CORONADO, Calif. – As the U.S. Navy marks the 83rd anniversary of the Battle of Midway, Naval Aviation leaders honor the courage, innovation, and decisive action that turned the tide of World War II in the Pacific and reaffirm the enduring importance of U.S. Navy aircraft carriers.
This year's commemoration is especially meaningful as it coincides with the 250th anniversary of America's Navy a legacy built on valor, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to securing the seas.
Vice Adm. Daniel Cheever, Commander, Naval Air Forces, called the victory at Midway “a defining moment in naval history and the definitive carrier battle.”
The Battle of Midway, fought from June 3 to June 7, 1942, is widely regarded as a pivotal turning point in the Pacific Theater. Outnumbered and outgunned, U.S. Navy and U. S. Marine Corps forces relied on intelligence breakthroughs, bold tactics, and carrier-based aviation to sink four Japanese aircraft carriers and halt Japan’s expansion in the Pacific.
One remarkable example was the USS Yorktown, which had been heavily damaged at the Battle of the Coral Sea. Though initial repair estimates were long, the ship was restored in just days to participate at Midway. Despite eventually being lost during the battle, Yorktown inflicted significant damage on the enemy fleet.
The courage of the aviators was profound. Torpedo Squadron Eight, for instance, launched high-risk attacks that resulted in severe losses, with only one survivor, Ensign George Gay, who witnessed the remainder of the battle from his raft. The sacrifices of Marine Corps aviators, who lost 17 of 26 aircraft, were instrumental in protecting Midway and clearing the way for dauntless dive bombers to strike decisive blows, sinking three carriers and a heavy cruiser, and damaging many others.
“At Midway, it was our carrier's intelligence, the Sailors, marines and aviators who operated them that made the difference,” said Cheever. “The next aircraft carrier and strike group battle will be an all domain, long range battle, but the principles of superior intelligence, calculated risk taking and responsiveness will remain the same, and we will win.”
From the sacrifice of Sailors past to the skill and innovation of today’s naval aviators, Naval Aviation continues to adapt, deliver, and dominate preserving a 250-year legacy of excellence and ensuring America's Navy remains a global force for peace through strength.
Together, we serve, excel, and make a difference. FLY NAVY!
| Date Taken: | 06.06.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 06.06.2025 14:47 |
| Story ID: | 499880 |
| Location: | CORONADO, CALIFORNIA, US |
| Web Views: | 42 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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