Twenty-four Essex-class aircraft carriers were built for the U.S. Navy during World War II, and only two did not continue their service during the Cold War. One of those was the USS Franklin (CV-13).

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – March 19th marks 80 years since the bombing of the USS Franklin off the coast of Japan during World War II. Veterans of the USS Franklin and their families will gather on its ...

Summary: The USS Franklin (CV-13), part of the prolific Essex-class aircraft carriers, played a pivotal role in World War II’s Pacific Theater with one mission: create havoc for Japan. Commissioned ...