Importance Score: 65 / 100 🔴
Sunken WWII Aircraft Carrier USS Yorktown Yields Astonishing Discovery in Pacific Depths
Explorers mapping the wreckage of the famed USS Yorktown, a pivotal World War II aircraft carrier, have made an extraordinary discovery more than three miles beneath the Pacific Ocean surface. The Yorktown, instrumental in numerous WWII engagements, ultimately succumbed to multiple Japanese torpedo strikes during the decisive Battle of Midway on June 7, 1942.
Wreckage Site Explored by NOAA Researchers
Located roughly 1,000 miles northwest of Hawaii, the final resting place of the Yorktown serves as a war grave for the 141 officers and crew members lost when the vessel sank. Undisturbed until its rediscovery in May 1998, the site has since been respectfully surveyed by researchers.
Ongoing Site Stewardship
A team from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), a US government agency, recently conducted further exploration of the 809-foot-long wreck as part of continued stewardship efforts at the location.
Unexpected Find: Vintage Automobile in Ship’s Hangar
During a submersible and remotely operated vehicle (ROV) survey on Saturday, April 19th, NOAA Ocean Exploration personnel encountered an unexpected and remarkable object.
Preserved “Woody” Car Spotted
Amidst the skeletal remains of the warship, the camera system identified an almost perfectly preserved automobile, notably featuring a spare tire still mounted on its hood.
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Vehicle Details and Potential Significance
According to reports, investigators believe the car is a “1940-41 Ford Super Deluxe ‘Woody’ in black.” NOAA further noted the presence of a front license plate, partially legible and displaying “SHIP SERVICE” at the top, though corrosion obscures the lower portion.
Possible Staff Car Origin
While Ford Super Deluxe staff cars were reportedly common within the Navy and Army on land, researchers are investigating the uniqueness of a “Woody” model serving staff officers, suggesting a potentially distinctive element of this particular vessel.
Connection to Rear Admiral Frank Fletcher
Located within the hangar of the USS Yorktown, the automobile is speculated to have belonged to Rear Admiral Frank Fletcher, given the Yorktown’s status as his flagship during the war.
Historical Significance of USS Yorktown and Battle of Midway
Reflecting on the exploration of the historic vessel, Naval History and Heritage Command Director Sam J. Cox, a retired US Navy rear admiral, commented: “The Battle of Midway represented a pivotal US victory, yet victory often comes at a heavy cost. The Yorktown and its air wing exemplified this sacrifice.”
Honoring WWII Valor
“The Navy expresses gratitude to NOAA and their partners for providing this opportunity for our nation to remember the extraordinary courage and selflessness of those who defended freedom during the darkest period of World War II. Their ultimate sacrifice bought crucial time for the US to mobilize fully for victory, thus safeguarding the freedoms we cherish today.”