USS Lexington (CV-2)
Introduction
The USS Lexington (CV-2), often referred to as "Lady Lex," was a pivotal aircraft carrier in the United States Navy during the early 20th century. Originally designed as a battlecruiser, the vessel was converted into an aircraft carrier during construction, in accordance with the limitations set by the Washington Naval Treaty. Commissioned in 1927, the Lexington played a crucial role in the development of naval aviation tactics and was a key participant in several significant engagements during World War II.
Design and Construction
The USS Lexington was initially laid down as a battlecruiser in 1921 at the Fore River Shipyard in Quincy, Massachusetts. However, the Washington Naval Treaty of 1922, which aimed to prevent an arms race by limiting naval construction, led to its conversion into an aircraft carrier. The Lexington was launched on October 3, 1925, and commissioned on December 14, 1927.
The design of the Lexington was innovative for its time, featuring a full-length flight deck measuring 888 feet long and 106 feet wide. The ship displaced approximately 33,000 tons and was powered by turbo-electric propulsion, a novel system that provided both high speed and excellent maneuverability. The carrier was capable of reaching speeds up to 33.25 knots, making it one of the fastest ships in the U.S. Navy at the time.
Armament and Aircraft
The Lexington was armed with eight 8-inch guns in four twin turrets, primarily for defense against surface threats. Additionally, it was equipped with an array of anti-aircraft guns, including 5-inch/25 caliber guns and .50 caliber machine guns. The carrier's air group varied over time but typically included a mix of fighter aircraft, dive bombers, and torpedo bombers. Notable aircraft types that operated from the Lexington included the Grumman F4F Wildcat, Douglas SBD Dauntless, and Douglas TBD Devastator.
Service History
Pre-World War II
Before the outbreak of World War II, the USS Lexington was involved in numerous fleet exercises and training operations, which were crucial in developing carrier tactics and doctrine. The ship's presence in the Pacific was a significant factor in the U.S. Navy's ability to project power across the vast ocean. The Lexington also participated in humanitarian missions, such as delivering relief supplies to earthquake-stricken Nicaragua in 1931.
World War II
With the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, the USS Lexington was thrust into the forefront of the Pacific War. Initially, the carrier was tasked with delivering aircraft to the beleaguered garrison on Wake Island, but the mission was aborted due to the island's fall to Japanese forces.
Battle of the Coral Sea
The Lexington's most notable engagement was the Battle of the Coral Sea in May 1942, the first naval battle in history where opposing ships never sighted each other, relying entirely on aircraft to strike enemy vessels. During the battle, the Lexington's air group played a critical role in damaging the Japanese carrier Shōkaku and sinking the light carrier Shōhō. However, the Lexington sustained severe damage from multiple torpedo and bomb hits, leading to uncontrollable fires. Despite valiant efforts by the crew to save the ship, the order to abandon ship was given, and the carrier was scuttled by U.S. destroyers to prevent capture.
Legacy and Impact
The loss of the USS Lexington was a significant blow to the U.S. Navy, but the lessons learned from its service and the Battle of the Coral Sea were invaluable. The engagement marked a turning point in naval warfare, demonstrating the strategic importance of aircraft carriers over battleships. The tactics and strategies developed during the Lexington's service laid the groundwork for future carrier operations throughout the war.