Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 3:28:03-3:28:48

Saving USS Hornet after Santa Cruz

Restored propulsion offers Hornet a narrow escape but not an immediate return to combat.

Aircraft CarriersBattle Of The Santa Cruz IslandsDamage ControlPacific WarUS NavyUSS Hornet (CV-8)
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Question

What if USS Hornet restored enough power to move and escaped after the Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands?

Short answer

She might reach cover and undergo a major rebuild, returning another American carrier earlier, though lengthy repairs could keep her absent much like Enterprise.

Notes

Restored propulsion could give Hornet a chance to reach cover before the Japanese found her. That escape would still lead to a major repair. One possibility is an additional American carrier returning earlier in the war. The alternative comparison is Enterprise, with rebuilding keeping the ship out of service for a substantial period.