“Known throughout the fleet as “Big Ben,” the USS Franklin was christened for the legacy of the four prior U.S. Navy ships named after Benjamin Franklin. The Franklin was a creation of World War II, one of twenty-four Essex-class fast carriers built during the conflict, forming the backbone of the U.S. Navy’s war against Japan. ”

The story of it’s being hit by a kamikaze and the ensuing fight for survival is incredible.  There were hours of explosions as the ammo stores and fuel for the airplanes went up.  And eventually it got back to the East Coast under it’s own power.

I am “sitting” with a friend with Alzheimer’s who was on that ship and listening to his stories, when he can tell them, is absolutely a rare treat.   He is one of the more remarkable people I’ve known, not just for this, and it’s a privilege to spend time with him.

This was the most decorated ship with the most decorated crew in WWII.  Both the chaplain and the EO got the Medal of Honor for what they did the day they were hit.  

There’s a “Mr. Roberts” quality to his stories.  Apparently the Captain of the ship was universally hated and the Exec universally loved.  Makes for some interesting story lines.

(With all due regard to ER, this is the reason the Navy sucks.  Most of the time they float around in relative luxury, no one shooting at them, no snipers, no booby traps, three hot meals a day, dry bunk.  And when it does go to hell, it really goes to hell.  No place to run or hide.  If you win the gamble, fine, and if you don’t, well, read the book.  Not fine.)

http://www.amazon.com/Inferno-Death-Struggle-Franklin-World/dp/0760329826/ref=cm_rdp_product