The USS Wasp (CVS-18) was an aircraft carrier of the United States Navy. The ship was part of the Essex class, a class of aircraft carriers that served during World War II and the post-war period. The USS Wasp specifically served during the Korean War and the early years of the Vietnam War.
Commissioned in 1943, the USS Wasp initially participated in World War II in the Pacific theater, providing air support for operations in the Pacific. After the war, the ship underwent conversion to an antisubmarine warfare carrier (CVS) to serve in a different role.
During the Korean War, the USS Wasp served in the Korean theater, providing air support for operations and conducting antisubmarine patrols. It played a role in the United Nations' effort to counter North Korean aggression.
In the early years of the Vietnam War, the USS Wasp was deployed to Southeast Asia. It participated in operations that aimed to interdict the flow of supplies and personnel from North Vietnam to the Viet Cong forces in South Vietnam. The ship's aircraft conducted strikes against targets in North Vietnam and provided air support for ground operations in South Vietnam.
The USS Wasp underwent several modernization and refit programs during its service life. It received updates to its weapons systems and aircraft capabilities to adapt to changing technology and mission requirements.
After serving in multiple conflicts, the USS Wasp was decommissioned in 1972. It received several commendations and battle stars for its service in World War II and the Korean War. The ship's contribution to the Vietnam War, particularly in providing air support and conducting operations in the region, was an important part of the U.S. military effort during that time.