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CHAPTER LXVII to LXVIII, Appendix I (14 July 1980 to 22 February 1981) |
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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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Operations Evening Light and Eagle Claw (24 April 1980) Iran and Air Arm History (1941 to 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 Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) History Vol. II of III (7 May 2003 to 13 January 2010)
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USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) History Vol. III of III (14 January 2010 to 31 December 2012)
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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)
ISBN: 9781434382917
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At 0720 CDT on 29 July 1980 USS Midway (CV-41) collided with the 450-foot Panamanian freighter Cactus while transiting between the Palawan Island and North Borneo, 450 miles southwest of the U.S. naval base at Subic Bay, the Philippines. There was no significant damage to the carrier (catwalks and deck supports on the port side were damaged, an elevator jammed and three holes were punched in the ship's hull plates) but several parked F-4J and RF-4B Phantom II aircraft on the flight deck were damaged. Two sailors were killed and three injured onboard Midway - NS0241aa - U.S. Navy photo taken on 31 July 1980 - DefenseImagery.mil (#DN-SN-84-03467). http://www.navsource.org/archives/02/0241aa.jpg
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28th deployment, as the U. S. Navy’s forward-deployed carrier operating with the 7th Fleet, in the Western Pacific Region, conducting Operations in the Pacific Ocean, participating in MISSILEX/AAWEX off Okinawa and CVW-5 aircraft services provided for PHIBLEX, on her 17th “WestPac”, on her 27th South China Sea, to rendezvous in the Northern Malaccan Strait with USS Constellation (CV-64) for turnover, making a Transit Southwest towards Diego Garcia, an archipelago of 55 islands in the Indian Ocean South of India, British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT), her seventh Indian Ocean, were she will relieve USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) on Gonzo Station, on her fourth Arabian Sea, on her second Northern Arabian Sea, for operations in the Gonzo Station and when USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) returns to Gonzo Station, participates in a major CV-to-CV (N) exercise with IKE-Exercise Gonzo 80-5 on Gonzo Station in the Northern Arabian Sea, on her and en route Yokosuka, will under go Operational Propulsion Plant Recertification Exam (OPPRE) (14 July to 26 November 1980) and conducted Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan (NAF Atsugi, Japan) (26 November to 16 December 1980). (14 July to 15 December 1980) CHAPTER LXVII
“USS Midway (CV-41) with RADM R. E. Kirksey, COMCARGRU THREE, serving as Commander, Carrier Strike Force Seventh Fleet (CTF-77), Commander, Task Group, CTG-77.4 in the Western Pacific Region since 11 April 1979, and multi-hatted as Commander, Carrier Group FIVE, CCG-5, (COMCARGRU FIVE) and Commander Task Force 70 (CTF-70), the latter task force also being known as Battle Force 7th Fleet and Surface Combatant Force Seventh Fleet (CTF-75) on 11 August 1979 assigned, embarking on 12 July 1980 and CDR S. R. Briggs, Commander, Carrier Air Wing Five (CVW-5) embarked departed Yokosuka, Japan (NAF Atsugi, Japan) on 14 July 1980, with Captain "E" I. Carmichael, as Commanding Officer, on her 28th deployment, as the U. S. Navy’s forward-deployed carrier operating with the 7th Fleet, in the Western Pacific Region, conducting Operations in the Pacific Ocean, participating in MISSILEX/AAWEX off Okinawa and CVW-5 aircraft services provided for PHIBLEX, on her 17th “WestPac”, on her 27th South China Sea, to rendezvous in the Northern Malaccan Strait with USS Constellation (CV-64) for turnover, making a Transit Southwest towards Diego Garcia, an archipelago of 55 islands in the Indian Ocean South of India, British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT), her seventh Indian Ocean, were she will relieve USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) on Gonzo Station on 31 August 1980 from where she had departed 3 February, on her fourth Arabian Sea, on her second Northern Arabian Sea, for operations in the Gonzo Station and when USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) returns to Gonzo Station, participates in a major CV-to-CV (N) exercise with IKE-Exercise Gonzo 80-5 on Gonzo Station in the Northern Arabian Sea, on her and en route Yokosuka, will under go Operational Propulsion Plant Recertification Exam (OPPRE); redesignated CV-41, reclassifying a Multi-Purpose aircraft carrier on 30 June 1975. She will under go her 30th 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 36th 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; redesignated CVA-41 on 1 October 1952. She will under go her 46th 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 & USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1980).
USS Midway (CV-41) with CVW-5 (NF) (14 July to 26 November 1980)
“USS Parsons (DDG-33); USS Leahy (CG-16); USS Cochrane (DDG-21); USS Jesse L. Broivn (FF-1098); USS Robert E. Peary (FF-1073); USS Kirk (FF-1087) and USS Francis Hammond (FF-1067) operated with USS Midway (CV-41).
USS Midway (CV-41) conducted CVW-5 training off Okinawa from 14 to 18 July 1980.
USS Midway (CV-41) conducted MISSILEX/AAWEX off Okinawa on 17 July 1980 and CVW-5 aircraft services provided for PHIBLEX from 17 to 18 July 1980.
USS Midway (CV-41) conducted operations/transit to Subic from 14 to 21 July 1980, developed engineering problems and departed the area for Subic the evening of 21 July 1980, arriving for a port of call at Subic Bay, R.P. before mid night.
RADM Felt (COMNAVFORJAPAN) and RADM Hunter (COMMATVAQPAC) visited USS Midway (CV-41) and were met by the CO and XO on 23 July 1980. After a meeting of the Squadron CO's, a tour of the ship •was given by the CO and XO. The movie "Sea Legs" was shown in the Wardroom. Lunch was also served in the Ward room with several squadron personnel present.
USS Midway (CV-41) made a port of call at Subic Bay, R.P. from 21 to 28 July 1980, correcting engineering repairs, remained in-port Subic until morning of 28 July.
During the evening of a Palawan Passage on 29 July 1980, USS Midway (CV-41) collided with a Panamanian registered Merchant Vessel (M/V) "Cactus". Midway suffered severe damage to her port side, six air craft were almost totally destroyed and, more tragically, two Midway sailors lost their lives in our port 02N2 Plant that was destroyed” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1980).
On 29 July 1980, USS Midway (CV-41) collides with the Panamian freighter CACTUS while transiting the passage between Palawan Island and the coast of Northern Borneo 450 nautical miles off Subic Bay en route to Singapore in the Palawan Straits near the Philippines. NS0241aaa 89k. Chuck Cavanaugh, via Troy Prince, MidwaySailor.com. http://www.navsource.org/archives/02/0241aaa.jpg
At 0720 CDT on 29 July 1980 USS Midway (CV-41) collided with the 450-foot Panamanian freighter Cactus while transiting between the Palawan Island and North Borneo, 450 miles southwest of the U.S. naval base at Subic Bay, the Philippines. There was no significant damage to the carrier (catwalks and deck supports on the port side were damaged, an elevator jammed and three holes were punched in the ship's hull plates) but several parked F-4J and RF-4B Phantom II aircraft on the flight deck were damaged. Two sailors were killed and three injured onboard Midway. U.S. Navy photo taken on 31 July 1980. NS0241aa 169k. DefenseImagery.mil (#DN-SN-84-03467). http://www.navsource.org/archives/02/0241aa.jpg
“USS Midway (CV-41) collides with the Panamian freighter CACTUS while transiting the passage between Palawan Straits near the Palawan Island and the coast of Northern Borneo 450 nautical miles off Subic Bay en route to Singapore during the evening on 29 July 1980. The Midway, the Navy says, sustained no serious damage although two US sailors were killed, three were injured, and three F-4 Phantom aircraft parked on the flight deck were damaged” (Ref. 84A).
“USS Midway (CV-41) suffered severe damage to her port side, six air craft were almost totally destroyed and, more tragically, two Midway sailors lost their lives in the port 02N2 Plant that was destroyed. Midway arrived back in Subic 31 July and a monumental effort began to repair the ship. By 14 August the ship was ready for sea. The efforts of those involved can be best summed up by a message from COMSEVENTHFLT: QUOTE.
USS Midway (CV-41) made a port of call at Subic Bay, R.P. from 31 July to 15 August 1980, concluded Collision in Palawan Passage with M/V CACTUS repairs Ready for Sea; major repairs complete on 14 August 1980.
Commencing with the unfortunate collision of Midway (CV-41) and the MV Cactus the night of 29 July 1980 and culminating with an underway report on 15 August 1980 the past 17 days have brought hundreds of people together as a united team to put USS Midway back in operation from the personnel on the scene to eventual tasking of units over twelve thousand miles away in Eastern U.S. This highly responsive team set about to analyze, identify and direct timely actions which ultimately met the initial forecast for completion.
To those innumerable people who are behind the long list of addees, I convey a deep sense of appreciation for your individual efforts, interrupted routine and extended working hours, you can take great pride in the fact that you have had a direct part in returning a highly valued national asset to a fully operational status. To each of you and the commands you so faithfully support -- well done. VADM C. A. H. Trost, USN. UNQUOTE” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1980).
“USS Constellation (CV-64) on station in the Indian Ocean contingency was relieved by the USS Midway (CVW-41) on 17 August 1980, beginning another Indian Ocean deployment for the Midway, alongside the task group of USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) still on contingency duty in the Arabian Sea. Midway spent a total of 118 days in the Indian Ocean during 1980” (Ref. 1-Constellation & Midway).
“USS Midway (CV-41) passed abeam Singapore 18 August 1980 and rendezvoused in the Northern Malaccan Strait with USS Constellation (CV-64) for turnover. Midway then turned Southwest towards Diego Garcia. The British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) is an archipelago of 55 islands in the Indian Ocean South of India, it is situated approximately halfway between Africa and Indonesia. The islands form a semicircular group with an open sea towards the east. The largest, Diego Garcia, is located at the southern extreme end” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1980). https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geography_of_the_British_Indian_Ocean_Territory
“USS Constellation (CV-64) turned over duties to USS Midway (CV-41) on 19 August 1980.
CDR C. S. Mitchell assumed command of VA-56 from CDR L. Bryant on 22 August 1980.
Crossing the line ceremony en route Diego Garcia on 22 August 1980, the day in which USS Midway (CV-41) entered the realm of King Neptune and more than a thousand SLIMY WOGS were indoctrinated and became trusty SHELLBACKS.
USS Midway (CV-41) conducted Transit to Diego Garcia from 15 to 23 August 1980.
USS Midway (CV-41) conducted OPS VIC Diego Garcia from 23 to 26 August 1980.
USS Midway (CV-41) conducted Transit to MODLOC from 26 to 31 August 1980.
USS Midway (CV-41) continued to the SW and arrived on Gonzo Station on 31 August 1980 from where she had departed 3 February (1st Northern Arabian Sea), Midway relieved USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) on MODLOC.
CVW-5 aircraft intercepted/escorted two IL-38 aircraft on 1 September 1980.
CVW-5 aircraft intercepted/escorted two IL-38 aircraft on 8 September 1980.
CVW-5 aircraft intercepted/escorted two IL-38 aircraft on 11 September 1980.
USS Midway (CV-41) conducted Exercise Gonzo 80-5 on Gonzo Station in the Northern Arabian Sea on 16 September 1980.
USS Midway (CV-41) spent 16 days on Gonzo Station Northern Arabian Sea commencing on 31 August 1980, intercepting/escorting Soviet surveillance aircraft and conducting training exercises Gonzo Station from 31 August 1980, conducting MODLOC OPS from 1 to 17 September 1980. As USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) returned to Gonzo Station, Midway participated in a major CV-to-CV (N) exercise with IKE-GONZOEX 80-5. Midway then departed station en route to Mombasa, Kenya for a port visit.
CVW-5 aircraft conducted an Air demonstration on 19 September 1980.
USS Midway (CV-41) pulled in for a port of call at Mombasa, Kenya on 22 September 1980, on the eve of the Iran/Iraq war; Transit to Mombasa from 17 to 22 September 1980.
USS Midway (CV-41) departed Mombasa, Kenya on 28 September 1980, inport from 22 to 27 September 1980, Had a pleasant stay in Mombasa although aware of the turmoil in the Persian Gulf between IRAN and IRAQ.
USS Midway (CV-41) conducted Transit to MODLOC from 27 September to 2 October 1980.
USS Midway (CV-41) conducted MODLOC OPS from 2 October to 6 November 1980” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1980).
“USS Midway (CV-41) returned to the Gonzo Station Northern Arabian Sea by 2 October 1980. An A-6E is lost at night during approach after an engine failure and the subsequent single engine recovery attempt aboard USS Midway (CV-41) in the Northern Arabian Sea on 2 October 1980. Both crewmembers were recovered safely” (Ref. 84A – EQNEEDF Note: 84A states Indian Ocean (Not Correct).
“CVW-5 aircraft intercepted/escorted two IL-38 aircraft on 4 October 1980.
On 17 October 1980, RADM LeJeune, French I. O. Naval Commander, visited USS Midway (CV-41) and RADM Kirksey. He toured the ship and had lunch with staff officers.
Two Congressional Staff personnel visited USS Midway (CV-41) on 18 and 19 October 1980 and received several briefings. The visitors were Mr. Van der Schaaf and Mr. Murphy. British and French Naval Forces were ordered to the Northern Arabian Sea in October in response to the IRAN/IRAQ War as well. Since USS Midway (CV-41) was RADM Kirksey’s flagship, numerous visits were arranged that included the British Naval Commander as well as the French I. 0. Naval Commander.
On 20 October 1980 marked the CVW-5 change of command when CAPT Steve Briggs (1 January 1980 to 21 October 1980) was relieved by CDR Roger P. Flower. Shortly thereafter, on 22 October, CDR R. Rackowitz relieved CDR G. Mitchell, as Commanding Officer of VA-93.
The end of October saw two important visits. General David C. Jones, USAF, Chairman, JCS came aboard via helo while Midway was in the Northern Arabian Sea on 30 October 1980. The General reviewed Midway Marine Detachment's Honor Guard and then visited with RADM Kirksey, COMCARGRU 5, and the Commanding Officer. The General also observed flight operations from the Flag Bridge before departing. Eleven Royal Navy and one Royal Air Force Officer visited Midway for a familiarization visit and operations brief as part of an exchange of officers between Midway, HMS Antrim and HMS Naiad on 31 October 1980. The British officers toured the ship, saw "Sea Legs" and then viewed flight operations. The end of October marked the beginning of the formal TFCC EDM testing by COMOPTEVFOR representatives aboard Midway. The test involved both ship's company and staff personnel.
On 1 November 1980, another CVW-5 change of command took place: CDR J. Favaro relieved CDR R. Franz as CO, VA-115” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1980).
“On 4 November 1980, the first of three VA-56 A7 aircraft that were lost in the remainder of 1980 was lost. This first loss was tragic in that the pilot was also killed: LCDR Henry Myers” (Ref. 84A – EQNEEDF Note: 84A states Indian Ocean (Not Correct)” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1980).
“On 6 November 1980, USS Midway (CV-41) last day on Gonzo Station in the Northern Arabian Sea as well as the completion of the TFCC OPEVAL. Midway turned over with USS Ranger (CV-61) on 7 November 1980 and continued an outchop transit of the Indian Ocean.
USMC 205th Birthday celebration on 10 November 1980.
USS Midway (CV-41) completed the “Great Transit Relay” flight deck marathon on 12 November 1980.
USS Midway (CV-41) passed abeam Singapore 13 November 1980.
CVW-5 suffered the loss of VA-56 A7E, pilot recovered on 14 November 1980.
On 14 November 1980 during flight operations in the South China Sea, the second VA-56 A7E was lost, the pilot was recovered.
USS Midway (CV-41) pulled in for a port of call at Subic Bay, R.P. on 16 November 1980, conducting Transit MODLOC to Subic from 6 to 16 November 1980 and began final preparations for an Operational Propulsion Plant Recertification Exam (OPPRE) Inspection to be held en route Yokosuka.
USS Midway (CV-41) departed Subic Bay, R.P. on 21 November 1980, inport preparing for an Operational Propulsion Plant Recertification Exam (OPPRE) Inspection to be held en route Yokosuka from 16 to 21 November 1980.
USS Midway (CV-41) commenced Operational Propulsion Plant Recertification Exam (OPPRE) Inspection on 24 November 1980.
Midway (CV-41) conducted Transit Subic to Yokosuka from 21 to 26 November 1980” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1980).
“On 26 November 1980, USS Midway (CV-41) with RADM R. E. Kirksey, COMCARGRU THREE, serving as Commander, Carrier Strike Force Seventh Fleet (CTF-77), Commander, Task Group, CTG-77.4 in the Western Pacific Region since 11 April 1979, and multi-hatted as Commander, Carrier Group FIVE, CCG-5, (COMCARGRU FIVE) and Commander Task Force 70 (CTF-70), the latter task force also being known as Battle Force 7th Fleet and Surface Combatant Force Seventh Fleet (CTF-75) on 11 August 1979 assigned, embarking on 12 July 1980 and CDR Roger P. Flower, relieving CAPT Steve Briggs (1 January 1980 to 21 October 1980), as Commander, Carrier Air Wing Five (CVW-5) embarked arrived Yokosuka, Japan (NAF Atsugi, Japan), with Captain "E" I. Carmichael, as Commanding Officer, CCG-5 disembarks, on her 28th deployment, as the U. S. Navy’s forward-deployed carrier operating with the 7th Fleet, in the Western Pacific Region, conducting Operations in the Pacific Ocean, participating in MISSILEX/AAWEX off Okinawa and CVW-5 aircraft services provided for PHIBLEX, ending her 17th “WestPac”, on her 27th South China Sea, rendezvoused in the Northern Malaccan Strait with USS Constellation (CV-64) for turnover, making a Transit Southwest towards Diego Garcia, an archipelago of 55 islands in the Indian Ocean South of India, British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT), her seventh Indian Ocean, were she relieved USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) on Gonzo Station on 31 August 1980 from where she had departed 3 February, on her fourth Arabian Sea, on her second Northern Arabian Sea, for operations in the Gonzo Station and when USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) returned to Gonzo Station, participated in a major CV-to-CV (N) exercise with IKE-Exercise Gonzo 80-5 on Gonzo Station Northern Arabian Sea, on her second time while on deployment and en route Yokosuka, underwent Operational Propulsion Plant Recertification Exam (OPPRE). Ports of call included: Subic Bay, R.P.; Mombasa, Kenya and Subic Bay, R.P. Squadrons: VF-161, F-4S; VMFP-3 Det., RF-4B; VF-151, F-4S; VA-93, A-7E; VA-56, A-7E; VA-115, A6-E/KA-6D / *A-6E TRAM/KA-6D; VAW-115, E-2B; VAQ-136, EA-6B and HC-1 Det. 2, SH-3G. *AN/AAS-33 TRAM (Target Recognition and Attack, Multi-Sensor system. USS Parsons (DDG-33); USS Leahy (CG-16); USS Cochrane (DDG-21); USS Jesse L. Broivn (FF-1098); USS Robert E. Peary (FF-1073); USS Kirk (FF-1087) and USS Francis Hammond (FF-1067) operated with Midway; redesignated CV-41, reclassifying a Multi-Purpose aircraft carrier on 30 June 1975. Her 30th 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. Her 36th 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; redesignated CVA-41 on 1 October 1952. Her 46th 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 (14 July to 26 November 1980)” (Ref. 1-Midway, 72, 84A – EQNEEDF Note: 84A states Indian Ocean (Not Correct) & USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1980). https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geography_of_the_British_Indian_Ocean_Territory
14/07/80 to 26/11/80
USS Midway (CV-41) 28th deployment, as the U. S. Navy’s forward-deployed carrier operating with the 7th Fleet, in the Western Pacific Region, conducting Operations in the Pacific Ocean, on her 27th South China Sea, to rendezvous in the Northern Malaccan Strait with USS Constellation (CV-64) for turnover, making a Transit Southwest towards Diego Garcia, an archipelago of 55 islands in the Indian Ocean South of India, British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT), her seventh Indian Ocean, her fourth Arabian Sea, on her second Northern Arabian Sea Summary (14 July to 26 November 1980) – Chapter, Appendix I.
“USS Midway (CV-41) conducted Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan (NAF Atsugi, Japan) from 26 November to 16 December 1980” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1980).
USS Midway (CV-41) 28th deployment, as the U. S. Navy’s forward-deployed carrier operating with the 7th Fleet, in the Western Pacific Region, conducting Operations in the Pacific Ocean, on her 27th South China Sea, to rendezvous in the Northern Malaccan Strait with USS Constellation (CV-64) for turnover, making a Transit Southwest towards Diego Garcia, an archipelago of 55 islands in the Indian Ocean South of India, British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT), her seventh Indian Ocean, her fourth Arabian Sea, on her second Northern Arabian Sea Summary (14 July to 26 November 1980). CHAPTER LXVII Appendix I
“On 26 November 1980, USS Midway (CV-41) with RADM R. E. Kirksey, COMCARGRU THREE, serving as Commander, Carrier Strike Force Seventh Fleet (CTF-77), Commander, Task Group, CTG-77.4 in the Western Pacific Region since 11 April 1979, and multi-hatted as Commander, Carrier Group FIVE, CCG-5, (COMCARGRU FIVE) and Commander Task Force 70 (CTF-70), the latter task force also being known as Battle Force 7th Fleet and Surface Combatant Force Seventh Fleet (CTF-75) on 11 August 1979 assigned, embarking on 12 July 1980 and CDR Roger P. Flower, relieving CAPT Steve Briggs (1 January 1980 to 21 October 1980), as Commander, Carrier Air Wing Five (CVW-5) embarked arrived Yokosuka, Japan (NAF Atsugi, Japan), with Captain "E" I. Carmichael, as Commanding Officer, disembarking CCG-5, on her 28h deployment, as the U. S. Navy’s forward-deployed carrier operating with the 7th Fleet, in the Western Pacific Region, in the Pacific Ocean, for MISSILEX/AAWEX off Okinawa and CVW-5 aircraft services provided for PHIBLEX, ending her 17th “WestPac”, on her 27th South China Sea, rendezvoused in the Northern Malaccan Strait with USS Constellation (CV-64) for turnover, making a Transit Southwest towards Diego Garcia, an archipelago of 55 islands in the Indian Ocean South of India, British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT), her seventh Indian Ocean, were she relieved USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) on Gonzo Station on 31 August 1980 from where she had departed 3 February (1st Northern Arabian Sea), on her fourth Arabian Sea, on her second Northern Arabian Sea, for operations in the Gonzo Station and when USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) returned to Gonzo Station, participated in a major CV-to-CV (N) exercise with IKE-Exercise Gonzo 80-5 on Gonzo Station Northern Arabian Sea, on her second time while on deployment and en route Yokosuka, underwent Operational Propulsion Plant Recertification Exam (OPPRE). USS Parsons (DDG-33); USS Leahy (CG-16); USS Cochrane (DDG-21); USS Jesse L. Broivn (FF-1098); USS Robert E. Peary (FF-1073); USS Kirk (FF-1087) and USS Francis Hammond (FF-1067) operated with Midway, conducting CVW-5 training off Okinawa from 14 to 18 July 1980. Midway conducted MISSILEX/AAWEX off Okinawa on 17 July 1980 and CVW-5 aircraft services provided for PHIBLEX from 17 to 18 July 1980. Midway conducted operations/transit to Subic from 14 to 21 July 1980, developed engineering problems and departed the area for Subic the evening of 21 July 1980, arriving for a port of call at Subic Bay, R.P. before mid night. RADM Felt (COMNAVFORJAPAN) and RADM Hunter (COMMATVAQPAC) visited Midway and were met by the CO and XO on 23 July 1980. After a meeting of the Squadron CO's, a tour of the ship •was given by the CO and XO. The movie "Sea Legs" was shown in the Wardroom. Lunch was also served in the Ward room with several squadron personnel present. Midway made a port of call at Subic Bay, R.P. from 21 to 28 July 1980, correcting engineering repairs, remained in-port Subic until morning of 28 July. During the evening of a Palawan Passage on 29 July 1980, Midway collided with a Panamanian registered Merchant Vessel (M/V) "Cactus". Midway suffered severe damage to her port side, six air craft were almost totally destroyed and, more tragically, two Midway sailors lost their lives in our port 02N2 Plant that was destroyed. Midway arrived back in Subic 31 July and a monumental effort began to repair the ship. By 14 August the ship was ready for sea. The efforts of those involved can be best summed up by a message from COMSEVENTHFLT: QUOTE. USS Parsons (DDG-33); USS Leahy (CG-16); USS Cochrane (DDG-21); USS Jesse L. Broivn (FF-1098); USS Robert E. Peary (FF-1073); USS Kirk (FF-1087) and USS Francis Hammond (FF-1067) operated with Midway from 14 July to 26 November 1980. Midway collided with the 450-foot Panamanian freighter Cactus while transiting between the Palawan Island and North Borneo, 450 nautical miles southwest of the U.S. naval base at Subic Bay, the Philippines en route to Singapore in the Palawan Straits near the Philippines on 29 July 1980. The Midway, the Navy says, sustained no serious damage (catwalks and deck supports on the port side were damaged, an elevator jammed and three holes were punched in the ship's hull plates) although two US sailors were killed, three were injured, and three F-4 Phantom aircraft parked on the flight deck were damaged. The crew of an F-4J assigned to VF-151 loses control of their plane during a touch-and-go aboard the Midway and ejects between Philippines and Borneo on 5 August 1980. Both are recovered safely. pulled in for a port of call at Subic Bay, R.P. from 31 July to 15 August 1980, concluding Collision in Palawan Passage with M/V CACTUS repairs Ready for Sea; major repairs complete on 14 August 1980. Commencing with the unfortunate collision of Midway and the MV Cactus the night of 29 July 1980 and culminating with an underway report on 15 August 1980: QUOTE “The past 17 days have brought hundreds of people together as a united team to put USS Midway back in operation from the personnel on the scene to eventual tasking of units over twelve thousand miles away in Eastern U.S. This highly responsive team set about to analyze, identify and direct timely actions which ultimately met the initial forecast for completion. To those innumerable people who are behind the long list of addees, I convey a deep sense of appreciation for your individual efforts, interrupted routine and extended working hours, you can take great pride in the fact that you have had a direct part in returning a highly valued national asset to a fully operational status. To each of you and the commands you so faithfully support -- well done. VADM C. A. H. Trost, USN. UNQUOTE. USS Constellation (CV-64) on station in the Indian Ocean contingency was relieved by the Midway on 17 August 1980, beginning another Indian Ocean deployment for the Midway, alongside the task group of USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) still on contingency duty in the Arabian Sea. Midway spent a total of 118 days in the Indian Ocean during 1980. Midway passed abeam Singapore 18 August 1980 and rendezvoused in the Northern Malaccan Strait with USS Constellation (CV-64) for turnover. Midway then turned Southwest towards Diego Garcia. The British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) is an archipelago of 55 islands in the Indian Ocean South of India, it is situated approximately halfway between Africa and Indonesia. The islands form a semicircular group with an open sea towards the east. The largest, Diego Garcia, is located at the southern extreme end. CDR C. S. Mitchell assumed command of VA-56 from CDR L. Bryant on 22 August 1980. Midway conducted Transit to Diego Garcia from 15 to 23 August 1980. USS Constellation (CV-64) turned over duties to Midway on 19 August 1980. Crossing the line ceremony en route Diego Garcia on 22 August 1980, the day in which Midway entered the realm of King Neptune and more than a thousand SLIMY WOGS were indoctrinated and became trusty SHELLBACKS. Midway conducted OPS VIC Diego Garcia from 23 to 26 August 1980 and Transit to MODLOC from 26 to 31 August 1980, continued to the SW and arrived on Gonzo Station on 31 August 1980 from where she had departed 3 February. Midway relieved USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) on MODLOC. CVW-5 aircraft intercepted/escorted two IL-38 aircraft on 1 September 1980; two IL-38 aircraft on 8 September 1980; and two IL-38 aircraft on 11 September 1980. Midway conducted Exercise Gonzo 80-5 on Gonzo Station in the Northern Arabian Sea on 16 September 1980. Midway spent 16 days on Gonzo Station Northern Arabian Sea commencing on 31 August 1980, intercepting/ escorting Soviet surveillance aircraft and conducting training exercises Gonzo Station from 31 August 1980, conducting MODLOC OPS from 1 to 17 September 1980. As USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) returned to Gonzo Station, Midway participated in a major CV-to-CV (N) exercise with IKE-GONZOEX 80-5. Midway then departed station en route to Mombasa, Kenya for a port visit. CVW-5 aircraft conducted an Air demonstration on 19 September 1980, Transiting to Mombasa from 17 to 22 September 1980, Midway pulled in for a port of call at Mombasa, Kenya on 22 September 1980, on the eve of the Iran/Iraq war. Midway departed Mombasa, Kenya on 28 September 1980, inport from 22 to 27 September 1980, had a pleasant stay in Mombasa although aware of the turmoil in the Persian Gulf between IRAN and IRAQ. Midway conducted Transit to MODLOC from 27 September to 2 October 1980 and MODLOC OPS from 2 October to 6 November 1980. Midway returned to the Gonzo Station Northern Arabian Sea by 2 October 1980. An A-6E is lost at night during approach after an engine failure and the subsequent single engine recovery attempt aboard Midway in the Northern Arabian Sea on 2 October 1980. Both crewmembers were recovered safely. CVW-5 aircraft intercepted/escorted two IL-38 aircraft on 4 October 1980. On 17 October 1980, RADM LeJeune, French I. O. Naval Commander, ALINDIEN visited Midway and RADM Kirksey. He toured the ship and had lunch •with staff officers. Two Congressional Staff personnel visited Midway on 18 and 19 October 1980 and received several briefings. The visitors were Mr. Van der Schaaf and Mr. Murphy. British and French Naval Forces were ordered to the Northern Arabian Sea in October in response to the IRAN/IRAQ War as well. Since Midway was RADM Kirksey’s flagship, numerous visits were arranged that included the British Naval Commander as well as the French I. 0. Naval Commander. 20 October 1980 marked the CVW-5 change of command when CAPT Steve Briggs (1 January 1980 to 21 October 1980) was relieved by CDR Roger P. Flower. Shortly thereafter, on 22 October, CDR R. Rackowitz relieved CDR G. Mitchell, as Commanding Officer of VA-93. The end of October saw two important visits. General David C. Jones, USAF, Chairman, JCS came aboard via helo while Midway was in the Northern Arabian Sea on 30 October 1980. The General reviewed Midway Marine Detachment's Honor Guard and then visited with RADM Kirksey, COMCARGRU 5, and the Commanding Officer. The General also observed flight operations from the Flag Bridge before departing. Eleven Royal Navy and one Royal Air Force Officer visited Midway for a familiarization visit and operations brief as part of an exchange of officers between Midway, HMS Antrim and HMS Naiad on 31 October 1980. The British officers toured the ship, saw "Sea Legs" and then viewed flight operations. The end of October marked the beginning of the formal TFCC EDM testing by COMOPTEVFOR representatives aboard Midway. The test involved both ship's company and staff personnel. On 1 November 1980, another CVW-5 change of command took place: CDR J. Favaro relieved CDR R. Franz as CO, VA-115. On 4 November 1980, the first of three VA-56 A7 aircraft that were lost in the remainder of 1980 was lost. This first loss was tragic in that the pilot was also killed: LCDR Henry Myers. On 6 November 1980, Midway last day on Gonzo Station in the Northern Arabian Sea as well as the completion of the TFCC OPEVAL. Midway turned over with USS Ranger (CV-61) on 7 November 1980 and continued an outchop transit of the Indian Ocean. USMC 205th Birthday celebration on 10 November 1980. Midway completed the “Great Transit Relay” flight deck marathon on 12 November 1980. CVW-5 suffered the loss of VA-56 A7E, pilot recovered on 14 November 1980. Midway passed abeam Singapore 13 November 1980. On 14 November 1980 during flight operations in the South China Sea, the second VA-56 A7E was lost, the pilot was recovered. Midway pulled in for a port of call at Subic Bay, R.P. on 16 November 1980, conducting Transit MODLOC to Subic from 6 to 16 November 1980 and began final preparations for an Operational Propulsion Plant Recertification Exam (OPPRE) Inspection to be held en route Yokosuka; departing Subic Bay, R.P. on 21 November 1980, inport from 16 to 21 November 1980. Midway commenced Operational Propulsion Plant Recertification Exam (OPPRE) Inspection on 24 November 1980 and conducted Transit Subic to Yokosuka from 21 to 26 November 1980. Ports of call included: Subic Bay, R.P.; Mombasa, Kenya and Subic Bay, R.P. Squadrons: VF-161, F-4S; VMFP-3 Det., RF-4B; VF-151, F-4S; VA-93, A-7E; VA-56, A-7E; VA-115, A6-E/KA-6D / *A-6E TRAM/KA-6D; VAW-115, E-2B; VAQ-136, EA-6B and HC-1 Det. 2, SH-3G. *AN/AAS-33 TRAM (Target Recognition and Attack, Multi-Sensor system; redesignated CV-41, reclassifying a Multi-Purpose aircraft carrier on 30 June 1975. Her 31st 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. Her 37th 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; redesignated CVA-41 on 1 October 1952. Her 47th 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 (14 July to 26 November 1980)” (Ref. 1-Midway, 72, 84A – EQNEEDF Note: 84A states Indian Ocean (Not Correct) & USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1980). https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geography_of_the_British_Indian_Ocean_Territory
14/07/80 to 26/11/80
U. S. Navy’s forward-deployed carrier operating with the 7th Fleet, in the Western Pacific Region, operating just off Yokosuka (16 to 20 December 1980) conducted Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan (NAF Atsugi, Japan) (21 December 1980 to 4 January 1981); U. S. Navy’s forward-deployed carrier operating with the 7th Fleet, in the Western Pacific Region, in the Northern Japan/Okinawa Operations Area (5 to 12 January 1981); conducted Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan (NAF Atsugi, Japan) (13 January to 3 February 1981); Northern Japan/Okinawa Operations Area (4 to 13 February 1981) and conducted Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan (NAF Atsugi, Japan) (13 to 22 February 1981). (16 December 1980 to 22 February 1981). CHAPTER LXVIII
“USS Midway (CV-41) with RADM R. E. Kirksey, COMCARGRU THREE, serving as Commander, Carrier Strike Force Seventh Fleet (CTF-77), Commander, Task Group, CTG-77.4 in the Western Pacific Region since 11 April 1979, and multi-hatted as Commander, Carrier Group FIVE, CCG-5, (COMCARGRU FIVE) and Commander Task Force 70 (CTF-70), the latter task force also being known as Battle Force 7th Fleet and Surface Combatant Force Seventh Fleet (CTF-75) on 11 August 1979 assigned and CDR Roger P. Flower, Commander, Carrier Air Wing Five (CVW-5) embarked departed Yokosuka, Japan (NAF Atsugi, Japan) on 16 December 1980, with Captain "E" I. Carmichael, as Commanding Officer, as the U. S. Navy’s forward-deployed carrier operating with the 7th Fleet, in the Western Pacific Region, operating just off Yokosuka” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1980).
USS Midway (CV-41) with CVW-5 (NF) (16 to 20 December 1980)
“VADM C. A. H. Trost, COMSEVENTHFLT and four Japanese guests arrived USS Midway (CV-41) via helo and were met by the CO and XO on 17 December 1980. A showing of "Sea Legs" in the Captain's in-port cabin was followed by a tour of the ship, including many AIMD spaces. After lunch with the CO, the guests observed flight operations from the navigational bridge. The guests departed the ship via helo” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1980).
“The pilot of an A-7E assigned to VA-56 embarked aboard USS Midway (CV-41) operating off Ohshima Island, Japan on 17 December 1980, inadvertently shuts down the engine after a bolter. He ejects and is rescued” (Ref. 84A).
“The third VA-56 A7E was lost off a catapult shot onboard USS Midway (CV-41) on 19 December 1980; the pilot was recovered” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1980).
“On 20 December 1980, USS Midway (CV-41) with RADM R. E. Kirksey, COMCARGRU THREE, serving as Commander, Carrier Strike Force Seventh Fleet (CTF-77), Commander, Task Group, CTG-77.4 in the Western Pacific Region since 11 April 1979, and multi-hatted as Commander, Carrier Group FIVE, CCG-5, (COMCARGRU FIVE) and Commander Task Force 70 (CTF-70), the latter task force also being known as Battle Force 7th Fleet and Surface Combatant Force Seventh Fleet (CTF-75) on 11 August 1979 assigned and CDR Roger P. Flower, Commander, Carrier Air Wing Five (CVW-5) embarked returned to Yokosuka, Japan (NAF Atsugi, Japan), with Captain "E" I. Carmichael, as Commanding Officer, as the U. S. Navy’s forward-deployed carrier operating with the 7th Fleet, in the Western Pacific Region, operating just off Yokosuka, conducting operations in the NJ OPAREA from 16 to 20 December 1980. VADM C. A. H. Trost, COMSEVENTHFLT and four Japanese guests arrived Midway via helo and were met by the CO and XO on 17 December 1980. A showing of "Sea Legs" in the Captain's in-port cabin was followed by a tour of the ship, including many AIMD spaces. After lunch with the CO, the guests observed flight operations from the navigational bridge. The guests departed the ship via helo. The pilot of an A-7E assigned to VA-56 embarked aboard USS Midway (CV-41) operating off Ohshima Island, Japan on 17 December 1980, inadvertently shuts down the engine after a bolter. He ejects and is rescued. The third VA-56 A7E was lost off a catapult shot onboard Midway on 19 December 1980; the pilot was recovered. Squadrons: VF-161, F-4J --> F-4S; VF-151, F-4J --> F-4S; VA-93, A-7E; VA-56, A-7E; VA-115, A6-E/KA-6D / *A-6E TRAM/KA-6D; VAW-115, E-2B; VMFP-3 Det., RF-4B; VAQ-136, EA-6B and HC-1 Det. 2, SH-3G. *AN/AAS-33 TRAM (Target Recognition and Attack, Multi-Sensor system (16 to 20 December 1980)” (Ref. 84A & USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1980).
16/12/80 to 20/12/80
“RADM Masayuki Masutani, DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION, JMSDF Staff College visit USS Midway (CV-41) and 33 others from the JMSDF Staff College were hosted aboard on 22 December 1980. The film "Sea Legs" and refreshments were served also. A tour of the ship was given by CDR's Poole, Sullivan and Parks. Assistant Naval Attaché from the American Embassy, Tokyo and ten guests toured Midway, after viewing "Sea Legs" in Ready Room #5. Lunch was served in the Wardroom. FIFTEEN Japanese ladies, sponsored by Mrs. Carlsen, toured Midway and were escorted by the XO, CAPT Carlsen on 23 December 1980. "Sea Legs" was shown and refreshments were served in the Wardroom.
RADM Tsubura (Ret.), former N-2 DIV MSO JMSDF and guests toured USS Midway (CV-41). The group was sponsored by COMNAVFORJAPAN on 26 December 1980.
20 October 1980 marked the CVW-5 change of command when CAPT Steve Briggs (1 January 1980 to 21 October 1980) was relieved by CDR Roger P. Flower (21 October to 31 December 1980).
USS Midway (CV-41) was in-port Yokosuka from 20 to 31 December 1980, November and early December was spent getting the ship ready for a January 8th INSURV Inspection. Several Japanese VIP visits took place on 22, 23, and 26 December 1980 and our final event of the year was the VF-151 Change of Command on 30 December 1980. CDR R. S. Farrell relieved CDR G. M. Hughes as Commanding Officer” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1980).
“Beginning in late 1979, CTF 77 also focused on the carrier presence on Gonzo Station in the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Oman off of Iran following the Iranian Revolution and the subsequent Iran Hostage Crisis involving the detention of the American Embassy staff in Teheran from November 1979 to January 1981. With the release of the American hostages in 1981, carrier presence off Gonzo Station decreased and CTF 77/CCG 5/CTF 70 went back to its deterrence posture, primarily as it pertained to Soviet Navy operations in the Western Pacific. CTF 77/CCG 5/CTF 70 operated two and three Carrier Battle Groups from the North Arabian Sea to the North Sea of Japan and the North Pacific Ocean” (Ref. Task Force 77 (United States Navy). https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Task_Force_77_(United_States_Navy)
“USS Midway (CV-41) conducted Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan (NAF Atsugi, Japan) from 21 December 1980 to 4 January 1981.
USS Midway (CV-41) with RADM R. E. Kirksey, COMCARGRU THREE, serving as Commander, Task Group, CTG-77.4 in the Western Pacific Region from 11 April to 11 June 1979, and the Cruise Book Photos show his titles and narrative states RADM R. E. Kirksey assumed Commander, Battle Force Seventh Fleet in August 1979, yet Command History Report of 1979 states “As the in-port drew to a close, CCG 5, CTF SEVENTY, RADM Kirksey and his staff, embarked Midway on 12 July 1979, so on 11 June to 12 July 1980 RADM R. E. Kirksey becomes CCG 5/CTF 70 and becomes CTF-77 as well assigned and CDR Roger P. Flower, Commander, Carrier Air Wing Five (CVW-5) embarked departed Yokosuka, Japan (NAF Atsugi, Japan) on 5 January 1981, with Captain "E" I. Carmichael, as Commanding Officer, as the U. S. Navy’s forward-deployed carrier operating with the 7th Fleet, in the Western Pacific Region, in the Northern Japan/Okinawa Operations Area” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1981).
USS Midway (CV-41) with CVW-5 (NF) (5 to 12 January 1981)
“RADM O'Hara’s visits USS Midway (CV-41) on 10 January 1981 (Photo # 0041).
On 10 January 1981, an Inspection and Survey (INSURV) team arrived USS Midway (CV-41) to conduct an INSURV of Midway” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1981).
“On 12 January 1981, USS Midway (CV-41) with RADM R. E. Kirksey, COMCARGRU THREE, serving as Commander, Task Group, CTG-77.4 in the Western Pacific Region from 11 April to 11 June 1979, and the Cruise Book Photos show his titles and narrative states RADM R. E. Kirksey assumed Commander, Battle Force Seventh Fleet in August 1979, yet Command History Report of 1979 states “As the in-port drew to a close, CCG 5, CTF SEVENTY, RADM Kirksey and his staff, embarked Midway on 12 July 1979, so on 11 June to 12 July 1980 RADM R. E. Kirksey becomes CCG 5/CTF 70 and becomes CTF-77 as well assigned and CDR Roger P. Flower, Commander, Carrier Air Wing Five (CVW-5) embarked returned to Yokosuka, Japan (NAF Atsugi, Japan), with Captain "E" I. Carmichael, as Commanding Officer, as the U. S. Navy’s forward-deployed carrier operating with the 7th Fleet, in the Western Pacific Region, in the Northern Japan/Okinawa Operations Area from 5 to 12 January 1981. RADM O'Hara’s visits Midway on 10 January 1981 (Photo # 0041). On 10 January 1981, an Inspection and Survey (INSURV) team arrived Midway to conduct an INSURV of Midway. Squadrons: VF-161, F-4S; VF-151, F-4S; VA-93, A-7E; VA-56, A-7E; VA-115, A6-E/KA-6D / *A-6E TRAM/KA-6D; VAW-115, E-2B; VMFP-3 Det., RF-4B; VAQ-136, EA-6B and HC-1 Det. 2, SH-3G. *AN/AAS-33 TRAM (Target Recognition and Attack, Multi-Sensor system (5 to 12 January 1981)” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1981).
05/01/81 to 12/01/81
“On 15 January 1981, Inspection and Survey (INSURV) ended and USS Midway (CV-41) was found fit for further service.
Japanese VIP visit to USS Midway (CV-41) was hosted on 25 January 1981 (Photo #0063).
Director General of Japanese Customs visited USS Midway (CV-41) on 3 February 1981 (Photo #0060A & 0060B). USS Midway (CV-41) conducted Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan (NAF Atsugi, Japan) from 13 January to 3 February 1981” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1981).
“USS Midway (CV-41) with RADM R. E. Kirksey, COMCARGRU THREE, serving as Commander, Task Group, CTG-77.4 in the Western Pacific Region from 11 April to 11 June 1979, and the Cruise Book Photos show his titles and narrative states RADM R. E. Kirksey assumed Commander, Battle Force Seventh Fleet in August 1979, yet Command History Report of 1979 states “As the in-port drew to a close, CCG 5, CTF SEVENTY, RADM Kirksey and his staff, embarked Midway on 12 July 1979, so on 11 June to 12 July 1980 RADM R. E. Kirksey becomes CCG 5/CTF 70 and becomes CTF-77 as well assigned and CDR Roger P. Flower, Commander, Carrier Air Wing Five (CVW-5) embarked departed Yokosuka, Japan (NAF Atsugi, Japan) on 4 February 1981, with Captain "E" I. Carmichael, as Commanding Officer, as the U. S. Navy’s forward-deployed carrier operating with the 7th Fleet, in the Western Pacific Region, for operations in the Northern Japan/Okinawa Operations Area” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1981).
USS Midway (CV-41) with CVW-5 (NF) (4 to 13 February 1981)
“CVW-5 aircraft intercepted two Soviet TU-95 BEAR aircraft on 6 February 1981.
Japanese Senior Officers’ visited USS Midway (CV-41) on 18 February 1981 (Photo #0206)” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1981).
“On 13 February 1981, USS Midway (CV-41) with RADM R. E. Kirksey, COMCARGRU THREE, serving as Commander, Task Group, CTG-77.4 in the Western Pacific Region from 11 April to 11 June 1979, and the Cruise Book Photos show his titles and narrative states RADM R. E. Kirksey assumed Commander, Battle Force Seventh Fleet in August 1979, yet Command History Report of 1979 states “As the in-port drew to a close, CCG 5, CTF SEVENTY, RADM Kirksey and his staff, embarked Midway on 12 July 1979, so on 11 June to 12 July 1980 RADM R. E. Kirksey becomes CCG 5/CTF 70 and becomes CTF-77 as well assigned and CDR Roger P. Flower, Commander, Carrier Air Wing Five (CVW-5) embarked returned to Yokosuka, Japan (NAF Atsugi, Japan), with Captain "E" I. Carmichael, as Commanding Officer, as the U. S. Navy’s forward-deployed carrier operating with the 7th Fleet, in the Western Pacific Region, for operations in the Northern Japan/Okinawa Operations Area from 4 to 12 February 1981. CVW-5 aircraft intercepted two Soviet TU-95 BEAR aircraft on 6 February 1981. Japanese Senior Officers’ visited Midway on 18 February 1981 (Photo #0206). CVW-5 aircraft intercepted two Soviet TU-95 BEAR aircraft on 6 February 1981. Squadrons: VF-161, F-4S; VF-151, F-4S; VA-93, A-7E; VA-56, A-7E; VA-115, A6-E/KA-6D / *A-6E TRAM/KA-6D; VAW-115, E-2B; VMFP-3 Det., RF-4B; VAQ-136, EA-6B and HC-1 Det. 2, SH-3G. *AN/AAS-33 TRAM (Target Recognition and Attack, Multi-Sensor system (4 to 13 February 1981)” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1981).
16/12/80 to 13/02/81
“USS Midway (CV-41) conducted Change-of-Command ceremony was held aboard. Captain R. S. Owens assumed command from Captain "E" I. Carmichael on 16 February 1981. Captain E. I. Carmichael, USN, ----/1310; Commanding Officer from 1 January 1981 to 16 February 1981.
USS Midway (CV-41) conducted Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan (NAF Atsugi, Japan) from 13 to 22 February 1981” (Ref. USS MIDWAY Command History for Calendar Year 1981).
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