The USS Lexington: A Carrier with a Wooden Flight Deck

The USS Lexington CV-2, an aircraft carrier commissioned in 1927, had a deck made of wood, specifically Douglas fir. This unique feature was common among aircraft carriers of that era and played a crucial role in its operations during World War II. Understanding the history and impact of the wooden deck provides insights into early naval aviation and the evolution of carrier design.

The History of the USS Lexington

The USS Lexington was built during a period of naval expansion in the United States. Commissioned in 1927, it served as an important tool for establishing America's presence in the Pacific. Its wooden flight deck was a significant factor in its design and operational capability.

The Use of Douglas Fir

The wooden deck of the USS Lexington was constructed using Douglas fir, a type of wood that was known for its durability and ease of repair. This choice of wood was not without strategic considerations. At the time, wooden decks were seen as more advantageous due to their repairability and the relative ease of maintaining them during operations.

Operational Impact of the Wooden Deck

The wooden flight deck of the USS Lexington served as an essential surface for launching and recovering aircraft. During its service in World War II, the deck proved to be a reliable and effective platform for various operations. Navy pilots who fought in both World War II and the Korean War described the wooden deck's advantages and challenges.

Challenges and Advantages

According to a Navy pilot, during World War II, aircraft were typically parked at the rear of the carrier deck because propeller-driven planes required full-power deck runs to take off, and catapult shots were rare. The use of a wooden deck during this period was partly due to its ease of repairability, which was crucial in the fast-paced and often dangerous environment of naval combat. Metal repairs required significant resources, manpower, and time, making a wooden deck a more practical and less costly option in emergencies.

The End of an Era

Despite its effectiveness, the use of wooden decks in carriers was gradually phased out. By the time the USS Lexington was sunk in the Battle of the Coral Sea in May 1942, the military had already begun transitioning to armored or steel decks due to their greater durability and enhanced safety measures. The transition to reinforced decks marked an important shift in carrier design and functionality, reflecting the rapid advancements in naval technology.

Conclusion

The USS Lexington's wooden flight deck is a testament to the ingenuity and practicality of early naval aviation. Its design provided a suitable and functional platform for launching and recovering aircraft during a critical period of American naval history. As technology advanced, carriers transitioned to more durable and safer alternatives, but the legacy of the wooden flight deck remains a fascinating aspect of naval lore.