Q&A · 3:35:45-3:36:16

Did Japanese forces board the abandoned Hornet?

Japanese forces are thought not to have boarded Hornet because of her condition, although that recollection is uncertain.

Battle Of The Santa Cruz Islands Japanese Navy Ship Abandonment USS Hornet (CV-8)

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Question

Did Japanese forces board USS Hornet before she sank?

Short answer

Probably not, given her condition, although the recollection is uncertain.

Notes

Hornet's presence within an area controlled by Japanese forces does not establish that anyone boarded her. The reply doubts that she was in a condition to be boarded. It distinguishes control of the surrounding sea from physical possession of the ship. This remains an uncertain recollection rather than a confirmed account of a boarding.