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CHAPTER XXV Part 1 of 2 (7 November 1971 to 25 January 1973) |
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USS Midway (CVA-41) underway on 20 June 1963, with F-3 Demon, F-4B Phantom II and F-8 Crusader jet fighters on her flight deck. The two Crusaders parked furthest forward are from Fighter Squadron 24 (VF-24). Photographed by PH1 J.D. Osborne. Official U.S. Navy Photograph, from the collections of the Naval Historical Center (# NH 97632). NS024123. NHC. |
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A Sailors tale of his Tour of duty in the U.S. Navy (August 1977 to February 1983) Operation Evening Light and Eagle Claw - 24 April 1980
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U. S. AIRCRAFT CARRIER SHIP HISTORY (1920 to 2019)
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U. S. AIRCRAFT CARRIERS REDESIGNATED AND OR RECLASSIFIED (1953 to 2016)
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ENERGY QUEST AND U. S. AIRCRAFT CARRIER DEPLOYMENT HISTORY INVESTMENT CAPITAL REQUIRED TO PUBLISH 55 EIGHTH HUNNDRED PAGE BOOKS, EBOOKS & CD’s (48 Navy Books)
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USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) History Vol. I of III (27 December 1982 to 6 May 2003)
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USS Coral Sea CV-42 CVB-43 CVA-43 and CV-43 History and Those Aircraft Carriers Operating with Coral Sea During Her Tour of Service CONSTRUCTION to LAUNCHING and EARLY JET AIRCRAFT DEVELOPMENT (10 July 1944—2 April 1946) and a Tour of Duty in the U. S. Navy (August 1977 to February 1983)
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Midway (CVA-41) remained inactive, as the ship adopted "cold iron" status at NAS Alameda, California (7 November to 6 December 1971); Restricted Availability Period (RAV) in Hunters Point Naval Shipyard (6 December 1971 to 3 February 1972), Independence Steaming Exercise (ISE) in northern California waters (14 to 17 February 1972), making port of calls at Naval Air Station, North Island, San Diego, California (24, 26 to 27 Feb. and 2 to 5 Mar.) in between Refresher Training intervals (28 Feb. to 1 Mar. and 6 to 9 Mar.), with Midway passing each test with flying colors, Carrier Qualifications (20 to 28 March 1972) and Refresher Operations during the period (4 to 6 April 1972). (7 November 1971 to 9 April 1972) CHAPTER XXV
“USS Midway (CVA-41) remained inactive, as the ship adopted "cold iron" status at NAS Alameda, California from 7 November to 6 December 1971.
USS Midway (CVA-41) proceeded across the San Francisco Bay to Hunters Point Naval Shipyard for an eight week Restricted Availability Period (RAV) and to start again the process of preparing for deployment on 6 December 1971. The history of the Midway - 1971 is primarily that of over four thousand crew members doing their particular job to the best of their ability. The Medical Department, for example conducted 473 surgical procedures while Dental instituted a dependents health program in addition to its normal support of the crew. Supply dispersed over 14 million dollars to crewmembers and still had tine to special order and deliver 200 Japanese motorcycles to the ship. The Deck Department engaged in 80 underway replenishments, without an incident or personal injury and the Air Wing, Air Department and Air Operations teamed up to compile 8,087 arrested landings. The year 1971 was a performance year for Midway. Having been deployed for 204 days the ship and Air Wing accounted for over five thousand sorties against the enemy, Midway’s reason for being.
January 1, 1972 found USS Midway (CVA-41) undergoing Restricted Availability Period (RAV) in Hunters Point Naval Shipyard. Ship's company and shipyard personnel were well on the way to completing the refurbishment of the ship in preparation for its return to “WestPac”” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1972).
Commandant 11th Naval District awards USS Midway (CVA-41) Project Handclasp award Plaque for outstanding services rendered on 6 January 1972.
Commemorative service held for late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. aboard USS Midway (CVA-41) on 14 January 1972” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for calendar year 1972).
USS Midway (CVA-41) conducted a Fast Cruise with no major problems encountered from 29 to 30 January 1972.
USS Midway (CVA-41) departed Hunters Point Naval Shipyard to conduct Sea Trials on 3 February 1972, with Midway returning to Alameda upon completion the following day, conducting Restricted Availability Period (RAV) in Hunters Point Naval Shipyard from 1 January to 3 February 1972. Ship's company and shipyard personnel completed the refurbishment of the ship in preparation for its return to “WestPac.” Commandant 11th Naval District awards Midway Project Handclasp award Plaque for outstanding services rendered on 6 January 1972. Commemorative service held for late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. aboard Midway on 14 January 1972. Midway conducted a Fast Cruise with no major problems encountered from 29 to 30 January 1972.
USS Midway (CVA-41) Award Ceremony was held on 11 February 1972.
USS Midway (CVA-41) remained at Naval Air Station, Alameda, California (RFS) from 4 to 13 February 1972, departing on 14 February 1972, conducting Independence Steaming Exercise (ISE) in northern California waters from 14 to 17 February 1972, returning on 17 Febrtuary 1972.
USS Midway (CVA-41) remained at Naval Air Station, Alameda, California (RFS) from 17 to 21 February 1972, departing on 22 February 1972, en route to Naval Air Station, North Island, San Diego, California, to undergo Refresher Training.
USS Midway (CVA-41) arrived Naval Air Station, North Island, San Diego, California on 24 February 1972, to prepare for Refresher Training in SOCAL OPAREA.
USS Midway (CVA-41) departed Naval Air Station, North Island, San Diego, California on 25 February 1972, to undergo Refresher Training in SOCAL OPAREA.
USS Midway (CVA-41) returned to Naval Air Station, North Island, San Diego, California on 26 February 1972, concluding Refresher Training in SOCAL OPAREA conducted the previous day.
USS Midway (CVA-41) departed Naval Air Station, North Island, San Diego, California on 28 February 1972, to undergo Refresher Training in SOCAL OPAREA, remaining in port from 26 to 27 February 1972.
The Human Relation Council, Minority Affairs Committee was established aboard USS Midway (CVA-41) 29 February 1972.
USS Midway (CVA-41) returned to Naval Air Station, North Island, San Diego, California on 2 March 1972, concluding Refresher Training in SOCAL OPAREA conducted from 28 February to 1 March 1972.
USS Midway (CVA-41) departed Naval Air Station, North Island, San Diego, California on 6 March 1972, to undergo Refresher Training in SOCAL OPAREA, remaining in port from 2 to 5 March 1972.
RADM. Seiberlich, COMASWGRU THREE visited USS Midway (CVA-41) on 8 March 1972.
USS Midway (CVA-41) conducted Refresher Training in SOCAL OPAREA from 6 to 9 March 1972.
COMFLETRAGRU SDIEGO sends well to done to USS Midway (CVA-41) for final battle problem in REFTRA on 10 March 1972.
USS Midway (CVA-41) returned to Naval Air Station, Alameda, California on 11 March 1972, making port of calls at Naval Air Station, North Island, San Diego, California (24, 26 to 27 Feb. and 2 to 5 Mar.) in between Refresher Training intervals (28 Feb. to 1 Mar. and 6 to 9 Mar.), with Midway passing each test with flying colors en route Alameda on 10 March 1972. RADM. Seiberlich, COMASWGRU THREE visited Midway on 8 March 1972 and COMFLETRAGRU SDIEGO sends well to done to Midway for final battle problem in REFTRA on 10 March 1972.
USS Midway (CVA-41) remained at Naval Air Station, Alameda, California (RFS) from 11 to 19 March 1972, departing on 20 March 1972, conducting Carrier Qualifications from 20 to 28 March 1972, returning on 28 March 1972.
USS Midway (CVA-41) remained at Naval Air Station, Alameda, California (RFS) from 29 March to 3 April 1972, departing on 4 April 1972, with CVW-5 and attached squadrons reporting aboard for Refresher Operations during the period from 4 to 6 April 1972 in the South Dakota Military Affairs Committee Cruise on 4 April 1972. On the 6th Midway was made the "Ready" Carrier in the Eastern Pacific, and was called upon to deploy to the Western Pacific with ninety hours notice. Notification received that Midway was awarded the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Korea) for operations for the period 17 to 19 October 1971 and that Meritorious Unit Commendation Ribbon was approved for South Dakota Military Affairs Committee Cruise by CNO reached Midway on 6 April 1972.
ADM E. R. Zumwalt, JR., CNO visited USS Midway (CVA-41) on 8 April 1972.
USS Midway (CVA-41) remained at Naval Air Station, Alameda, California (RFS) from 7 to 9 April 1972” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1972).
Ninth “WestPac” deployment, operating with the Pacific Fleet and the 7th Fleet, her ninth South China Sea deployment, on her third Vietnam Combat Cruise on “Yankee Station” in the Far East (10 April 1972 to 8 March 1973). CHAPTER XXVI
“USS Midway (CVA-41) with Rear Admiral W. R. Flanagan relieved Rear Admiral J. L. Butts, as Commander and Captain K. L. Shugart, as Chief of Staff, Carrier Division One and Captain C. E. Myers, Commander, Carrier Air Wing 5 (CVW-5) embarked departed Naval Air Station, Alameda, California 10 April 1972, Captain S, R. Foley, Jr. relieved Captain W. L. Harris, Jr., as Commanding Officer, on her ninth “WestPac” deployment, operating with the Pacific Fleet and the 7th Fleet, on her ninth South China Sea, on her third Vietnam Combat Cruise on “Yankee Station” in the Gulf of Tonkin in the Far East, combat sorties against communist forces in North Vietnam, South Vietnam and Cambodia, returning to the war zone seven weeks earlier than her scheduled deployment date. She will under go her second deployment since her second recommission 31 January 1970, following completion of a four-year conversion-modernization at the San Francisco Bay Naval Shipyard, arriving 11 February 1966, ending the year of 1965 upon arrival from her seventh “WestPac” deployment, operating with the Pacific Fleet and the 7th Fleet, her seventh South China Sea, on her first Vietnam Combat Cruise on “Yankee Station” in the Gulf of Tonkin in the Far East. She will under go her eighth deployment since her first recommission upon completion of SCB-110 (August 1955 to 30 September 1957), decommissioning in August 1955 upon arrival from her World Cruise and first “WestPac” deployment, operating with the U.S. Atlantic Command (USLANTCOM) (Atlantic Fleet), operational control extending to the 2nd Fleet and Pacific Fleet and tour of duty with the 7th Fleet, on her first South China Sea deployment, for a five month SCB-110 modernization that included new innovations such as an enclosed bow and an angled flight deck to be installed at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Bremerton Washington. In April 1971, Midway made her seventeenth deployment, not sixteenth (second Caribbean Sea Cruise in areas off Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and Culebra Island, Puerto Rico. While en route on 22 April 1946, Midway rendered a 21-gun salute to President Harry S, Truman who joined the task group in USS Frankland D. Roosevelt (CVB-42), flagship of the EIGHTH Fleet (and after visiting Port of Spain, Trinidad, the President left the task Group (1st FWFD) (19 April to 10 June 1946 (53-days)) or 3rd North Atlantic Cruise (Ports of calls included: Firth of Clyde, Greenock, Scotland Cherbourg, France) (26 August to 8 October 1952 (37-days)), as reported in Midway’s 1971 Command History Report 13,000 tons heavier than her original full pay load figure; redesignated CVA-41 on 1 October 1952. he will under go her 18th Foreign Water Fleet Deployment (FWFD) since her commission 10 September 1945, having the destination of being the lead ship of her class, and the first to be commissioned after the end of lead ship of her class, and the first to be commissioned after the end of World War II” (Ref. 1-Midway, 72, 1181, 1181A, 1181B, 1181C, 1181DD, 1181E, 1181E1, 1181F, 1181G, 1181H, 1181I, 1181J, 1181N, USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1946, 1952, 1971 & 1972).
USS Midway (CVA 41) WestPac Cruise Book 1972-73 – Ref. 1181 The Cruise – Ref. 1181A Chain of Command – Ref. 1181B Carrier Division One Staff– Ref. 1181C Highlights and Places Visited – Ref. 1181DD
USS Midway (CVA-41) with CVW-5 (NF) (10 April 1972 to 8 March 1973)
“USS Worden (CG-18) and USS Towers (DDG-9) joined up with USS Midway (CV-41) as part of her task force” (Reef. 84A).
“With a full complement of crew and Air wing, USS Midway (CVA-41) sailed from Naval Air Station, Alameda, California after a one day stay for fuel and supplies on 10 April 1972. Midway set sail for work up of the Air wing and subsequent combat missions in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin on “Yankee Station”, conducting combat missions or strikes against North Vietnam targets” (Ref. 405 & USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1972).
“Meritorious Unit Commendation was awarded USS Midway (CVA-41) on 15 April 1972” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for calendar year 1972).
“On 16 April 1972, CVW-15 struck Haiphong in the first major strike above the 20th parallel since the resumption of the bombing of North Vietnam. Efforts were now directed at disrupting the flow of supplies southward. USS Coral Sea (CVA-43) began pounding Haiphong” (Ref. 43).
USS Midway (CVA-41) pulled in for a port of call at Subic Bay, Republic of Philippines on 22 April 1972, en route Subic Bay, R. P. 11 to 21 April 1972.
After work up of the Air wing, en route Southern Station/TTY from 24 to 29 April 1972, USS Midway (CVA-41) commenced combat missions on her first line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin when CVW-5 began flight operations in the Southern Stations OPS, conducting combat missions or strikes against North Vietnam targets on 30 April 1972” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1972).
“Operations by United States Navy and United States Marine Corps aircraft in Vietnam expanded significantly throughout April 1972 with a total of 4,833 Navy sorties in the south and 1,250 in the north” (Ref. 1-Coral Sea & 72).
“By the end of April, the strikes covered more areas in North Vietnam throughout the area below 20° 25'N” (Ref. 1-Hancck, Kitty Hawk & 60A).
“VA-115 attached to Carrier Air Wing 5 (CVW-5) embarked USS Midway (CVA-41) suffered the operational loss of KA6D ARAB 516 on 2 May 1972” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for calendar year 1972).
“In May of 1972, President Richard Nixon had visited Iran and the Shah had mentioned to him that MiG-25 Foxbat aircraft of the Soviet Air Force had regularly been flying unimpeded over Iranian territory. The Shah asked Nixon for equipment which could intercept these high-speed intruders, and Nixon told the Shah that he could order either the F-14 Tomcat or the F-15 Eagle” (Ref. 28).
“Operation Pocket Money, the mining campaign against principal North Vietnamese ports, was launched on 9 May 1972. Early that morning, an EC-121 aircraft took off from Da Nang airfield to provide support for the mining operation. A short time later, USS Kitty Hawk (CVA-63) launched 17 ordnance-delivering sorties against the Nam Dinh railroad siding as a diversionary air tactic. Poor weather, however, forced the planes to divert to secondary targets at Thanh and Phu Qui which were struck at 090840H and 090845H, Vietnam time, respectively” (Ref. 362C).
“Much of the military equipment required by the North Vietnamese had arrived by Eastern Bloc ships, and Operation Pocket Money had been developed to cut that flow of supplies. Beginning Pocket Money, three A-6A Intruders and six A-7E Corsair II aircraft loaded with naval mines from USS Coral Sea (CVA-43), supported by an EKA-3B Skywarrior in support of the mining operation directed against the outer approaches to Haiphong Harbor, laid a total of 36 MK 52-2 mines in the outer approaches to Haiphong harbor on 9 May 1972. Their mission initiated a campaign that ultimately sowed 108 special MK 52-2s and more than 11,000 MK 36 type destructor mines over the next eight months. The mining proved to be one of the most successful naval operations of the war, closing the port of Haiphong for upward of 10 months” (Ref. 362C & 1-Constellation & 72).
“The mining aircraft departed the vicinity of USS Coral Sea (CVA-43) at 090840H in order to execute the mining at precisely 090900H to coincide with the President Richard M. Nixon's public announcement in Washington that mines had been seeded. The A-6 flight led by the CAG, Cmdr. Roger E. Sheets, was composed of United States Marine Corps aircraft from VMA-224 and headed for the inner channel. The A-7Es, led by Cmdr. Leonard E. Giuliani and made up of aircraft from VA-94 and VA-22, were designated to mine the outer segment of the channel. Each aircraft carried four MK 52-2 mines. Capt. William R. Carr, USMC, the bombardier-navigator in the lead plane, established the critical attack azimuth and timed the mine releases.
The first mine was dropped at 090859H and the last of the field of 36 mines at 090901H. Twelve mines were placed in the inner segment and the remaining 24 in the outer segment. All MK 52-2 mines were set with 72-hour arming delays, thus permitting merchant ships time for departure or a change in destination consistent with the President's public warning. It was the beginning of a mining campaign that planted over 11,000 MK 36 type destructor and 108 special MK 52-2 mines over the next eight months. It is considered to have played a significant role in bringing about an eventual peace arrangement, particularly since it so hampered the enemy's ability to continue receiving war supplies” (Ref. 1-Coral Sea).
“Operation Linebacker I began on 10 May 1972 and consisted of heavy strikes of targets in most of “Operation Linebacker I” began on 10 May 1972 and consisted of heavy strikes of targets in most of North Vietnam, which evolved and lasted until restrictions on operations above 20°N were imposed on 22 October.
The operation was an outgrowth of Operation Freedom Train and President Richard M. Nixon's mining declaration, which also stated that the U.S. would make a maximum effort to interdict the flow of supplies in North Vietnam. On this first day of Linebacker I, the Navy shifted its attacks from targets in southern North Vietnam to the coastal region embracing Haiphong north to the Chinese border. In all, 173 attack sorties were flown in this region this day, although another 62 were directed into South Vietnam in continuing support of allied forces there.
It was the most intensified air-to-air combat day of the entire war. Navy flyers shot down eight MiGs. An F-4 Phantom II, from VF-96 attached to CVW-9 on board USS Constellation (CVA-64) while engaged in aerial combat over Haiphong, shot down three MiGs for the first triple downing of enemy MiGs by one plane during the war. Lt. Randall H. Cunningham was the pilot and Lt. j.g. William P. Driscoll was the RIO of the F-4. These three MiG downings, coupled with their 19 January and 8th of May downing of two MiGs, made Lt. Cunningham and Lt. Driscoll the first MiG aces of the Vietnam War.
Three more MiG-17s were downed by two other VF-96 crews, two by Lts. Michael J. Connelly and Thomas J. Blonski and one by Lt. Steven C. Shoemaker and Ltjg. Keith V. Crenshaw. Adding to the score, VF-92 aircrew Lt. Curt Dose and Lieutenant Commander James McDevitt shot down a MiG-21. All told, Constellation fliers shot down seven MiGs on 10 May 1972, while one MIG was shot down by pilots of VF-51 off USS Coral Sea (CVA-43)” (Ref. 1-Constellation & 72).
“On 11 May 1972, aircraft from USS Midway (CVA-41) along with those from USS Coral Sea (CVA-43), USS Kitty Hawk (CVA-63), and USS Constellation (CVA-64) continued laying minefields in ports of signicance to the North Vietnamese — Thanh Hoa, Dong Hoi, Vinh, Hon Gai, Quang Khe and Cam Pha as well as other approaches to Haiphong. Ships that were in port in Haiphong had been advised that the mining would take place and that the mines would be armed 72 hours later. Early mining was not confined solely to the seven principal ports. Other locations were also seeded early in the campaign, including the Cua Sot, Cap Mui Ron, and the river mouths, Cua Day and Cua Lac Giang, south of Don Son and the Haiphong port complex” (Ref. 1-Midway & 72).
“The following day, 12 May, the 72-hour delay arming time on the initial mines laid at Haiphong was up at 120900H Vietnam time. Nine ships at Haiphong had taken advantage of the grace period to depart the port. Twenty-seven ships remained. Both Soviet and Soviet-bloc ships headed for Haiphong at the time had diverted to different destinations, thus avoiding a direct confrontation with the minefields” (Ref. 1-Constellation).
“After work up of the Air wing, USS Midway (CVA-41) was en route Southern Station/TTY from 24 to 29 April 1972, conducting combat missions on her first line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin when CVW-5 began flight operations in the Southern Stations OPS AREA, combat missions or strikes against North Vietnam targets from 30 April to 12 May 1972, arriving “Yankee Station” on 13 May 1972.
On 12 May 1972, aircraft from USS Midway (CVA-41) stood down while it proceeded North to Yankee (Station?? Something is missing from bottom of this page to top of next page), yet we can conclude in addition to missing content, Midway ‘icipated” (particpated) in armed RECCE and mining missions designed to impede the flow of men and material moving south to support the enemy war effort. The targeting effort started out with specific emphasis on lines of communication. As the existing targets in that category were damaged or destroyed, additional targeting of industrial complexes was made available for strike. Enemy defensive reactions in North Vietnam were radically different from that experienced in MR's III and IV in South Vietnam. Heaviest AAA was encountered around strategic bridges and choke points as well as within the major cities of Haiphong, Nam Dinh, Thanh Hoa and Vinh. Most of the reaction was random barrage type, but some 57mm and 85mm were of the tracking variety. The SAM Order of Battle continued to shift to the south in an apparent effort to cover enemy advance into South Vietnam and Laos.
RADM D. W. Cooper, CTF 77 visited USS Midway (CVA-41) on 16 May 1972.
Two MIG 19’s were downed by Rockriver 110 of VF-161 attached to Carrier Air Wing 5 (CVW-5) embarked USS Midway (CVA-41) on 18 May 1972.
VA-56 attached to Carrier Air Wing 5 (CVW-5) embarked USS Midway (CVA-41) suffered the loss of LT Aubrey A. NICHOLS when A7B Champion 411 was downed by enemy fire on 19 May 1972.
VF-151 attached to Carrier Air Wing 5 (CVW-5) embarked USS Midway (CVA-41) suffered the operational loss of F4B Switchbox 203 on 21 May 1972.
VADM F. A. Bardshar, Director Tactical Electromagnetic Programs; RADM J. S. Lake, NAVMATCOM visited USS Midway (CVA-41) on 21 May 1972.
Two MIG 19's and two 17's were shot down by Rockriver 100 of VF-161 attached to Carrier Air Wing 5 (CVW-5) embarked USS Midway (CVA-41) aircraft on 18 and 23 May 1972, respectively, with both engagements in the vicinity of Kep airfield. The engagement on 18 May involved two MIG 19's and two F-4 Rockrivers (crew Rockriver 110, pilot LT Henry Bartholomay, RIO LT Oran Brown / Rockriver 105 pilot LT Patrich Arwood; RIO LT Michael BELL), assigned as MIGCAP for an Alpha Strike on the Haiphong RR bridge. The MIG's were downed by a total of three sidewinders. In the 23 May engagement Rockriver 100 (pilot LCDR Ron McKeown; RIO LT Jack Ensch), assigned as MIGCAP for an Alpha Strike on the Haiphong PPS, downed 2 MIG 17's using 4 sidewinders.
Two MIG 17’s downed by Rockriver 100 of VF-161 attached to Carrier Air Wing 5 (CVW-5) embarked USS Midway (CVA-41) on 23 May 1972.
“An A7B Ravenjet 302 of VA-56 attached to Carrier Air Wing 5 (CVW-5) embarked USS Midway (CVA-41) was downed on 23 May 1972” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for calendar year 1972).
“USS Kitty Hawk (CVA-62), along with USS Constellation (CV 64), USS Coral Sea (CVA 43), USS Hancock (CVA-19), USS Midway (CVA-41), USS Saratoga (CVA-60), USS Oriskany (CVA-34) and USS America (CVA-66), began night operations regularly on 24 May 1972.
Three to four of the carriers mentioned above were maintained on “Yankee Station”, on a rotational basis, during the summer months” (Ref. 1-Kitty Hawk).
“ADM. B. A. Clarey, CINCPACFLT visited USS Midway (CVA-41) on 24 May 1972.
RADM Howard E. Greer, COMCARDIV THREE visited USS Midway (CVA-41) on 27 May 1972.
An A7B Champion 406 of VA-56 attached to Carrier Air Wing 5 (CVW-5) embarked USS Midway (CVA-41) engages barrier on 28 May 1972.
USS Midway (CVA-41) was en route Southern Station/TTY from 24 to 29 April 1972, conducting combat missions on her first line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin when CVW-5 began flight operations in the Southern Stations OPS AREA, against North Vietnam targets from 30 April to 12 May 1972 (13-days), followed by operations on “Yankee Station” from 13 to 31 May 1972 (19-days). During the first line period Midway was tasked with direct air support of friendly ground forces in Military Regions III and IV of South Vietnam. The majority of missions were flown in defense of An Loc, the provincial capital of Binh Long Province, approximately 60 miles north of Saigon. An Loc had been under heavy attack from. Communist forces invading the area from Cambodia and its loss would have been a serious military and psychological blow to the Republic of Vietnam. Midway strikes were primarily FAC controlled and the targets consisted of bunkers, trucks, supplies, enemy armament, troops and structures. Enemy defensive reactions in MR’s III and IV were relatively light consisting mainly of 23/37mm AAA and 51 Cal automatic weapons. These reactions were encountered around the city of An Loc which was partially occupied by NVN troops. The highest number of SAM's seen in a single Midway mission during the first line period was 8 to 14 during a strike on the Haiphong Highway Bridge on 25 May 1972. The MIG response to U. S. strikes increased appreciably with resumption of the bombing of North Vietnam. The major bases remained North of 20 degrees North with sporadic shifting of MIG's to the lower package areas.
USS Midway (CVA-41) arrived Subic Bay, Republic of Philippines on 2 June 1972, en route from “Yankee Station” on 1 June 1972, ending her first line period en route Southern Station/TTY from 24 to 29 April 1972, conducting combat missions or strikes against North Vietnam targets on her first line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin when CVW-5 began flight operations in the Southern Stations OPS AREA from 30 April to 12 May 1972 (13-days), followed by operations on “Yankee Station” from 13 to 31 May 1972 (19-days) .
RADM Carl L. Seiberlich, COMASWGRU THREE visited USS Midway (CVA-41) on 6 June 1972.
USS Midway (CVA-41) First Line Period (Deployment transit and first line period 10 April to 9 June 1972 reported in the Ships Command History Report (CHR), is refreeing to a Group of days that include transit and or port of call periods, and does not reflect actual time on a line period, based on 13 to 31 May Yankee Station OPS also reported in the CHR) in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin when CVW-5 began flight operations in the Southern Stations OPS AREA, conducting combat missions or strikes against North Vietnam targets from from 30 April to 12 May 1972 (13-days), arriving “Yankee Station” on 13 May 1972 on “Yankee Station” from 13 to 31 May 1972 (19-days).
1972 North Vietnam Sortie statistics:
1972 BDA – (bomb damage assessment) in North Vietnam:
“USS Midway (CVA-41) made a port of call at Subic Bay, Republic of Philippines from 2 to 9 June 1972, departing to conduct combat missions against North Vietnam targets, on her second line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin.
After a ten day stay in Cubi Point, USS Midway (CVA-41) headed directly back to “Yankee Station” en route on 10 June and began flying the second day out of port, commencing combat missions against North Vietnam targets, on her second line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin when CVW-5 began flight operations on “Yankee Station” against North Vietnam targets on 11 June 1972.
An EAK-3B ROBY 611 of VAQ 130 attached to Carrier Air Wing 5 (CVW-5) embarked USS Midway (CVA-41) made wheels up landing on 15 June 1972.
An RF8G BABY GIANT 601 of VFP-63 attached to Carrier Air Wing 5 (CVW-5) embarked USS Midway (CVA-41) downed on 16 June 1972.
MGEN Leslie E. Brown, USMC Commanding General; FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing; BGEN E. J. Miller, USMC; NINTH Marine Amphibious Brigade and RADM John S. Christiansen, COMCARDIV SEVEN visited USS Midway (CVA-41) on 1 July 1972.
MGEN George A. Godding, USA, ACOS J2 USMACV and COL Donald M. Philips, USA, Staff USMACV visited USS Midway (CVA-41) on 2 July 1972.
Carriers involved in Linebacker I operations were: “USS Constellation (CVA-64) and USS Coral Sea (CVA-43) were on “Yankee Station” on 18 January 1972 and joined up with USS Enterprise (CVA(N)-65), following her tour in the Indian Ocean in December 1971. Both Carriers were on line periods with few rest stops a long the way from 18 January to 30 June 1972. Actual deployment dates reflect 1 October to 30 June 1972 for USS Constellation (CVA-64) and departure from “Yankee Station” at the same time USS Coral Sea (CVA-43) departed “Yankee Station” on 30 June 1972, with Coral Sea arriving home on 7 July 1972. Other Carriers on “Yankee Station”” (Ref. 34).
“USS Midway (CVA-41) ended her second line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin when CVW-5 began flight operations on “Yankee Station,” conducting combat missions or strikes against North Vietnam targets from 11 June to 7 July 1972 (27-days). During the second line period, 99% of the sorties were flown in North Vietnam. The majority of the flying was cyclic operations with a few days of Alpha Strikes and usually a mini-alpha (approximately 6 strike aircraft) as one of seven daily cycles. Emphasis was again placed on interdicting the lines of communication by destroying bridges, ferries, etc., and destroying POL storage areas, transshipment points and other lucrative targets. Ten Alpha Strikes were flown against bridge targets along with some mining. The emphasis during this period was on A6 night armed RECCE north of 21 degrees. During normal cyclic operations all major routes in Route Packages II, III, IV and VIB were covered, with emphasis on routes 1A and 15, which were considered the most lucrative. During this second line period Attack Squadrons 56 and 93 began to use the Walleye, achieving excellent results. Numerous bridges were destroyed along with 2 positions of a coastal defense site on Hon Nieu Island. Enemy defensive reactions in NVN continued at or above the level of the previous line period. SAM firing incidents increased in number over the previous line period. One reason was the increased exposure of Midway aircraft. VA-115 encountered a total of 19 SAM's on their single aircraft night missions.
USS Midway (CVA-41) Second Line Period (11 June to 7 July 1972 reported in the Ships Command History Report (CHR), is refreeing to a Group of days that include transit and or port of call periods, and does not reflect actual time on a line period, based on 11 June to 7 July Yankee Station OPS also reported in the CHR) in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin with CVW-5 flight operations on “Yankee Station”, conducting combat missions or strikes against North Vietnam targets from 11 June to 7 July 1972 (27-days)
1972 North Vietnam Sortie statistics:
1972 BDA – (bomb damage assessment) in North Vietnam:
“USS Midway (CVA-41) pulled in for a port of call at Subic Bay, Republic of Philippines on 9 July 1972, en route from “Yankeed Station” on 8 July 1972, ending her second line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin when CVW-5 began flight operations on “Yankee Station”, conducting combat missions or strikes against North Vietnam targets from 11 June to 7 July 1972 (27-days) .
Rear Admiral John L. Butts, Jr., USN was relieved by Rear Admiral William R. Flangan, USN, as Commander Carrier Division ONE (COMCARDIV ONE), on board USS Midway (CVA-41) at 1000, 10 July 1972, at Leyte Pier, Naval Air Station, Cubi Point, R. P. The ceremony took place in Hangar Bay One with Vice Admiral James L. Holloway, Commander SEVENTH Fleet as guest speaker. Approximately fifty (50) VIP guests were in attendance in addition to COMCARDIV ONE and Midway personnel. Rear Admiral Butts subsequently assumed command of the Hawaiian Sea Frontier; Fleet Air Forces, Hawaii; Naval Base, Pearl Harbor; and the Fourteenth Naval District.
CDR J. L. Terrell, USN relieves CDR C. R. Erie, USN as CO of VA-93 aboard USS Midway (CVA-41) on 11 July 1972.
CDR P. L. Barrisg, USN relieves CDR E. L. Carmiechael, USN as CO of VA-115 aboard USS Midway (CVA-41) on 12 July 1972” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for calendar year 1972).
“USS Midway (CVA-41) made a port of call at Subic Bay, Republic of Philippines from 9 to 15 July 1972, departing to conduct combat missions against North Vietnam targets, on her third line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin” (Ref. 405 & USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1973).
“En route “Yankee Station” on 16 July 1972, USS Midway (CVA-41) commenced combat missions against North Vietnam targets, on her third line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin when CVW-5 began flight operations on “Yankee Station,” against North Vietnam targets on 17 July 1972” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1972).
“LCDR Gordon C. PAIGE and RF8G BABY GIANT 601 of VFP-63 attached to Carrier Air Wing 5 (CVW-5) embarked USS Midway (CVA-41) was downed on 22 July 1972. PAIGE became a Prisoner of War.
An A7B CHAMPION 400 and A7B CHAMPION 414 of VA-56 attached to Carrier Air Wing 5 (CVW-5) embarked USS Midway (CVA-41) was downed on 23 July 1972” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for calendar year 1972).
“CAPT S. R. Foley, JR., USN relieves CAPT W. L. Harris, JR., USN as CO, USS Midway (CVA-41) on 31 July 1972 onboard USS Midway (CVA-41)” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for calendar year 1972).
“On 31 July 1972, in the Gulf of Tonkin, Captain Sylvester Robert Foley, Jr., USNA '50, assumed command during a change of command ceremony aboard USS Midway (CVA-41) on 31 July 1972, relieving Captain Leroy Eugene Harris, USNA ‘37, 26th Commanding Officer, serving from July 10, 1971 to July 31, 1972, as Commanding Officer of Midway. The invocation was given by Commander A. M. Parker, CHC, USN. The guest speaker was Rear Admiral Damon W. Cooper, USN, Commander Attack Carrier Striking Force, SEVENTH Fleet. The Senior Enlisted man of the ship, Master Chief M. D. Miller, USN, presented the pennant to Captain Harris and the benediction was read by Commander W. F. Cusick, CHC, USN. Prior to departure Captain Harris received his promotion to Rear Admiral, USN. Rear Admiral Harris subsequently assumed the position of Deputy Director, Naval War College, Newport, R. I.” (Ref. 1178-G & USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1972).
“There was a dramatic change in North Vietnam's air defense effort during the summer months of 1972. During the earlier periods of April and May, the Navy air effort in North Vietnam involved intensive air-to-air combat and a large number of surface-to-air missile (SAM) firings. In contrast, during June and July there was an increase in Linebacker I Navy attack sorties, but there was a decrease in the number of air-to-air combat incidents and SAM firings. After mid-June, almost all North Vietnamese aircraft sighted or engaged were MiG-21s.
During June and July 1972, night sorties constituted 30 percent of the total Navy attack effort in North Vietnam, relying primarily on the A-7 Corsair II and A-6 Intruder. About 45 percent of the Navy armed reconnaissance effort was at night during June and July. The A-7 flew about as many night sorties as it did day sorties. The A-6 flew more night than day armed reconnaissance sorties during the summer months. The total number of Navy night sorties during June and Jul were 1.243 and 1,332 respectively. Three to four of the carriers mentioned above were maintained on “Yankee Station”, on a rotational basis, during the summer months” (Ref. 1-Kitty Hawk).
“In July 1972, USS LA SALLE replaced USS VALCOUR, the first permanent flagship for the Middle East Force in 1961 after an extensive overhaul and redesignation as a miscellaneous command ship. When Bahrain gained independence from the British in 1971, ownership of HMS Juffair reverted to the Bahraini government. Through special agreement with the Bahrainis, the Navy leased part of the old British base and expanded U.S. operations there. USS VALCOUR became the first permanent flagship for the Middle East Force in 1961 after an extensive overhaul and redesignation as a miscellaneous command ship. The Persian Gulf Area Command was renamed the Middle East Force August 16, 1949. No permanent flagship was assigned, so duty rotated between three former seaplane tenders: USS DUXBURY BAY, USS GREENWICH BAY, and USS VALCOUR. The U.S. Navy established its first command in the Middle East January 1, 1949. Known as the Persian Gulf Area Command, its forces consisted of two destroyers and a small seaplane tender. Shore support was provided by buildings rented from the British Royal Navy at its installation HMS Juffair in the Gulf state of Bahrain. Bahrain, like many Gulf emirates, was a British protectorate at the time” (Ref. 359).
“CDR W. L. Chatham, USN relieves CDR N. L. Harvey, USN as CO of VA-56 onboard USS Midway (CVA-41) on 2 August 1972.
LTJG Michael G. PENN and his A7B CHAMPION 403 of VA-56 attached to Carrier Air Wing 5 (CVW-5) embarked USS Midway (CVA-41) was downed on 6 August 1972. PENN became a Prisoner of War” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for calendar year 1972).
“On 7 August 1972, an HC-7 Det 110 helicopter, flying from USS Midway (CVA-41), and aided by planes from the carrier and from USS Saratoga (CV-60), conducted a search and rescue mission for a downed aviator in North Vietnam. The pilot of an A-7 aircraft from Saratoga had been downed by a surface-to-air missile about 20 miles inland, northwest of Vinh, on 6 August. The HC-7 helo flew over mountainous terran to rescue the pilot. The rescue helicopter used its search light to assist in locating the downed aviator and, despite receiving heavy ground fire, was successful in retrieving him and returning to an LPD off the coast. This was the deepest penetration of a rescue helicopter into North Vietnam since 1968. HC-7 Det 110 continued its rescue missions and by the end of 1972 had successfully accomplished 48 rescues, 35 of which were under combat conditions” (Ref. 1-Midway & 72).
“An E-2 of VAW-115 attached to Carrier Air Wing 5 (CVW-5) embarked USS Midway (CVA-41) was downed en route to Japan on 8 August 1972” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for calendar year 1972).
“VADM T. J. Walker, USN, COMNAVAIRPAC visited USS Midway (CVA-41) on 10 August 1972.
USO/Miss America Show was hosted by USS Midway (CVA-41) on 11 August 1972.
USS Midway (CVA-41) ended her third line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin when CVW-5 began flight operations on “Yankee Station,” conducting combat missions or strikes against North Vietnam targets from 17 July to 13 August 1972 (89-days). There were no dramatic changes to overall policy from the previous line periods. Weather had generally deteriorated but the tasking for Alpha Strikes, Armed RECCE missions and coastal surveillance remained the same. Fourteen Alpha Strikes were flown during the line period.
Armed reconnaissance missions were degraded somewhat due to a continuous coastal surveillance tasking and deteriorating weather. The general effort was concentrated throughout the lower package areas during daylight hours while A6 aircraft struck and seeded areas in Route Packages IV, VIA and VIB at night. Heavy enemy truck traffic became apparent during this line period. During night operations Midway aircraft reported over 800 movers in Route Packages II, III, IV, and VIB, with an estimated 200 reported on one night alone. The AAA environment remained concentrated along lines of communication and around strategic targets in North Vietnam. During this line period a significant change occurred with the introduction of the ZSU23-4 to the enemy inventory.
The ZSU23-4 is a radar controlled, quadbarelled mobile 23mm AAA weapon mounted on a tracked vehicle and has a tactical range of approximately 9,850 feet. Its impressive rate of fire of 350 rounds per minute per barrel presented a significant threat to low flying Midway aircraft. The SAM environment remained essentially as it was during previous line periods with one exception. Pilots from SEVENTHFLT CVA's began to report what later became nicknamed the "black SAM". This missile was black in color, was slower, shorter and larger in diameter than SA-2's. Most important it seemed to react more quickly to evasive maneuvers of US aircraft. There were no MIG sightings or engagements by Midway aircraft during the line period.
USS Midway (CVA-41) Third Line Period (16 July to 13 August 1972 reported in the Ships Command History Report (CHR), is refereeing to a Group of days that include transit and or port of call periods, and does not reflect actual time on a line period, based on 17 July to 13 August Yankee Station OPS also reported in the CHR) in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin with CVW-5 flight operations on “Yankee Station,” conducting combat missions or strikes against North Vietnam targets from 17 July to 13 August 1972 (89-days)” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1972):
1972 North Vietnam Sortie statistics:
1972 BDA – (bomb damage assessment) in North Vietnam:
“USS Midway (CVA-41) arrived Subic Bay, Republic of Philippines directly from “Yankee Station” on 14 August 1972, ending her third line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin when CVW-5 began flight operations on “Yankee Station,” conducting combat missions or strikes against North Vietnam targets from 17 July to 13 August 1972 (89-days) .
USS Midway (CVA-41) made a port of call at Subic Bay, Republic of Philippines from 14 to 15 August 1972, en route to Hongkong B. C. C.
USS Midway (CVA-41) arrived Hongkong B. C. C. on 17 August 1972, en route from the Subic Bay, Republic of Philippines from 15 to 16 August 1972.
USS Midway (CVA-41) made a port of call at Hongkong B. C. C. from 17 to 22 August 1972, departing to conduct combat missions on her fourth line period in the South China Sea in the Gulf of Tonkin on “Yankee Station”” (Ref. 405 & USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1973).
“After spending a rainy but relaxing six days in Hong Kong, USS Midway (CVA-41) spent the 23rd en route to “Yankee Station,” beginning with flying warm-up operations in South Vietnam during the daylight hours on the 24th. The weather during the period did much to hamper or completely stop flight operations, commencing combat missions on her fourth line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin on “Yankee Station” against North Vietnam targets when CVW-5 began flight operations on “Yankee Station” on 24 August 1972.
RADM Holder: OPNAV 06 and RADM Chon, CNO, RVN visited USS Midway (CVA-41) on 24 August 1972.
An F4B ROCKRIVER 100 of VF-161 attached to Carrier Air Wing 5 (CVW-5) embarked USS Midway (CVA-41) downed on 25 August 1972” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for calendar year 1972).
“An F4B SWITCHBOX 210 of VF-151 attached to Carrier Air Wing 5 (CVW-5) embarked USS Midway (CVA-41) downed on 27 August 72” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for calendar year 1972).
“AN A7B CHAMPION 405 of VA-56 attached to Carrier Air Wing 5 (CVW-5) embarked USS Midway (CVA-41) accidentally launches Sidewinder on Flight Deck on 28 August 1972” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for calendar year 1972).
“During July and August, more than 45 percent of the Navy armed reconnaissance sorties were at night. However, in September 1972, only 31 percent of the armed reconnaissance sorties were flown at night. In South Vietnam, the Navy flew 1,708 tactical air attack sorties, a decrease from the level flown in August. About half of the Navy's tactical air sorties were close and direct air support sorties in South Vietnam” (Ref. 1-Kitty Hawk).
“Typhoon Elsie threatened the task force for three days before USS Midway (CVA-41) headed inland, causing suspension of flight operations on 1, 2 and 3 September 1972.
An A7B RAVENJET 307 of VA-93 attached to Carrier Air Wing 5 (CVW-5) embarked USS Midway (CVA-41) downed on 8 September 1972” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for calendar year 1972).
“USS Midway (CVA-41) ended her fourth line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin when CVW-5 began flight operations on “Yankee Station,” conducting combat missions or strikes against North Vietnam targets from 24 August to 10 September 1972 (18-days). Ten Alpha Strikes were launched and major emphasis continued to be placed on A7/F4 ARREC missions into RP's II and III and on A6 night sorties into RP VIB. Enemy AAA status remained much the same as the third line period. There were still heavy concentrations near the major urban centers and most of the encountered fire was barrage 23/37/57mm. The SAM envelope throughout North Vietnam remained essentially the same even though there was an appreciable increase in the number of photo confirmed sites and operating areas. Status reports showed 25 occupied sites, 15 confirmed operating areas, 2 probable operating areas and 11 suspected operating areas. During this line period photo confirmation was received of the presence of the MIG 21J in North Vietnam. Two of these aircraft were discovered at Hanoi/Gia Lam airfield. The presence of the FISHBED M (the export version of the MIG 21J) significantly increased the air threat of allied strikes by increasing the missile carrying capacity of the MIG 21, while also increasing its combat radius.
USS Midway (CVA-41) Fourth Line Period (24 August to 17 September 1972 reported in the Ships Command History Report (CHR), is refereeing to a Group of days that include transit and or port of call periods, and does not reflect actual time on a line period, based on 24 August to 10 September Yankee Station OPS also reported in the CHR) in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin with CVW-5 flight operations on “Yankee Station,” conducting combat missions or strikes against North Vietnam targets from 24 August to 10 September 1972 (18-days)” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1972):
1972 North Vietnam Sortie statistics:
1972 BDA – (bomb damage assessment) in North Vietnam:
“USS Midway (CVA-41) arrived Subic Bay, Republic of Philippines on 11 September 1972, ending her fourth line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin when CVW-5 began flight operations on “Yankee Station,” conducting combat missions or strikes against North Vietnam targets from 24 August to 10 September 1972 (18-days)” (Ref. 405 & USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1973).
“USS Midway (CVA-41) made a port of call at Subic Bay, Republic of Philippines from 12 to 17 September 1972, departing to conduct combat missions on her fifth line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin on “Yankee Station.”
After a six day stay in Cubi Point, en route “Yankee Station” from 18 to 19 September 1972, USS Midway (CVA-41) commenced her fifth line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin when CVW-5 began flight operations on “Yankee Station,” conducting combat missions or strikes against North Vietnam targets on 20 September 1972” (Ref. 405 & USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1973).
“During September the number of Navy tactical air attack sorties decreased from the level flown in August. There were 3,934 Navy tactical air attack sorties flown into North Vietnam down by about 800 from the August total. During July and August, more than 45 percent of the Navy armed reconnaissance sorties were at night. However, in September, only 31 percent of the armed reconnaissance sorties were flown at night. In South Vietnam, the Navy flew 1,708 tactical air attack sorties, a decrease from the level flown in August. About half of the Navy's tactical air sorties were close and direct air support sorties in South Vietnam” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1973).
Carriers operating on “Yankee Station” during the month of September were USS Hancock (CVA-19), USS Kitty Hawk (CVA-63), USS Midway (CVA-41), USS Saratoga (CVA-60), USS Oriskany (CVA-34), and USS America (CVA-66), and USS Enterprise (CVA(N)-65), arriving in October 1972, having deployed 12 September 1972 from her home port” (Ref. 1-Enterprise, Kitty Hawk & Midway).
“USS Midway (CVA-41) ended her fifth line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin when CVW-5 began flight operations on “Yankee Station,” conducting combat missions or strikes against North Vietnam targets from 20 September to 12 October 1972 (23-days). During this period 22 days of flight operations were completed including 5 days of partial RVN/LAOS operations. The weather during the period was typical of the transition from the Southwest to the Northeast monsoon. Although most areas were workable during the majority of the line period, cold surges would periodically move southward into the gulf from Mainland China preventing strikes for 2-3 day periods. A total of 23 Alpha Strikes were planned and of that number, only 11 were actually flown by Midway pilots. Target types included POL storage areas, truck parks, shipyard, explosive storage areas, bridges and railroad yards. The noteworthy strikes of the line period were the Phu Ly RR Bridge and Gia Lam RR yards Alpha Strikes flown on 7 and 11 October respectively. The Phu Ly RR Bridge was a prime LOC target which was being used to transport a large amount of supplies south to resupply the enemy in South Vietnam. It was unsuccessfully scheduled for strike for one month by the Daily Strike Planning Message before Midway pilots were able to launch and destroy it. The Gia Lam RR Yards strike enabled Midway pilots to strike at the very doorstep of the capital of Hanoi and cause extensive damage to a mainstay in the enemy logistics system.
VADM D. W. Cooper, CTF 77 visited USS Midway (CVA-41) on 12 October 1972.
USS Midway (CVA-41) Fifth Line Period (18 September to 21 October 1973 reported in the Ships Command History Report (CHR), is refereeing to a Group of days that include transit and or port of call periods, and does not reflect actual time on a line period, based on 20 September to 12 October Yankee Station OPS also reported in the CHR) in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin with CVW-5 flight operations on “Yankee Station,” conducting combat missions or strikes against North Vietnam targets from 20 September to 12 October 1972” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1972):
1972 North Vietnam Sortie statistics:
1972 BDA – (bomb damage assessment) in North Vietnam:
“USS Midway (CVA-41) arrived Subic Bay, Republic of Philippines on 14 October 1972, en route from “Yankee Station” on the 13th, ending her fifth line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin when CVW-5 began flight operations on “Yankee Station,” conducting combat missions or strikes against North Vietnam targets from 20 September to 12 October 1972.
USS Midway (CVA-41) made a port of call at Subic Bay, Republic of Philippines from 14 to 21 October 1972, departing to conduct combat missions on her sixth line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin” (Ref. 405 & USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1973).
“On 23 October 1972, the U.S. ended all tactical air sorties into North Vietnam above the 20th parallel and brought to a close Linebacker I operations. This goodwill gesture of terminating the bombing in North Vietnam above the 20th parallel was designed to help promote the peace negotiations being held in Paris, France. Air operations in South Vietnam followed the general pattern of the ground war. North Vietnam increased their small-scale attacks throughout South Vietnam in an apparent effort to gain territory before a possible cease-fire, while the main objective of Navy and Marine Corps tactical air sorties were close and direct air sorties in support of allied ground troops, with a view toward frustrating the enemy's desire to acquire territory before a cease-fire agreement was signed.
During May through October, the Navy flew a total of 23,652 tactical air attack sorties into North Vietnam. U.S. tactical air sorties during Linebacker I operations helped stem the flow of supplies into North Vietnam, thereby limiting the operating capabilities of North Vietnam's invading army” (Ref. 1-Kitty Hawk).
“During the five and one-half month period of Linebacker I, the Navy contributed more than 60 percent of the total sorties in North Vietnam, with 60 percent of this effort in the "panhandle", the area between Hanoi and the DMZ. Tactical air operations were most intense during the July-September quarter with 12,865 naval sorties flown. Most attack sorties in NVN fell into two classes-armed reconnaissance and strike. The former was directed usually against targets of opportunity within three main areas — near Hanoi, Haiphong and the Chinese border. Strike operations were preplanned and usually directed at fixed targets. Most types of fixed targets, not associated with armed reconnaissance, required approval by the Commander-in-Chief, Pacific, or by the Joint Chiefs of Staff, prior to attack. Principal Navy aircraft were the A-7 and A-6, which accounted for roughly 60 and 15 percent of the Navy's attack sorties, respectively. About 25 percent of the Navy's effort was at night” (Ref. 1-Kitty Hawk. & Midway).
“En route “Yankee Station” from 22 to 23 October 1972, USS Midway (CVA-41) commenced combat missions on her sixth line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin when CVW-5 began flight operations on “Yankee Station,” against North Vietnam targets on 24 October 1972” (Ref. 405 & USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1973).
“While in the Pacific, an A6A ARAB 501 of VA-115 attached to Carrier Air Wing 5 (CVW-5) embarked USS Midway (CVA-41) crashed on Midway Flight deck on 24 October 1972. ARAB 501 fractured the axle of the right main gear while recovering. The aircraft slipped the arresting gear, skidded up the deck into the pack forward and the BN ejected over the side. Five personnel were killed including the BN who was declared lost at sea after an intensive search terminated the following day. Twenty-three additional personnel were injured, including ten transferred to the 95th Army Evacuation Hospital Da Nang:” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for calendar year 1972).
“One A6A and one A7B were destroyed and one F4B was lost over the side. Three A7B’s and one F4B suffered major damage and one F4B suffered minor damage. A potentially disastrous fire resulting from the crash was completely extinguished within three minutes by Midway flight deck personnel. No disabling damage to the ship occurred and Midway launched strikes the following morning” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1972 & 84A).
“On 29 October 1972, a Memorial service for 5 men that died in crash on Midway Flight deck on 24 October 1972.
VADM Means Johnson, JR., NAVINSGEN visited USS Midway (CVA-41) on 30 October 1972.
LCDR Clarence O. TOLBERT and his A7B CHAMPION 403 of VA-56 attached to Carrier Air Wing 5 (CVW-5) embarked USS Midway (CVA-41) was downed on 6 November 1972.
VADM J. L. Holloway, III, COMSEVENTHFLT visited USS Midway (CVA-41) on 9 November 1972.
An A7B CHAMPION 401 of VA-56 attached to Carrier Air Wing 5 (CVW-5) embarked USS Midway (CVA-41) downed and A7B RAVENJET 314 of VA-93) downed on 10 November 1972. CDR Marion H. Isaacks, USN assumes Command of CVW-5 aboard USS Midway (CVA-41) on 14 November 1972” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for calendar year 1972).
“USS Midway (CVA-41) ended her sixth line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin when CVW-5 began flight operations on “Yankee Station,” conducting combat missions or strikes against North Vietnam targets from 24 October to 23 November 1972 (31-days). During the sixth line period Midway spent 31 days on the line and flew 27 of those days including 15 days of partial RVN/LAOS operations. The increased number of days flown in RVN/LAOS over previous line periods was due to poor flying weather over North Vietnam. During this period aircraft were tasked primarily for armed RECCE. Only six Alpha Strikes were planned and two of those -were actually flown. The North Vietnamese continued to exhibit great determination and effectiveness in their logistics program to move supplies south. Additionally, when the bombing was moved south of 20 degrees, the NVA AAA resources were relocated to the southern areas of Route Packages II, III and IV. Heavy AAA fire was experienced by aircrews throughout these Route Packages. Aircrews also reported an increased number of sightings of accurate 23mm fire which indicated that the ZSU-23 was being employed in increased numbers. The SAM envelope also moved south with the imposition of the "no fly" line at 20 degrees North. Twelve SAM’s were fired at Midway aircraft during the line period but no aircraft were lost or damaged. During the poor weather periods, Midway aircraft flew more in South Vietnam where the SA-7 threat had become widespread. Two Midway aircraft reported evading one SA-7 each during the line period” (Ref. 405 & USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1973).
“USS Midway (CVA-41) Sixth Line Period (22 October to 30 November 1972 reported in the Ships Command History Report (CHR), is refereeing to a Group of days that include transit and or port of call periods, and does not reflect actual time on a line period, based on 23 October to 23 November Yankee Station OPS also reported in the CHR) in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin with CVW-5 flight operations on “Yankee Station,” conducting combat missions or strikes against North Vietnam targets from 24 October to 23 November 1972 (31-days)” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1972):
1972 North Vietnam Sortie statistics:
1972 BDA – (bomb damage assessment) in North Vietnam:
“USS Midway (CVA-41) pulled in for a port of call at Subic Bay, Republic of Philippines on 25 November 1972, en route from “Yankee Station” on the 24th, ending her sixth line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin when CVW-5 began flight operations on “Yankee Station,” conducting combat missions or strikes against North Vietnam targets from 24 October to 23 November 1972 (31-days) .
USS Midway (CVA-41) made a port of call at Subic Bay, Republic of Philippines from 25 to 30 November 1972, departing to conduct combat missions on her seventh line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin” (Ref. 405 & USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1973).
“CDR J. S. Disher, USN relieves CDR C. G. Kother, USN as CO of VF-151 aboard USS Midway (CVA-41) on 1 December 1972” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for calendar year 1972).
“En route “Yankee Station” from 1 to 2 December 1972, USS Midway (CVA-41) commenced combat missions on her seventh line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin when CVW-5 began flight operations on “Yankee Station,” against North Vietnam targets on 3 December 1972.
An RF-8G BABY GIANT 602 (VFP-63) loses wheel on landing aboard USS Midway (CVA-41) on 4 December 1972” (Ref. 405 & USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1973).
“USS Midway (CVA-41) ended her seventh line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin when CVW-5 began flight operations on “Yankee Station,” conducting combat missions or strikes against North Vietnam targets from 3 to 20 December 1972 (18-days). The weather hampered flight operations with one typhoon and several surges moving South over the Gulf and the Eastern half of Indo China. This line period was the shortest during the cruise to date and flying intensity was appreciably less than during other line periods. One mini-Alpha was conducted against Quan Lang airfield to quell a MIG threat on the sixth of December. General operations included armed reconnaissance missions which again suffered due to the adverse weather. The North Vietnamese continued using the major routes to funnel supplies south particularly route 1A. The final three days of the line period witnessed the advent of the Linebacker II program. Intensive A6A night bombing efforts in the Haiphong area on 18 and 19 December culminated the line period for Midway. The Linebacker II program consisted of coordinated A6A/F-111/B-52 bombing raids into Hanoi/Haiphong area and continued after Midway left the line. Enemy defensive reactions generally remained at the same level as previous line periods.
CDR J. S. DISHER, USN relieves CDR C. G. KOTHER, USN as CO VF-151 on 21 December 1972.
USS Midway (CVA-41) Seventh Line Period (1 to 31 December 1972 reported in the Ships Command History Report (CHR), is refreeing to a Group of days that include transit and or port of call periods, and does not reflect actual time on a line period, based on 3 to 20 December 1972 Yankee Station OPS also reported in the CHR) in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin with CVW-5 flight operations on “Yankee Station,” conducting combat missions or strikes against North Vietnam targets from 3 to 20 December 1972 (18-days)” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1972):
1972 North Vietnam Sortie statistics:
1972 BDA – (bomb damage assessment) in North Vietnam:
“Between 18 and 22 December 1972 the Navy conducted 119 Linebacker II strikes in North Vietnam. Bad weather was the main limiting factor on the number of tactical air strikes flown during this operation” (Ref. 1-Enterprise).
“Navy tactical air attack sorties under Linebacker II were centered in the coastal areas around Hanoi and Haiphong. There were 705 Navy sorties in this area during Linebacker II. Between 18 and 22 December 1972, the Navy conducted 119 Linebacker II strikes in North Vietnam. Bad weather was the main limiting factor on the number of tactical air strikes flown during Linebacker II” (Ref. 1- Ranger & Enterprise).
“USS Midway (CVA-41) arrived Singapore on 23 December 1972, en route from “Yankee Station” from 21 to 22 December 1972, ending her seventh line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin when CVW-5 began flight operations on “Yankee Station,” conducting combat missions or strikes against North Vietnam targets from 3 to 20 December 1972 (18-days)” (Ref. 405 & USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1973 & 405).
“The Bob Hope Christmas show 1972 included a show aboard USS Midway (CVA-41) while anchored at Singapore on 27 December. The two hour show included entertainers Bob Hope and his wife Dolores, Les Brown and his Band of Renown, Red Foxx, Lola Falana, Fran Jeffries, Rudy Cardenas, Belinda Green “Miss World”, Ingeborg Sorensen “Miss Norway” and Miss World Runner-up, and Bob Hope’s American Beauties. In attendance at the Show were officers and men of Midway and CVW-5, USS Inchon (LPH-12), USS Rich (DD-820), USS Tulare (AKA-112), USS Fresno (CL-121), USS Safeguard (ARS-25), and USS Cleveland (LPD-7). Also attending were the Singapore Minister of Defense, the Chairman of the Singapore Tourist Promotion Board, the U. S. Defense Attaché, the Officer-in-Charge of the Navy Office Singapore, the US Army Attaché, the Air Attaché, and Commander Amphibious Squadron SEVEN.
USS Midway (CVA-41) made a port of call at Singapore from 23 to 29 December 1972, en route to Subic Bay, R. P.” (Ref. 405 & USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1973).
“USS Midway (CVA-41) conducted crossing of Equator at 0000N/105-54.6E Initiation of POLLYWOGS on 30 December 1972” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1972).
“USS Midway (CVA-41) was en route Subic Bay, R. P. from 30 to 31 December 1972” (Ref. 405 & USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1973).
“USS Midway (CVA-41) arrived Subic Bay, Republic of Philippines on 2 January 1973, en route from Singapore to Subic Bay R.P. from 30 to 31 December 1972 to 1 January 1973” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1972 & 1973).
“USS Midway (CVA-41) made a port of call at Subic Bay, Republic of Philippines from 2 to 3 January 1973, departing to conduct combat missions on her eighth line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin” (Ref. 405 & USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1973).
“En route “Yankee Station” on 3 January 1973, USS Midway (CVA-41) commenced combat missions on her eighth line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin when CVW-5 began flight operations on “Yankee Station,” conducting combat missions or strikes against North Vietnam targets on 4 January 1973.
On 5 January 1973, VADM Cooper, Commander Attack Carrier Striking Force Seventh Fleet visited USS Midway (CVA-41).
On 6 January 1973, LT John C. LINDAHL, VA-56 was lost at sea.
On 10 January 1973, LT MICHAEL T. MCCORMICK and LTJG ROBERT A. CLARK, VA-115 were declared missing in action” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1973).
“USS Midway (CV-41) made her presence felt. In one week there were five MIG kills. Finally on 12 January 1973, a Midway F-4J, flown by Lt. Vic Kovaleska and R.I.O. Lt. Jim Wise, shot down the last MIG and the last aerial kill of the Vietnam War, when a Sidewinder missile brought down a North Vietnamese MiG-17. Navy and Marine Corps fighter and attack pilots bagged a total of 58 MiG-series fighters plus two An-2 biplane transports” (Ref. 1081O & 1083).
“The Bob Hope Christmas show 1972 included a show aboard the USS Midway (CV-41) while anchored at Singapore on 27 December 1972. Highlights of this show were seen on NBC on 17 January 1973 as the Bob Hope Christmas Show.
USS Midway (CVA-41) Eighth Line Period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin with CVW-5 flight operations on “Yankee Station,” conducting combat sorties against communist forces in North Vietnam, South Vietnam and Cambodia and after 16 January 1973, only Laos targets from 4 to 23 January 1973 (20-days)” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1973):
1973 North Vietnam, South Vietnam and Cambodia Sortie statistics:
BDA – (bomb damage assessment) for Eighth Line Period during 1973 North Vietnam, South Vietnam and Cambodia Operations:
“USS Midway (CVA-41) arrived Subic Bay, Republic of Philippines on 25 January 1973, en route from “Yankee Station” on the 24th, ending her eighth line period in the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin when CVW-5 began flight operations on “Yankee Station,” conducting combat sorties against communist forces in North Vietnam, South Vietnam and Cambodia and after 16 January 1973, only Laos targets from 4 to 23 January 1973 (20-days)” (Ref. 405 & USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1973).
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