- USS Barnes (CVE-20)
"For USS Barnes (CVE-7) see
HMS Attacker (D02) ."The second USS "Barnes" (AVG-20/ACV-20/CVE-20) was an
escort carrier in theUnited States Navy ."Barnes" was laid down under a
Maritime Commission contract; transferred to the Navy1 May 1942 ; launched22 May 1942 bySeattle-Tacoma Shipbuilding ,Tacoma, Washington ; sponsored by Mrs. G. L. Hutchinson, widow of Lieutenant Hutchinson; and commissioned20 February 1943 , CaptainCato Douglas Glover , USN in command. Originally classified AVG-20, she was reclassified ACV-20,20 August 1942 ; CVE-20,15 July 1943 ; and CVHE-20,12 June 1955 .The major task of "Barnes" throughout
World War II was the transporting of aircraft and personnel from theUnited States to the forward areas of the Pacific. In addition she served as a combat, training and pilot qualifying carrier.While performing these duties she launched her planes on several raids against Tarawa in the
Gilbert Islands operation (20 November –5 December 1943 ); and provided invaluable aircraft replenishment to the various task groups of the 3rd Fleet during the westernCaroline Islands operation (6 September –14 October 1944 ), and theLuzon attacks (19 October 1944 ).After
Japan 's surrender, "Barnes" remained in the Far East on occupation duty until3 November 1945 . Returning to the United States in March 1946, "Barnes" remained on the west coast for a period of time and then steamed to Boston, where she was placed out of commission in reserve29 August 1946 . Redesignated as ahelicopter escort carrier (CVHE-20) on12 June 1955 , she was stricken for disposal on1 March 1959 ."Barnes" was awarded three battle stars for her service during World War II.
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