The USS Forrestal (CV-59), formerly AVT-59 and CVA-59, was the first of the Navy’s “supercarriers”. The Forrestal was launched in 1954 from Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Co. in Virginia and commissioned in 1955. The supercarrier was named after former Secretary of the Navy James Forrestal and was the lead ship of her class of aircraft carriers. The other carriers of her class were the USS Saratoga, USS Ranger and USS Independence. She superseded Japanese carrier Shinano of World War II vintage as the largest aircraft carrier ever built by full load displacement and was the first to specifically support jet aircraft.
Last October, the Naval Sea Systems Command announced that All Star Metals located in the Port of Brownsville, Texas, was awarded the Navy contract to dismantle the Forrestal.
USS Forrestal in her prime!
Our first glimpse of the supercarrier entering the channel.
This picture makes the row of palm trees seem like match sticks.
The supercarrier makes the USS Coast Guard facility look sooo small!
Close up showing a tug on the starboard side used to help ensure the carrier's position is correct as it negotiates a slight turn in the channel. Look closely - see the two people standing on the deck?
Working hard to make a slight turn in the channel.
CV/AVT/CVA-59
A lot of boats with spectators were around to see this unique site.
A slight nudge by the tugs and the USS Forrestal makes a slight turn heading down the last stretch of the channel.
So long -- Thank You for Helping to Keep America Safe!
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