Opening air support for an amphibious assault differed from the repetitive flying needed after troops were ashore. Fleet carriers could provide the initial concentration of power, then leave to watch for enemy carriers, replenish, and prepare the next major operation. Keeping those scarce ships tied to a beachhead imposed wear and withheld their stronger air groups from more demanding missions. Escort carriers could remain nearby and sustain local support with a flight deck sized for that task. A mixed carrier force let its most capable ships depart once a lower-cost platform could carry the continuing burden.
Notable Point · 38:04-38:51
Why escort carriers stayed after fleet carriers left
Fleet carriers could deliver an amphibious assault's opening blow, while escort carriers absorbed the sustained local flying that followed.