USS Kitty Hawk Veteran Makes Call to Action!
By Kenneth Corn
From the time David Cook turned seven years old until he raised his right hand to
take the oath to defend his county, he knew he was destined to join the US Navy.
Cook can trace his family’s Navy service back four generations. His father finished
his Navy career in the same year Cook completed boot camp. You could say Cook
was born to be in the Navy.
Cook said his father ‘pulled a few strings with the Admiral’ to get him assigned to
Naval Air Station North Island in San Diego, California, where his father served.
When he arrived at his first command, Cook’s division officer said his father had
requested Cook for the next day and for him to wear his Service Dress Blue
uniform. Cook asked his father, “What’s going on?”
“He said, ‘I’m getting a Navy commendation medal and I want you standing ranks
with me.’ I thought that was pretty cool,” said Cook. “I got to have tea with the
Admiral.”
A picture of David Cook after Bootcamp. Cook said, “He knew he was destined to join the US Navy.”
Cook Steps Aboard the USS Kitty Hawk
Cook spent eighteen months at NAS North Island keeping Grumman C-1 Trader
aircraft in the air. On his second command assignment, Cook traded shore duty
(land-based duty) for sea duty. Sea duty meant that Cook would pack up his sea
bag and move on to a commissioned vessel.
Cook asked command, “what ship?” The answer was the USS Kitty Hawk.
“I was like ‘cool’,” said Cook. “I joined up in North Carolina, so I had a connection
with it.”
That connection inspired Cook to read up on the Kitty Hawk’s history. Cook found
another fact that made him feel a bond with the aircraft carrier.
“I was born in 1961. The ship was commissioned in March of 1961,” said Cook.
“So, I had a connection with that, being so close to my birthday. It was kind of a
spiritual thing between me and the ship.”
A picture of the Northrop Grumman E-2 Hawkeye from Cook’s collection of memorabilia from his Navy career.
New Command meant New Aircraft
Cook’s new command also meant a new aircraft for Cook to keep flying. He would use his mechanic skills on the Northrop Grumman E-2 Hawkeye, an all-weather, carrier-capable, tactical airborne early warning (AEW) aircraft.
“Our call sign was the Sun Kings,” said Cook. “Basically, it was what we call carrier airborne early warning squadron. Kind of like the Navy’s version of the Air Force’s AWACS. They actually called the Hawkeye the mother of the AWACS. We were the eyes and the ears of the fleet. We were always the first ones off the deck.”
An Encounter with a Russian Submarine
Cook’s bond with the USS Kitty Hawk grew stronger early one morning in
1984. After a training exercise with the South Koreans, the carrier continued
sailing through the Sea of Japan. Cook remembers that his squadron wasn’t flying
that night, but he was still at his post on the flight deck. Sometime near 0300
hours, Cook took a snack break that he would never forget.
“I went down to the berthing area and opened my coffin locker, grabbed a candy
bar, and about that time, it sounded like a bomb going off,” said Cook. “And I’m
like, oh my god, they have dropped a bomb on the flight deck.”
The Cold War between the former Soviet Union and the U.S. was in full swing.
Cook said the Kitty Hawk and the Russian submarine had been playing a game of
cat and mouse for weeks.
“Then I heard a scraping noise going down the side of the ship,” said Cook. “First, I
heard the bomb. Then, I heard the scraping noise, and I already knew we were
being followed or tracked by them. And I said, ‘I think we found her.”
Scared, but not surprised, Cook said these games between Russian and American
vessels were common during this period in American history. His own E-2
Hawkeye squadron took pictures of the Russian submarine very close to the
carrier’s battle group. Cook believes the Russian submarine had already crossed
the Kitty Hawk’s bow at least once before the collision.
“Hitting a nuclear submarine about where the reactor is, it’s a good thing that we
all didn’t get blown up,” said Cook. “It could have been bad.”
Cook saved a 1984 edition of Newsweek magazine containing this picture and a report of the collision with the Russian Submarine.
Reports of the collision appeared in world newspapers, magazines, and television.
As reported by Newsweek, both vessels escaped without serious damage. Cook
believes this footnote in the Cold War is just one piece of the carrier’s history that
should save the Kitty Hawk from the scrap yard.
A call to Action
“Even before they decommissioned her, I thought, I have to do something,” said Cook. “I would be devastated if they turned it into razor blades.”
The Navy’s last commissioned conventional-powered aircraft carrier operated for 48 years before it was decommissioned in 2009. The Kitty Hawk is also the last aircraft carrier that could be turned into a museum ship. According to the Navy, nuclear carriers require extensive disassembly to remove their nuclear reactors during decommissioning, leaving them in an unsuitable condition for donation.
BREMERTON, WA, UNITED STATES 03.09.2021 The Kitty Hawk was moved into Dry Dock 6 March 9th The Dry Docking will allow Marine growth to be removed from the hull in preparation for its departure and eventual dismantling. The Kitty Hawk was decommissioned in Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility in 2009 following 48 years of active service. The ship has been “Mothballed” at The Inactive Ships Maintenance Facility since then.(US NAVY) Photo by Wendy Hallmark)
Cook says the Kitty Hawk should be anchored in Wilmington, NC, next to the USS
North Carolina battleship. “It would be great for tourism in North Carolina, and it
would also develop a lot of jobs,” said Cook.
USS Kitty Hawk Veterans Association had the same idea but as a Long Beach,
California, museum. In a newspaper article dated March of 2017, the
Kitsap Sun of Bremerton, Washington, reported that the Association secured a
spot and was simply waiting for the Navy to put the Kitty Hawk in a donation
hold. At the time, the carrier sat at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and
Intermediate Maintenance Facility along with four other decommissioned aircraft
carriers.
“Even though I was in the aviation field, there’s something about being at sea that
becomes a part of you,” said Cook. “It’s an awesome ship.”
In October of 2021, the Kitsap Sun broke the news that the Navy sold two aircraft
carriers to the International Shipbreaking Limited, which is based in Brownsville,
Texas. One of them was the USS Kitty Hawk. Even with this bad news, Cook says
he will continue to write letters to his congressmen and senators to save the
Hawk.
“Myself as a Navy veteran and all the other people that spent time on it, that was
our safe place to be when we visited other countries,” said Cook. “It was our
home.”
I served only two years on the Kitty Hawk but it was by far the best two years of my Navy career. Me and my shipmates that are still my friends to this day talk about our time spent together onboard the Kitty Hawk. Turning her into a museum would be an awesome idea!!!
I served on her in 81 to 84. Great experience for me and others.
I support her becoming a museum, near kitty hawk NC would be nice.
Little know fact about her is she was slated to be the USS Constellation but a fire in the shipyard cause delay so kitty hawk took on the constellation s hull.
In fact, in the main engine room the name late had Constellation on it.
I serviced on the kitty hawk from 1/67 thru 1/70 three years was a great time in my life also know that the hull was not the kitty hawk hull
I was a young boy the Thrill of just being apart of some thing so much wondering of what is to be, that I felt back in 1969. Just every one working together on the Kitty. I hope they can save it.
I also served 0n the 1984 West Pac,aboard theKittyHawk, I was in the Hydraulic AIMD shop, I was in my rack at the port bow , the Russian sub hit the starboard bow, the ship moved like never before!! Please save my ship!!
I was one of the last 400 crew who ran her. Served 5 years on her.
Peter, I too served on the USS Kitty Hawk From 1967 through 1969. I was in VF213 but was assigned to ship’s company AIMD repairing tacans, radar altimeters and IFFs. Where did you work?
Hi John, My husband was on the Kitty Hawk 65-69, He was a Electrician working on the planes. He has told me some great stories about going up with the pilots. I know it’s a long shot for you to know him but his name was Ron Gross. He passed away last Feb from prostate cancer. I have a claim in for Agent Orange, have you had any health problems? He also was on the Ranger. He was 75 when he passed away, was a big personality was only 5ft 4” but was like 6ft 7” and was well liked throughout his life. Hope to hear from you!
Did u know boswinsmate David E Nevitt?
My brother served on the USS Kitty Hawk in 1979- 1983, he loved it, it was when they we’re trying to save the hostages in Iran. Unfortunately my brother passed away a year after he got out of the Navy. Please I am writing this for him, Please save the ship!!!
I knew this fact. I heard about it in the yards in 1983. June 1981 to march 1985. I was at Rome va. Seen this veteran wearing the cv63 hat. I stop to talk to him he was on there the same time as me. He was trying to get money for team spurt 84 and the sub accident. I could not get away from this man any faster
My dad was on the Kittyhawk during Vietnam..such a majestic creature,would love to see her before she’s gone
During Transit to My Ship,I Spent a Month on Her in November 1985,in The Indian Ocean,after leaving Diego Garcia via USS Mars,then USS Shasta,and then prior to an Unrep,To The Battle Cat USS Kitty Hawk!,I can Remember being so Awe Struck at Her Immense Size,as The USS Shasta Pulled along Side Her for Underway Replenisment!,I also Have The Awesome Memories of Watching F14 Tomcat’s Launching from The Flight Deck with Full Afterburners Lit,from My Perch on Vulcher’s Row above The Bridge,as The Kitty Hawk Knifed through The sheet of Glass that was the Indian Ocean on that Full Moon light Night!,Feeling The Heat from The Afterburners Blast You in The Face,even though being high above The Flight Deck!!!,I was onboard Her about a Year after Her Famous Collison with the Soviet Union’s Nuclear Attack Submarine,The Kitty Hawk Crew Actually had a Piece of The Commie Submarine from The Collison mounted on The Bulkhead in The Officers Wardroom!!!,They Should No Doubt,Save Her and Make Her into a Museum in North Carolina!!!,I Know that I Would Visit Her!!!
I served on the Kitty Hawk CV-63 from 1980-1982 I worked V-1 division in Fly-2 I was meritorious advanced to Petty Officer 3rd Class by Captain Foster Teague an awesome Captain! “He said that there may be other Carriers that are built better…but Kitty Hawk Has Heart and Soul and and Now you’re apart of that with your
hard work and dedication and Don’t you forget that Petty Officer Baugh!” So yes the Kitty Hawk is a big piece of my life! I Miss Her Greatly!
I also served under Capt. ‘Tooter’ Teague when he was the Carrier Air Group (CAG-11) commander on the Kitty Hawk prior to taking command of the ship. He was an awesome CAG commander, almost too tall to fit in the F-8 fighters. I was factory trained on the ‘new’ F-14 Tomcat avionics but never was assigned to an F-14 squadron. Later, as a reservist, I did my obligatory weekends and two weeks a year with the ‘RAG’ squadron out of Miramar and two weeks at Fallon, Nevada.
However, my active duty time with CAG-11 and ‘Tooter’ Teague on my last ‘West Pac’ is still very memorable, as was my previous last ‘West Pac’ on the Kitty Hawk.
My dad worked as a draftsman on the building of the Kitty Hawk and I was at the christening. I would hate to see all those memories scrapped. Send her back East.
I served on the kitty hawk 3 years.. 82 83 and 84..it was an amazing experience that I talk about constantly. I hope to be able to visit her one day!
I served on her from 1977-80 on WESPACs. During which we were assigned to the Persian gulf to rescue American hostages from Iran during that conflict and we were on the Hawk 89 days of rescue operations. The helicopter s for the mission were aboard the Kitty, in ’79-80.
i was on board the kitty from 1977 -1980 then on 87 bto 88 air wing blue diomands va 146 pr 3 dunlap
As an Airman (E3) I was in VA-22 onboard the Kitty for the West Pac 1981. My picture is in the Cruise Book. I think she went into dry dock after that cruise. Glenn Evans, AT-3
I served aboard the USS Ranger CV 61 from 1983 to 1986 then I served on the USS Kitty Hawk from 1986 to 1989 where I got out in Philadelphia Naval Shipyard I developed severe post-traumatic stress for being on the USS Ranger and all the fires and deaths that we had on board I lost some great friends along the way and had a friend that committed suicide in Puget Sound Naval Shipyard when the USS Ranger was going through overhaul he he jumped into the dry dock had many good times I bought these two aircraft calories but it came as a price
I was on her 1966_67 in VA-144 in Ready Room
I served on the USS Kitty Hawk 03’-07’ , my first home away from the Navajo reservation. Her old age showed how tough she was, proud to have been there. I really hope it turns to a museum, I want to see it again, with my family.
ABE3 Hatch
Simmons where were you I was in supply from 81 to 84 I flew on board in a ch 46 shot off in a c2. I watched them scraping her on before I realized a tear rolled down my check I saw the place where I did my first reenlistment
I served aboard USS Kittyhawk from June 1977 to May 1979, P3 division, number two auxiliary machinery room. I really don’t want to see your turn into razor blades. She was my home and I started my naval journey.
I hope they save her I was on the Kitty Hawk from 1973 -1976
May 1963 to Jan 1965 SAM division with Terrier Missiles. It was very pristine. Kennedy came aboard for a fire power demonstration a few months before his murder. We were in Westpac in November 63. I turned 21 2 days after leaving her in Bremerton. Awful for her to be scrapped.
My dad was on the kitty hawk when Kennedy borded her. He has fond memories of his time on the kitty hawk. So sad to see it being scraped.
I served from January 1977 to October 1979 I was ships company. I was in play/lens operation of landing lens to land aircraft, and recorded all take offs and landings. My first job was between catapults 1 and 2 to record aircraft taking off. The F-14 tomcats had a holdback retainer, they would go to full after burners with heat shield up then at same time hold back released then catapulted into air. It was quit a experience working flight deck. I made two west packs, and was on it when going back to Philippines when they had battle stations. Prepare for nuclear biological chemical warfare and this is not a drill. This was when they took over U.S embassy in Iran.
On KITTY HAWK 71-72 Gulf of Tonkin Vietnam, what a war machine,was CAT ONE petty officer,on one 23 day line period, we launched 2174 planes, had 17 unreps and it was balls to the walls action . incredible ship and CREW. Wear my KITTY HAWK gear with great pride. ABE2 MICHAEL GEARY
I was in repair division 1975 thru 1977. Great memories, letting the Hawk be melted into razor blades is wrong. She is a great part of US history
I too served on the Kittyhawk and did 3 Westpac tours before transferring to shore duty. I was on her from 1983- 87
I hope they can save USS Kitty Hawk
We are lucky to have Midway and Iowa on west coast.
I was also lucky to be on the Connie in Copenhagen DK and a bit of translation from Danish to English
I was at NAS North Island from 84-86. I was on the Marine Detachment aboard the USS Ranger and the USS Constellation (Connie). Walked bye the Kitty Hawk many times.
Francesstroud @comcast. Net
I served on the Kitty Hawk for 2 years during the Vietnam War. We did extensive bombing of North Vietnam. During my time on the Kitty Hawk we visited ports in Japan,Hawaii,and the Philippines. I would love to see it turned into a museum in Wilmington, NC. so I could take my children and grandchildren to see it.
I served on the Hawk during 911 from June 00 – June 02 out of Yokosuka. I was a Supply Corps LT, S1 Div. Great great times. Celebrated her 40th BD in Guam. Said goodbye to her at RIMPAC 08 in Hawaii. She deserves a better ending as the last oil burning Carrier. Her history was vast during her lifetime.
She’s in the scrapyard in Brownsville Texas, arrived the beginning of June 2022
I too served on the Kitty Hawk as a yard bird on one of her stops in San Diego for repairs. Worked on her boilers and various piping systems. Hanger bay and flight deck.
Kitty Hawk is already at the ship breakers in Brownsville, TX after 7 months of being towed there from Bremerton, WA.
It is now being scrapped this very moment.
Scrap it
Why the old lady deserves a birth .Don Abrams AME2 VA65
TIGERS 1968 to 1974 Semper Fortis CVA63
Later stationed at Cubi Pt AMD saw her many times tied up for liberty. I used to dive for rec near her when her crew was in town on Rizal and Magsaysay looking at the croc in front of Jolos.
San Miguel was ok at the time American beer tasted skunky.
I served on her from 1977-80 on WESPACs. During which we were assigned to the Persian gulf to rescue American hostages from Iran during that conflict and we were on the Hawk 89 days of rescue operations. The helicopter s for the mission were aboard the Kitty, in ’79-80. The Iranian crisis continued as we were relieved by the U.S.S. Constellation. This is only my experience on the Kitty Hawk. There are a lot of history, experience, and facts that are within her hull. American military treasure to be Lost forever. That’s only my experience with the Kitty Hawk! How many men have served and died on her. Their stories will die with her if she’s dismissed, dismantled and forgotten forever!🆘☮️💯🙏
Does anyone know the status/state of the ship as of 6/30?
There should be a fair amount of Asbestos abatement to complete.
Is it even possible to save her once at the scrappers?
One of the main issues of concern to the Navy regarding museum ships is the long term care and the possibility of having to deal with them years down the road. Aircraft Carriers are unique from their battleship/destroyer/submarine counterparts in that they are quite literally floating event venues. The long term sustainability possibilities are almost endless!
Aside from the sheer volume of history of the Kitty Hawk and fact that she is the LAST of her type, I personally would hate to see this piece of history go into that good night.
I also served on Kitty Hawk 11/73 an 7/76. I along with my friend Joe completed two wespac deployments we were onboard serving in HS-4 and again in HS-8. Russia had a spy fishing troller that was always on our port side shadowing our every move. We the squadron lost a shipmates which I will always remember.
The USS Kitty hawk and 7th fleet prevented a invasion of South Korea when I was on a West PAC and I feel like that should be a great reason for making her a historical ship that was in the late 70s
Thanks for that. You just denigrated 70% of the US population. As a retired Naval Engineer, my father and his father before him are all democrats. I just like them can’t understand how you condem over 1/2 the population. And this type of condemnation only comes from the Right side of the iel. And can forgive you for not being informed but I will not allow you to get away with calling my family communists! You sir ARE the very poison that will be the death of our democracy, shame on you and those that try to put your burden onto the shoulders of my good family. As I stated my father’s can be found in Arlington National Cemetery. Shame on you!! You bring no honor to our country.
I served on the Kitty Hawk from ’61 – 65. I was contributing to the museum fund and was very disappointed when the decision was made to scrap Her. We just returned from the KH reunion in San Diego. There seems to be a lot of support for saving Her.
How can we help?
Richard Berg
20741 Wagontire Way, Bend Oregon 97701
I was aboard the the Kitty Hawk from day one. What a magnificent ship! We sailed around the horn of South American. I started off as a Shell Back & became a Plank Owner. My buddies know what goes on when you Cross the Equator. I became a Plank Owner. Truthfully it broke my heart to know that my Beloved Kitty Hawk was going to be scrapped. I was an Electrician working in the engine room. My dream is for the Kitty Hawk to become a museum
Hi Richard, my grandfather was a Machinist’s first mate between those dates. Curious if you have any information or remember him. Trying to understand my families foggy history.
k.hennesseynguyen@gmail.com
I remember the incident of the USS Kitty Hawk and the Soviet Sub collision. At that time, I was stationed on the USS Long Beach (CGN-9) in the same battlegroup.
I was on the USS Hector (AR-7) same battle group Westpac 84. We went to GQ when the Kitty Hawk got hit by the Soviet sub and stayed in GQ into the next afternoon, what seemed like forever. No one knew what to expect next, question was accident or intentional act of agression and if another ship was next.
My grandfather was on the kittyhawk CDR Robert Saavedra got shot down and is now MIA in nam I hope they use the kittyhawk as a museum
It will be very good to save the kitty Hawk
I was on the 1984 cruise. I was an Aerographers mate. It was the 2 most memorable years of my life. Please save the Kitty Hawk!!!!
I was stationed on the kitty hawk when we took over forward deployment in Yokosuka Japan. We did the decomission and ceremony of the independence in Hawaii and received the don’t tread on me ensign… I still have pictures of that day. Turn the ship into a museum so thousands can take their families to this place and show them what they did while they were in the service it would be awesome day to see this happen!!
Short of her becoming a museum, I would pay a premium for Kitty Hawk razor blades. Think of the marketing possibilities: Kittyblades, keeping America free for a close shave!
My son served abroad the Kitty Hawk for 4 years as an air Dale tec. I have been abroad her several times too. She is a proud lady. I served aboard
The USS Bon Hom Richard CVA 31 FOR 18 months
And she still is at sea..something is wrong
With this pitcher
I served on-board Uss Kitty Hawk from 1984 – 1988. She was a great ship. And yes we did hit a Russian Sub in 1984 and yes the Kitty Hawk to the Uss Constellations hull do to fire on-board original Uss Kitty Hawk in ship building yard.
Uss Kitty Hawk deserves to be a museum not razor blades! I mean after All “Kitty Hawk” First Flight and all…
Spent 1975 to 1977 on the hawk in the medical department. First day in the Philippines was the Ali Frazier fight which I had seats on the 20th row. Best duty station I ever had.
My son serve on da kitty hawk during 2004 to 2008 in japan,now he been in da navy 18.6 years as E.8,now he back in japan serving has a S.O.Q.his name is Panfilo bascar da 3rd from maui hi,haiku 808.
I rode her from 63-68 S3 division 60 years later met up with 4 shipmates went up to Bremerton and we relived some good old memories
I served on the Kitty Hawk my whole tour, ending my tour in the hostage rescue operations on the Hawk, it was the last service to serve and protect the U.S.A., from harm to the American hostages held captive in Iran! The Hawk was ordered to cambat readiness for rescue operations of the hostages, Hercules helicopter s were onboard for the rescue of American civilian hostages! Off the Persian gulf, we patrolled for 90 days straight with no port a call. That’s why it’s important for the public to know the lady did the job! So it’s 😢 to throw away great Naval history and to the men and women that called it home, The U.S.S. Kitty Hawk one of the last carriers to serve and defend the United States from danger to the people! A.M.E. -2, served from 1976-80. Onboard with the Kitty Hawk, sir!
I served in 03-05 and met a fellow shipmate at the VA yesterday that served on the kitty hawk back in the 80s. Every day in the navy was hard. Every day in the navy was a privilege.
I think the USS Kitty Hawk CV-63 should be saved not only because she is the last conventional carrier, but because she is the only one left that was built with missles.
I served aboard her from 1964 to 1966.
A Kitty Hawk Museum.wpuld be a fabulous idea. Was my honor and pleasure to see her on the Delaware river after launch, and on transit to and from her SLEP up and down the Delaware. I could sit on my porch at the head of 30th St. In Wilmington, DE and see to the river.
What bird did he pilot when he was lost? I survived the flight deck and saw all a lot of functional ejection seats save lives. It’s good to know you didn’t FUBAR that last resort.
I too was born in 1961 and served on the Kitty Hawk form 1979 to 1983. Two years in AIMD Airframes and yes also served 2 years on the C-1A COD. What a coincidence. I went to the Kitty Hawk reunion in San Diego this month. Also went to the decommission ceremony in Bremerton. I love this boat and all the guys I became men with. Please save this treasure
I served on board KITTY HAWK CV 63 92-93. I came on board after a Stent on LIMDU TPU NAVSTA 32ND ST SD & BALBOA NAVHOSP. I got hooked on those blooming drugs. Anyway I really thought they should have allowed her to be towed to NC and turned in to a USS MIDWAY type museum.
I was stationed at NAS North Island 1984 – 1987. My squadron, VS-33 Screwbirds (S-3 Viking), was deployed aboard the Kitty Hawk, with CAG 9.
I would really like for the Kitty hawk to be saved,I served onboard her during Vietnam in 1972- 1974, it’s in the port of Brownsville, Texas now waiting to be scrapped, wish I could do something to save it
I was born and raised in North Carolina. The USS Kitty Hawk needs to be saved! There was someone who had raised enough $$ to buy it, but was refused by the govt. There HAS to be a way!
I served on her in 81 to 84. Great experience for me and others.
I support her becoming a museum, near kitty hawk NC would be nice.
Little know fact about her is she was slated to be the USS Constellation but a fire in the shipyard cause delay so kitty hawk took on the constellation s hull.
In fact, in the main engine room the name late had Constellation on it.
Com
.
Was on the Kitty hawk from 1965 to April of 1968
Yea my dad was on it from 1965-1969 during Vietnam he told a lot about it how big it was he has passed now but I know he would have wanted it saved also
My husband was on the Kitty Hawk those same years. He was an AirDale electrician working on the planes. He passed away last Feb from prostate cancer. Did your dad pass away from cancer? I have a claim in for Agent Orange, still waiting for an answer.
Yes it’s a shame, but your too late, they tried Pensacola, Wilmington, NC would of had to spend money on the river to make that happen, long beach, yeah they have to many and they can’t save everyone, man had some awesome times on that ship, can’t even talk about LMAO 🤣🤣 🤣🤣🤣
Kitty hawk was the connie and connie was kitty hawk. Investigate it. True story
I too served on the hawk 91-94 that was the greatest time of my life. The guys I served with were awesome. The places we saw were amazing and made me appreciate being an American even more. If I had to do it all over again I would do it in the blink of an eye. The Best part of WEST PAC was when my father got to board in Hawaii and rode it back to San Diego. He loved it. RIP CV-63.
Served in S7 on the Kitty Hawk from 80-82. Sad to know she is in the scrap yard now. Enjoyed my time aboard her
Long live the shitty Kitty EM 3 Ford Nucleus Fire Party
Boundary team leader.
1986-1990 world cruise.
I Spent my first 4years part on the Kitty Hawk company .I Started out when the Kitty Hawk was in SLEP in Philadelphia,pa . my time started with the Navy AND THE KITTY HAWK STARTED ON 9/14/1989 ON MY BIRTHDAY,WHICH STARTED MY MILITARY IN SEPT. OF 1989 , I HAVE TO SAY I GREW UP ON THE KITTY FROM THE KID I WAS TO THE MAN I AM TODAY I REALLY W ISH IF THERE IS ANYTHING TO SAVE HERE I WOULD LOVE TO DO . THERE WAS A KITTYHAWK COMPANY THAT WENT TO BASIC TRAINING ORLANDO FOR NAVY RECRUIT TRAINING CENTER ON 9/21/1989.
Kitty hawk was the connie and connie was kitty hawk. Investigate it. True story
I was on the Ranger behind the Kitty Hawk and Constellation at North Island and have told my wife that I hope someday I can take her for a tour of an aircraft carrier because they are magnificent floating cities. Making the USS Kity Hawk would be an awesome idea!
I served on her in 81 to 84. Great experience for me and others.
I support her becoming a museum, near kitty hawk NC would be nice.
Little know fact about her is she was slated to be the USS Constellation but a fire in the shipyard cause delay so Kitty Hawk took on the constellation s hull.
In fact, in the main engine room- the name plate had Constellation on it.
I had 2 deployments on Kitty Hawk, 63 & 65,my Squadron was VF-114 Aardvarks, F-4B . I learned a lot worked hard and had a good time. To bad she can’t be displayed somewhere.
I was in VF-114 from 62 to 64 also. I was an ADJ3 and worked on the line. What was your job in the squadron? I did love my time on the ship. My wife and I have toured the ship a couple of times when she was docked in San Diego. I also hoped they would have turned it into a museum.
I served aboard the USS Ranger CV 61 from 1983 to 1986 then I served on the USS Kitty Hawk from 1986 to 1989 where I got out in Philadelphia Naval Shipyard I developed severe post-traumatic stress for being on the USS Ranger and all the fires and deaths that we had on board I lost some great friends along the way and had a friend that committed suicide in Puget Sound Naval Shipyard when the USS Ranger was going through overhaul he he jumped into the dry dock had many good times I bought these two aircraft calories but it came as a price
I was on the Ranger for two years behind the Kitty Hawk and Constellation at North Island. I have told my wife several times that I hope someday I can take her for a tour of an aircraft carrier as they are like magnificent floating cities. Turning the Kitty Hawk into a museum would be awesome!
If they save the Kitty hawk they need to put the kitty hawk hual back on it. Tbe Constellation has the orginal kitty hawk haul and the kitty Hawk has the Constellation haul. Tha ks to a major fire when it was being built. I hate not havthem both saved. I served on the Constellation.
Can it be saved?
Sounds doubtful.
I was on board from ’61 – 65. Just returned from the KH reunion in SD..
CAN’T BELIEVE IT CAN’T BE SAVED!
Was a boatswain mate on the use Lexington now a museum in corpus christ same class carrier loved her it was great honor to serve on her
.
I served on the U.S S. Kitty Hawk from Aug. 1985 to 30 Sept 1989.
She was in the Philadelphia Naval Ship Yard when I retired. She was Annd still is a Great Ship. We all need to do something to save her from being scraped. Make her a Museum. People will pay to see the last Carrier of her class.
I hope someone can change someone”s mind and place the Kittyhawk as a museme much like other carriers have been. My father served in the Hawk when I was growing up went and saw it when it came in to be scraped. Safe the Kittyhawk
Crash and Salvage 72 – 74
I was on the Kitty Hawk 1973-1975 think about that big baby all the time
I PQS’d as EOOW on Kitty Hawk. The only enlisted EOOW at the time to serve on Kitty Hawk class. I hope she can be saved.
Save the Kitty Hawk
My only duty station was aboard This great ship from 1976-1980. V2 Division Catapult #2… This is where I became a man and made the best friends I’ve ever had in my life…still today we stay in touch and reminisce old times in the navy aboard the USS Kitty Hawk CV 63… If there’s anyway please save her she is such a symbol of fantastic greatness for so many men and women and for our great country… She served the United States of America to her upmost best…” Press on“
I was assigned to the battle cat. Old kitty hawk was a great ship. They should keep it.
Was on Connie. Should have saved her
Why would the USA scrap a carrier during a nuclear threat from so many countries right now. Are we getting stupid????? Look at the time it takes to build one verses sinking one. We need every resource we can get right now!
Absolutely agree kittyhaqk is a huge asset to our country
My grandfather was one of the builders of the USS Kitty hawk he was a first class Machinist , they should save the ship and turn it in to a museum
Hey Donald, my grandfather was also a first-class Machinist. His name is Richard Steve Hennessey. Curious if your grandfather is alive and has any information on him. I never was able to meet him, he passed in 75.
Save the kitty hawk it’s a honorable end for a great carrier with great history! From a non military man but proud ofy country and its service personnel!
My brother Joe served on board the Kitty Hawk, along with the Ranger and Independence.
How about donating the same to third world countries and operate the same as floating hospitals? Instead of scrapping, put it to a worthy use.
I served on the USS Kitty Hawk for 3 years. From 2003 to 2006. I was stationed in Yokosuka Japan. A lot of great memories being it was my first ship. Navy veteran here.
Instead of scrapping the Kitty Hawk why can’t it be parked at Port Isabel & turn it into a museum / tourist attraction? Such a shame to just destroy it.
I served on the kitty from 2006 till decommissioned. Out of all the commands I have been part of. She was my first and still my favorite to have been part of. I really wish she could be saved and anchored in NC where she belongs. I would love to visit and for the world to see the a part of American steam driven eight 1200 boilers. Last of it kind to be seen by everyone.
Yes save the Kitty Hawk. I served on the USS INDEPENDENCE CV62 when the the Kitty Hawk came to Philadelphia Navel ship yard in the eighty’s and stood boat house watch for both commands. Got to know so many amazing people .
I surved on the Indy (Independence CVA62) from 1971-74. I worked flight deck with arresting gear. Great memories as a young high-school grad. And a navy enlistment kept me out of Vietnam. Just a few months pass and the next lottery my number was very low. I would rather be swabing decks then a grunting through the jungle. AB 3rd class
When you talk about the Kitty Hawk, please tell all the story about the race riots that almost ruined the navy. The navy has come a long way since that time and shows how it has many black officers and enlisted sailors with high authority, thank you, God bless our navy and the United States.
Hey the USS Midway is doing great as a museum in San Diego.
Why not the USS Kitty Hawk.
Also the intrepid in New York is doing well.
People will come save the Kitty Hawk.
Save all Battleship aircraft carriers and destroyers. They all have good histories and they save a lot of lives.
Served 72-75 ABE
I was with vf-142. On was on the kitty hawk 1969 for 8 months with my squadon.. then transferred off. I had I great time. I couldn’t believe it was going for scrap. It need to be museum for people to see a great carrier. I left the navy in 1976 june.
I served on her in 81 to 84. Great experience for me and others.
I support her becoming a museum, near kitty hawk NC would be nice.
Little know fact about her is she was slated to be the USS Constellation but a fire in the shipyard cause delay so kitty hawk took on the constellation s hull.
In fact, in the main engine room- the name plate had Constellation on it.
I served on the Kitty Hawk from late 65 till early 69 as a Boatswain mate 4th div. During Vietnam America flew over 41,000 missions from the Kitty Hawk saving GIs. Surely that’s worth something more than selling her for a penny to be scrapped. I agree she would be a welcome friend in Kitty Hawk NC . Sailors, call your congressman and senators look up how much she cost and how much they sold her for ,tell them the facts.
David Mellonoskie Bates
On the Kitty Hawk from ’77 till ’79. Left her in Japan when she went to rescue Shah of Iran.
Save the big bird nest! Did two westpac tours on her 1970-72. Remember the typhoon we went through with EVERYTHING battened down!? That was a crazy ride. I was discharged two weeks before the riot. Although I had no issues, the racial tension was palatable, we knew it was coming, just not exactly when. Want to see if the Stars and Stripes I painted on a bulkhead of the teletype shop is still there. So many memories and stories. Would be awesome to go aboard again.
This is great they wouldn’t even save USS AMERICA CV66 the country’s namesake carrier from destruction. It is now sitting on the bottom of the Atlantic. Best duty flight deck crash crew 81-86
I serviced on the USS KITTY HAWK CV , V-3
I was one of the first females to ever serve on Ship. I was ship’s company. She is amazing. Please Save Her! ⚓️🙏🇺🇸 Gulf war, Persian Gulf and Iraq war, Desert Storm Desert shield.
I served aboard her from 81-85 and would love to see her turned into a museum.
Hi all. I served aboard the Kitty Hawk from 1983 to 1987. In V-3 division. Lots of memories of the ship and shipmates.
I also remember the night she hit the Russian sub.
I too think she should be a museum.
The Kitty Hawk was my first assignment, serving from 1972 to 1975. Vietnam Nam aboard the Kitty Hawk. She was my first home, I retired from the Military in Dec of 1993. She is a proud ship and she shouldn’t be scraped. I feel as if I’m being scraped as well.
I served on her 87-90 and experienced so much. I worked the SFWP in Philadelphia to ensure her life for another 30 years. I knew every part of the ship and know she would have made a great museum.
Sad that Kitty Hawk couldn’t have gone somewhere for history’s sake so we who served on her could take family and friends aboard to visit, and we could show them around where we lived and worked many long hours/days. I was an AC2/AC1 (Air Traffic Controller) in OC Division/CATCC/Air Operations/Carrier Controlled Approach Radar Controller 1974-1978. We certainly tried to get her on a Donation Hold in hopes of getting her as a museum ship somewhere; preferably Long Beach near the Queen Mary, what a draw that would have been to have them close to each other!!!! Unfortunately not to be —- @@@######%%%%&&&&!!!!!!!! Dammit!!!!!! Shipmates, check out “Facebook” for “International Shipbreaking Port of Brownsville” page. They have said they will be making “Challenge Coins” and “Deck Plate” memorabilia for purchase as we go down the road. Keep checking their Facebook page to stay abreast of them.
Well they should save this piece of history. It was part of so many people’s lives. History happened on board.
My next assignment in the US Navy after the (then) Navy Air Base in Kodiak, Alaska I was sent The North Island Naval Base where I was trained in E2-A Hawkeye aircraft. As a plane captain (not a pilot if the aircraft) in VAW 114 from 1967 through (most) if 1968 on board the Kitty Hawk. I spent quite a few days and even nights working when flight deck out on the Tonkin Gulf of Vietnam.
The Kitty Hawk was a good ship and should not be sold for less than a dollar to be cut into pieces. Yes; it would have cost the US Government money to keep her as active shop. But; I’m pretty sure it would have cost less than some of newest carriers being built
In 1979 I made my first WESTPAC deployment on the USS Kitty Hawk as an Airman Apprentice (E2). I was assigned to an A6 Intruder Attack Squadron VA52 known as the Knight Riders and sent on temporary duty to the Kitty Hawk’s Avionics (IM3) Division. 19 years later I went back to the Kitty Hawk for my last sea duty assignment before retiring where I served as Leading Chief Petty Officer for Avionics (IM3) Division. It just seemed like the perfect ending to where my adventure began. I will always have fond memories of the Kitty Hawk. I also served on the USS Midway CV-41 and it is now a museum in San Diego, CA, and it is the number one tourist attraction here. I think turning the Kitty Hawk into a museum in NC is a great idea!
Retired SCPO
Contact the USS Midway CV-41 museum in San Diego and ask them how they did it (619) 398-8229
I flew on board the mighty hawk in 1963.my knowledge of the navy and my chosen field of service was increased many times.hospital corpsman.i also became a man. I also reenlisted for 4 years onboard. When my three years were up I was high lined off, what an honor. I felt I had completed a full cycle in my life on board the great lady.i didn’t want to leave ,but I also felt it was time to take what this great ship and crew had given me to other places .yeah,the mighty hawk.
My first ship as a commissioned officer from class #1 SWO School Coronado. Served three years as division officer three different divisions and OOD(U) from 1975-1978. Have a ton of stories.
Would like at least one last visit as now I’m 71.
Is their a chance on saving it?
Ransom Livingston, I lived on the hawk from 73 to 7 by by7 a city on the sea, crossed the equator twice, I can’t think of a better ship to have been on.
My lifetime regret is robbing two liquor stores at 13 and ruining my chance in the Navy,,Next life
She was my home 1967-1969. She 2as the longest serving aircraft carrier in Vietnam. Doing away with her is like America wanted for us Vietnam veterans returning home. They wanted to do away with us just like this Vietnam veteran, Kitty Hawk.
Was onboard from 80 to 82 made one Westpac gmt nuclear weapons technician 2nd class w division
48 contagion states except Hawaii and ….
COMMUNICATIONS DEPT, USS KITTY HAWK CV63, 2 JANUARY 1986 TO 1 DECEMBER 1989. GREAT SEA COMMAND WITH A LOT OF HISTORY SERVING THIS GREAT COUNTRY. I HAVE MULTIPLE PHOTOS OF THE BATTLE CAT, & REFLECT ON MY TIME ABOARD HER EVERY DAY.
Remember Lcdr Meyericks, I also remember Nichols, was he Lt jg or Warrant officer? I was ships company 87-90.
I served on the Kitty Hawk from September 68 to January 72 with two tours of Vietnam and a dry dock in Bremerton, WA. I met my best friend on board who grew up in the same area that we both live today. He and I have talked many times about wanting to take our wife’s to tour the ship. I’ve had dreams of seeing her again. It would be a wonderful thing if she could be saved for a museum.
served 2 west pac cruises on the ranger with va 165, I was an aviation ordenancemen
Nothing compairs with the flight deck during flight ops
Save the old gal, do not let her go like they did to the ranger
Fresh out of Navy A school, Millington, TN., I reported for duty with VAH-13, NAS Sanford , FL. in Oct., 1960. In 1961, squadron transferred to NAS Whidbey Isl, WA.
A 3 plane detachment went aboard USS KITTY HAWK at Norfolk and we set sail for North Island, CA. via Cape Horn. A trip I will never forget thanks to King Neptune.
I did two WesPac cruises aboard the “Hawk,” ’62 & ’63. I only did 4 years, but serving aboard USS KITTY HAWK was the best.
I strongly support saving the KITTY Hawk
VAW-114 CV-63 1980 -1982 West Pac ’81
Nobody in congress will do anything to help the kitty hawk, all they want to do now is remove or destroy great things of our once great country. It’s just so sad whats happening to America.
I spent 3 years on the Hawk when it was in Yokosuka, Japan. From 2000 to 2003. The best years of my life. So many wonderful memory’s. We can’t let her become strap medal. Long live the Kitty Hawk.
Master at arms navy
No scraping
tons of scraping…DAILY, no longer in need of scrapng as it is being sctapped.
I was in VS-21 served aboard the Kitty Hawk in 1979 Westpac. My brother served on the Kitty Hawk in 1985 to1987 as ship’s company
As much as I would like to see the Kitty Hawk saved, the EX-USS John F. Kennedy, CV-67, currently moored in Philadelphia, was THE last conventionally powered carrier procured by the Navy. Additionally, the Kennedy has not been cannibalized as badly as the Forrestal and Kitty Hawk class ships. That said, unless something drastic happens immediately (which is unlikely) the JFK will be towed to Brownsville to be scrapped, as well. I was an AT2 aboard the Independence with my squadron VF-32 from January 1982 until May 1985, and did two ACTDUTRA periods aboard the USS Eisenhower (CVN-69) as an AT1 Naval Reservist. I retired from NAVAIR at NAS Pax River almost five years ago. It would be wonderful to see one of these ships saved, but the Navy would need to terminate the contract with the breaker in order for that to happen.
Bravo Zulu, on a job well done Kitty Hawk crews, a remembers of Captain Pat Driscoll.
I was on the Hawk from 1966 -69 .
Most of it in the Viet Nam area.
Was with an F4 squadron. The Kitty Hawk is a great ship. It has a lot of history and should be preserved. Hardly a day goes by that I don’t think about those days and the men I served with. Save the Kitty Hawk.
My father was David Clark chief of the kitty hawk passed away from agent orange ..in Vietnam .got pics ..thank you for your service
In case you haven’t heard, she is in Brownsville, Texas. They have already started to take her apart. Another sad day for us o’l flattop sailors.
I said from the USS Kitty hawk from the US 73 79 that was my home I threw it around the world on the west coast on USS Kitty hawk I wish I could remain as a museum forever
Not sure if I’m a USS Kitty hawk from the year 73 to 79 I had some of the best times of my life on the Kitty hawk wish I could remain as a museum forever
Not sure if I’m a USS Kitty hawk from the year 73 to 79 I had some of the best times of my life on the Kitty hawk wish I could remain as a museum forever
USS Kitty hawk from the year 73 to 79 I had some of the best times of my life on the Kitty hawk wish It could remain as a museum forever , I made 2
westpacs on the Kitty hawk and it was a very very fascinating experience one which will never be forgotten
Picked up the Kitty Hawk in Bremerton, WA drydock 1970. Was at sea shortly thereafter. Two tours in Wespac. Served in the IOIC in support of our brave pilots. I was 18. Saw the world. Loved flight ops. Formative time in my life and proud to have served. Long Beach or San Diego would be a cool spot to put her on display.
I got to join Kitty Hawk at sea via COD, 1 July 1969, assigned to W Division. Great division, great ship. I think Kitty Hawk put more bombs onto Vietnam than any ship in the Tonkin Gulf.
I was SEA OP DET NASNI AIMD I served on the Kitty Hawk and Constellation. As these are the last carriers to ever have a chance at being a museum, save it. Save the USS Kitty Hawk. All the other ships I sailed on the Nimitz, the Carl Vinson they evidently cannot be museums based on the fate of the Enterprise. Save her. She is an important piece of history and the last of her kind.
I served on the Kitty Hawk “the battle cat” from 2004 to 2008. Were I become life long friends with a man who is call my older brother. At that time she was in Japan.
I served on The USS Kitty hawk from 1990 to 1992. I was the crash and salvage chief. I enjoyed being on her. I thought it was a great ship with a lot of adventures and history. I meant a lot of long-lasting shipmates. It would be grand to have her as a museum in either place North Carolina or San Diego.
Save the Battle Cat !!! My first ship 77-78. One WestPac in V3 Division. The first in many ways and the last non-nuke to be decommissioned.
My father Leo Pich died while on active duty on the Kitty Hawk 1968.It is heartbreaking to think that it was sold for penny and will be dismantled. Please keep this from happening.
I spent three years aboard the USS Kitty Hawk. 1976- 1979. She deserves better. I find it hard to believe that they could treat her this way.
41 should have moved out for 63… The Kittyhawk **WAS** San Diego, not the Midway
My father was the chief of the kitty hawk David Clark passed away over 10 years ago ..died from agent orange miss him dearly . He rebuilt the phalanx ..and recalibrated it in desert storm too..was a hero ..
What can I do to help make sure the USS Kitty Hawk is saved.
I was on the Kitty Hawk from April 1966 to Sept 1969. A lot of memories, would love to see her again.
I served on the Kitty Hawk on a Viet Nam cruise from Nov. 1970 to July 1971. I was part of the air wing and spent six months working on the flight deck on the LOX crew. I had a great experience while on her. I remember when she was commissioned out of Philadelphia, my home town. I watched as she passed under the Walt Whitman bridge with her radar mast laying down to clear the bridge.
I hated to hear she was sent to the scrap yard. She should be a museum because she served our country for so long and served so well!
Was on the USS Kitty HAWK after the riots for 18 months ships company anybody else wasn’t pleasant
Don’t ignore me there was a riot on the USS Kitty Hawk I was there
Although I did not serve in the armed services, I am very proud to have been a part of the repair and maintainance aboard the Kitty Hawk, Constellation and Ranger in San Diego. Began in ship repair yard in 1978. Still working now in Portland Oregon yard. Spent 15 days at sea on the Connie doing repair after her main space fire at sea. Let’s save the Kitty Hawk.
I was in VF-114 from 62 to 64 also. I was an ADJ3 and worked on the line. What was your job in the squadron? I did love my time on the ship. My wife and I have toured the ship a couple of times when she was docked in San Diego. I also hoped they would have turned it into a museum.
Ain’t gonna happen. I am a USS Forrestal veteran and we tried to save our very special ship. Good luck Kitty Hawk.
I WAS IN THE NAVY FROM SEP 1963 TO AUG 1967.I STARTED AT NAS LEMORE,CALIF. FROM THERE,I GOT ORDERS TO NORTH ISLAND NAS,VAW-11.ARE CARRIER WAS THE USS CONNIE CVA-64 AND WE ARE HEADED FOR VIET-NAM! WE HAD OUR 6 MONTHS ON LINE WHEN THE KITTY HAWK CVA-63 RELIVED THE CONNIE,WE GOT BACK TO THE STATES AND A MONTH LATER I GOT ORDERS TO THE USS KITTY HAWK,THE CARRIER THAT HAD RELIVED US ,I WAS FLOWN TO SUBIC BAY, THEN FLOWN TO THE KITTY HAWK.WE CAME BACK THE STATES ,I WAS DISCHARGED OFF THE KITTY HAWK AUG.29 1967. I HATE TO SEE HER GO INTO SCRAP,SHE NEEDS BETTER THAN
THAT, PART OF MY LIFE IS IN HER,ALONG WITH A LOT OF OTHERS…..SHE WAS A GREAT SHIP AND DID A GREAT JOB FOR ARE COUNTREY
We thank you for your service, and, just like you, wish she could have been saved. Thank you for your memories.
Served on Kitty Hawk 1970 to Dec. 1972 did 2 Westpacks Vietnam.Hate to see her scraped.Always was hoping it be used for a museum served in a division air compressor shop.
I was on the BonHommeRichard. We were parked next to the Kittyhawk. Years later, we toured the Kittyhawk at North Island. Save CVA63.
I served aboard CV-63 Kitty Hawk from 1974-78 and on two WestPac cruises (74-75, 77-78) while assigned to HS-8 in CAW-11. I served many positions with Hs-8 including HASW & CSAR HAC but of all the best was my time in HS-8’s “Green Machine” as A/c Div Off under the most capable leadership of then LCdr Bruce Valley, Maint Off. There was no task we wouldn’t take on and best beyond routine excellence. Our OpReady Rate for our then aging SH-3Ds was outstanding. I often recall many life shaping experiences in HS-8 under Bruce’s leadership that I rely on for guidance in life to this day when it was only his unstated “excellence is expected” guidance that formed our plans and actions. I retired from USN still wishing to this day that I could have done more to serve our country.
It would be an honor to revisit Kitty Hawk but it is the quiet memories of my Squadron mates and our special bonds of unmitigated successful achievements that are my lasting tributes to our times well spent.
Lou Fifer, CDR USNR (Ret)
HS-8 “Eightballer”
Most of these comments reflect the Russian submarine’s collision with Kitty Hawk. There were two more remarkable events during the 1984 Carrier Battle Group (CVBG) deployment:
USS O’Brien, DD-975, a Spruance class destroyer, was separated from the BG and ordered to the Straits of Hormuz. Iraq and Iran were in a tanker war with each side trying to sink the others oil tankers, the source of income to fight their war with each other. Just after we arrived in the area a Greek tanker, the Fillikon L. was hit by an Exocet missile at the waterline, but it did not explode. An American EOD team was sent to our ship to help dismantle the missile. They did after a day of prying it from the side and after the Fillikon L. had drained the oil from that tank to another. It was put in a missile container and we, the HSL-33 Detachment onboard, VERTREPED it from the tanker to O’Brien’s stern, where it was lashed down, missile and warhead complete Exocet missile, for further transport back to intelligence back in Washington, D.C. We needed to know how to counter them since our enemies had them yet France would not sell them to us.
Later, when after the Kitty Hawk CVBG left the Philippines for home a miracle occurred. On the morning of 14 July 1984 we were transiting the Pacific but the ocean was calm. Not just calm, but exactly like a mirror calm! Then it was discovered at morning quarters one of the cruisers in the BG had a sailor who was missing and last seen about 2300 on the fantail. The BG commander kept the BG transiting towards Hawaii but sent O’Brien and one H-3 back to find him. Already over eight hours in the Pacific Ocean. Our ship because we were the only aviation capable ship that could refuel the H-3 and because we had our SH-2F also to help in the search. The Navy had to tell his relatives we at least searched for him.
I was Officer-in-Charge of this SH-2F detachment and had over 4,000 helo hours flying for 14 years straight, mostly over the gulf and Pacific so I was familiar with the ocean’s characteristics. We all, everyone in the CBG, knew the chances of finding this sailor were slim. Over eight hours without a lifevest. And I knew from experience it is very difficult to find a persons head in the ocean which is always turbulent from wind, waves and currents. But today the Pacific Ocean was a mirror. A miracle. The H-3 found him waving and splashing 107 miles back down our track. As the H-3 refueled onboard O’Brien our corpsman checked on the survivor and he was safely returned to his cruiser. We had all seen a miracle and even though I wasn’t a Christian at the time, I, like most of the 5,000 plus CVBG sailors, knew this was more than a coincidence. The Pacific mirror calm extended over a hundred miles to enable this sailor to be saved!
Strongly recommend Kitty Hawk be made into a museum like the Midway.
The Kitty Hawk was my home for 3 years please save that big baby
I am with you in saving the USS KITTY HAWK. I have wrote to my congressional reps to in courage them to help save her but to no avail. They are not interested and do not care bout historical or memorials. It’s bout lining there pockets and what they want.
My Father John Edgecomb served on the USS Kitty Hawk in 1963 Vietnam war. I know my father would hate to see her go to scraped, he always told me stories about his days on kitty hawk. I really wish our country would reconsidered making her into a museum for those who have family who would love to know their family history & stories about this ship. I know I would love to visit this fine beauty with my daughter so she can see the ship that her granddad was on & to protect our country. This break my heart that most war ships get scraped all the time just because they are out of service. Please don’t get rid of our history!!
My Father served on the USS Kitty Hawk in 1963 Vietnam war. He used to tell me stories about the ship he served on, he had a great experience while on her. He was a fireman apprentice. Please save her. Please don’t scraped her! Strongly recommend Kitty Hawk be made into a museum so young generation like my daughter can see the beautiful ship that her granddaddy served on. This breaks my heart to see a piece of history go scrape yard.
I served on board the USS Kitty Hawk CV-63 from 1990 – 1993. Arrived in Philly while she was in SLEP as an SK1.
Made Chief and Senior Chief while serving on board in S-8 division. While in SLEP I got the permission from Captain Rainey to implement the MARS station on board so shipmates could communicate with their loved ones while at sea in the Atlantic, Pacific, Persian Gulf, and Indian Ocean. I earned SW and AW which took 3 hard deserving years to accomplish. By far the most rewarding time that I served in my 20 years in the United States Navy. Serving on board with my peers as a chief was the ultimate feeling of pride and joy while serving for my country. She will always be remembered as an awesome Aircraft Carrier. She made me what I am today a proud retired SKCS (SW/AW). “Fair winds and following seas”
I served on board the USS Kitty Hawk CV-63 from 1990 – 1993. Arrived in Philly while she was in SLEP as an SK1.
Made Chief and Senior Chief while serving on board in S-8 division. While in SLEP I got the permission from Captain Rainey to implement the MARS station on board so shipmates could communicate with their loved ones while at sea in the Atlantic, Pacific, Persian Gulf, and Indian Ocean. I earned SW and AW which took 3 hard deserving years to accomplish. By far the most rewarding time that I served in my 20 years in the United States Navy. Serving on board with my peers as a chief was the ultimate feeling of pride and joy while serving for my country. She will always be remembered as an awesome Aircraft Carrier. She made me what I am today a proud retired SKCS (SW/AW). “Fair winds and following seas”
I have truly enjoyed reading everyone’s comments and how much we all enjoyed our time onboard “The Hawk”, and “Shitty Kitty” and I am sure there are many names that the different crews have given to our Beloved USS Kitty Hawk CVA/CV-63. As for me, I came aboard in 1972 as an AKAN Aviation Supply in English. I served until the end of our WesPac in December 1975, leaving the ship as an AK-2 onto the Reserve Base at NAS Los Alamitos.
I have very fond memories of my time with her, she was a CVA-63 when I joined her then we went to Hunters Point and were changed to just CV-63. Then we sailed back to NAS North Island, San Diego, then onto WesPac 73 in which we had a fire in one of our engine rooms around 1800 hrs If I remember that far back and we helped with the Fire efforts until I believe until 0230 hrs losing the Lives of 6 of our shipmates later loosing another due to a Heart Attack later on in the Cruise. The following year WesPac the same engine room flooded due to the Sea Chest Value being damaged during the Fire the previous year.
Between these two WesPac, we went to the Philippines, Vietnam, Japan, Hong Kong, and Singapore, Crossing the Equator making us all Shellbacks including our ships Captain Kirksey, then onto Iran and we did an Air Show including the bombing of the Ocean for the Shah of Iran, a run in with a Russian Bear, I think that was both cruises.
I want to have her turn into a Museum on either coast then all that history before mine and as well after my time on our beloved USS Kitty Hawk CVA/CV-63. My Preference would be the West Coast because she was always a West Coast Ship and has earned the right to be near homeport. I thought that Long Beach had a spot for her. She was there overnight when they brought her down to Texas, so maybe we can get her back home. I have to admit to all my shipmates here would be good so that I could be able to work on her, but if the west coast is out then Kitty Hawk, North Carolina would be great as well. What do we all need to do to make these options come true before they cut her up after paying just a dollar to purchase her? I feel that all of us deserve her since we put more into her than a dollar, worth countless lives, blood, sweat, and yes tears went into her.
I also served proudly aboard the Kittyhawk CV-63. V-2div. Cat 4. 1979 -82. Wish that all who served before me and those who have yet to serve realize what a privilege it is. The USS Kittyhawk will sail forever in my life.
Did two West Pac cruises on her. VA-52. The ‘Island’ is as long as the ‘first’ flight at KH, NC. It should be made a museum in KH, NC. All these mega billionaires taking space flights. Would not be possible without the Wright Brothers. One of those guys could write a check. S.O.S.!
This article is moot.
As we speak, the former USS Kitty Hawk is almost half dismantled in the scrapyard in Brownsville Texas.
We have an Official Ship’s Reunion Association and we began the process of trying to save her as a museum many years ago. Our first official ship’s reunion association reunion was held in San Diego in September of 1997. We began then, years before she was even scheduled for decommissioning to try and save her as a museum. North Carolina and Pensacola Florida flatly refused our proposals to place her in those locations as a museum. Years later, a very viable proposal to place her in Long Beach Harbor in San Pedro California as a museum had very good local support and pier side, visitor center infrastructure in place. Then the DOD released thier ruling that she had never once been considered for donation hold status as a museum and was destined for scrap all along. Needless to say, this ruling was a very devastating blow to those of us in the official ship’s reunion association who tried so hard, for so long to save her as a museum. Seeing an article like this, years after we began the official process of saving her as a museum, is very misleading and pointless. It’s far too late now, and both figuratively and LITERALLY….. that ship has sailed.
I was a BM3 in 5th Division over the Bosn Locker Feb. 2nd, 1970. That date was my last active duty date. I joined the Navy in 1966 and out of San Diego Boot Camp I reported to the Kitty Hawk CVA-63. I made three Wes Pac Cruises till 1970. (66-67, 67-68, and 68-69) I loved my time on the Kitty Hawk and only remember the good times. I am so sorry that the information and details of my three cruises are not in detail? Never a mention of our ship put on recall in Hong Kong and reporting to the North China Sea to show force for the USS Pueblo capture? Anyone else notice? Love my USS Kitty Hawk experience.
Served on her from 76’ to78’ as Quartermaster. Learned a ton and met a gang of great people!
My first husband served on the USS Kitty Hawk before Gulf Wars. We were in Philly with her while she was in dry dock and I was on the Executive Board for the Wives Club. I miss the ship and have been following her story. It is my hope she’ll be turned into a museum, but I worry about her. I left him when he cheated on me with another serviceman’s wife so I don’t miss him, but I miss the Navy and the Kitty. She was home. I’ve got fond memories of having to pull my heels off to slide down her stairs. ha
I’m a designer and if, heaven forbid she’s dismantled, I would love to design a challenge coin to commemorate her. Forever in our hearts. Does anyone know if there’s already a coin? If there is I’d love one.
Thank you all so much for your service. /salute
My husband did norton was on the hawk from 75 to 80.he too had loved the navy he was sr chief engineering he was on the ranger too but me master chief he passed on August 31st 2022 he has prostate cancer 2 times early stages of Parkinson high blood pressure diabetic type 2 and last has pancreatic cancer with a tumor and his gallbladder ruptured. They left it in. He died in 3 months he now is in the memoral wall at Texas veterans cemetery in kileen tx. He was exposed to asbestosis celube and agent orange while serving his country now a widow have been trying for survivor benefits for widows of Vietnam vets. Its a year and nothing yet keep telling me you will get a letter if your approved .he did26 years and 4 months we were married as of this June 55 years . I enjoyed being a navy wife was so proud of my husband . Thank you for taking time to read this hVe a blessed day Patricia norton
The USS Kitty Hawk is very dear to our family. Our grandpop helped to build it, my dad flew off of it in his time serving in the US Navy, and then my brother served on it as well. Please save this amazing piece of history