The US Navy’s Smartest Idea In WW2

As the United States entered World War II, its fleet included just eight operational aircraft carriers, with additional ones still under construction. The sudden focus on carrier-based combat left no ships available for pilot training—a critical need for the war effort. In response, Captain R.F. Whitehead proposed a creative solution: conduct carrier pilot training in the protected waters of the Great Lakes.

The Birth of USS Wolverine

In January 1942, the Navy began discussions with the CNB Transit Company to repurpose a large coal-powered sidewheel steamer for training. By August 1942, the converted vessel was recommissioned as the USS Wolverine. At 500 feet in length and with a displacement of 7,200 tons, the Wolverine was a substantial ship powered by an inclined coal-fired compound engine producing 8,000 horsepower. It featured four funnels and could reach speeds of up to 16 knots.

Training operations began quickly, with aircraft from NAS Glenview performing takeoffs and landings. Although the sometimes choppy waters of Lake Michigan added risk, pilots adapted well, gaining valuable experience. In just the first four months, over 400 pilots were certified for carrier operations.

USS Sable: A Second Training Carrier

The success of the USS Wolverine highlighted the need for additional training capacity. This led the Navy to acquire a second Great Lakes steamer, the SS Greater Buffalo, which was converted and recommissioned as the USS Sable. Slightly larger than the Wolverine, the Sable displaced 8,000 tons and measured 535 feet in length.

It boasted a more powerful engine, generating 10,500 horsepower and reaching speeds of 18 knots. Like the Wolverine, the Sable was coal-powered, but it featured a steel flight deck, making it the Navy’s first aircraft carrier with such a configuration.

The Sable had a more complex design, including an enclosed bridge and a robust mast. This enhanced setup allowed for improved training, meeting the increasing demand for carrier-qualified pilots.

The Impact of Lake Michigan Carriers

Both the Wolverine and the Sable were instrumental in training not only pilots but also arresting gear crews, radar technicians, and other naval personnel. The USS Wolverine achieved an incredible 65,000 landings, while the USS Sable followed closely with over 51,000 landings. Together, they helped qualify more than 12,000 pilots by the war’s end.

Operating until the conclusion of WWII, these Great Lakes carriers played a vital role in preparing the U.S. Navy for the intense carrier-based combat that characterized much of the conflict. By leveraging innovative solutions and repurposing existing vessels, the Navy ensured that its pilots were well-trained and ready for battle, contributing significantly to the Allied victory.