February 2024 - MGlenn Ross

World War II US Navy Carrier Classes-And More

By Glenn | February 28, 2024 |

On the left, U.S. Aircraft CArriers: An Illustrated Design History by Norman Friedman. On the right, Warbirds of the Sea: A History of Aircraft Carriers & Carrier-Based Aircraft by Walter A Musciano

I recommend this video and these books for those looking for more information on US Navy carrier design and strategy in WWII.

US Navy Pay Grades For Enlisted Men in 1944

By Glenn | February 23, 2024 |

The cover of The BlueJackets' Manual 1944.

This is a quick overview of pay grades for enlisted men in much of World War II.

US Navy Task Force 58 Ship Formations

By Glenn | February 21, 2024 |

Ship formation used during daylight of Task Force 58. In a round circle the carrier flag ship is at the center. To its port and starboard are two other carriers, with a light carrier behind it. Surrounding them are battleships, cruisers and destroyers. This formation, called 5-VD, is used when the probability of air attack is high and that of submarine attack is low.

Brief description of three different formations used by Task Force 38/58 in the latter stages of World War II.

World War II Movies Are Not Always Accurate–That’s Okay

By Glenn | February 12, 2024 |

Placque on display at Museum of the Pacific War showing a picture of Franklin and listing her accomplishments.

I am pausing my research into USS Franklin to discuss movies and TV series. I’m in numerous Facebook groups related to history. In one, someone griped that the CGI in the Apple TV series, Masters of the Air, was terrible. Others complained about how the series was historically inaccurate because it incorrectly portrayed certain details.…