Doolittle Raid in 1942, the first U.S. airstrike on Japan. The Hornet played a crucial role in the Battle of Midway and the Solomon Islands campaign. Despite its might, it was sunk during the Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands in 1942. Its service exemplified the resilience and strategic impact of U.S. naval power. #history #ww2 #navy #naval #aircraftcarrier #usshorn

Last surviving WWII veteran of USS Hornet (CV-8) Alfred J. Payne (age 101) describes his job role during the Battle of Midway. He was 18 years old. ⚓️ #Wildcat #Warbird #USSHornet #BattleOfMidway #WWII #Veteran #Sailor #Navy250 | USS Hornet - Sea, Air and Space Museum

Alfred Payne (101) was the guest of honor for the ribbon cutting of the new USS Hornet CV-8 exhibit being put together! Alfred is the last surviving sailor from CV-8 when she was sunk at the Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands in October of 1942. Our museum ship, USS Hornet CV-12, is named in her honor. Stay tuned for the date of the official grand opening! 🎉🎉 | USS Hornet - Sea, Air and Space Museum