Watch USS Block Island Prepares for Battle in April 1945, Encountering Enemy Forces on Route to Ulithi Atoll

Setting Sail

In mid-April 1945, USS Block Island (CVE‑106) left Pearl Harbor after final drills and crew classes. Their mission: sail to Ulithi Atoll, then the world’s largest naval anchorage, to join the Pacific war effort.

By April 17, the escort carrier sailed with the destroyer USS Harry E. Hubbard (DD‑748), moving via Eniwetok toward Ulithi. Onboard, pilots and crew prepared for life at sea and combat operations before arrival. Over the next days, they sailed across the western Pacific, anticipating action ahead.

First Brush with Enemy

On April 28, as they neared Ulithi, radar on Block Island picked up a “bogey” — an unidentified plane approaching. The ship sounded general quarters and watched as shore-based fighters intercepted and shot down the Japanese Nakajima B6N1 “Jill” bomber 18 miles from Ulithi. It was Block Island’s closest brush with enemy forces on this route.

Ulithi Atoll served as the main staging area for Pacific operations, supporting launches into the Philippines and Okinawa. The Block Island and destroyer duo delivered planes, men, and support crew. When they arrived, the lagoon held hundreds of ships being refitted or resupplied for upcoming missions.

The Role of Escort Ships

USS Harry E. Hubbard provided protection, guarding carrier and convoy against air raids and submarines. These destroyers defended against kamikaze attacks and surface threats during operations off Okinawa into summer 1945. Their presence helped keep the sea lanes safe.

That April route to Ulithi stands as a vital moment in USS Block Island’s service. From training drills in Pearl Harbor to meeting its first enemy aircraft, this voyage marked the start of its final combat phase in the Pacific theater.

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