U.S.S. MAKIN ISLAND

Launched and commissioned in 1944, Makin Island was a Casablanca-class escort carrier, active during World War II. As part of the US Pacific Fleet, she participated in the Philippines campaign, Invasion of Iwo Jima, Battle of Okinawa and Operation Magic Carpet. For her service, she earned five battle stars.

Career Highlights

Makin Island began her career transporting men and aircraft to bases in Pearl Harbor, Majuro and Kwajalein before returning the San Diego. She returned to the Pacific, traveling through Eniwetok and Pearl Harbor before ending up in Ulithi. She protected convoys in Leyte and conducted air operations. Next, she participated in the invasion of Luzon.

In early 1945, she was sailing for Lingayen Gulf when enemy fire rained down upon the carriers around her, destroying another carrier. Miraculously she avoided fire and arrived at her destination. She flew air support for amphibious operations. She was involved in pre-invasion actions during the invasion of Iwo Jima and provided air support. Though her carrier group fell under fire again, she remained unscathed. She sailed for Okinawa, where she provided fire support, replenished supplies and participated in reconnaissance missions.

In the summer of 1945, she sailed for the East China Sea to provide air cover for ships participating in minesweeping and raiding operations. Moving onto Honshu, she provided air support as the Allied POW’s were evacuated. Following the War, she transported troops back to the US. She was decommissioned in 1946 and scrapped in 1947.