Bon Homme Richard (CVA 31) - Naval Cruise Book

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Durin.iJ the period of her transit to iier rendezvous with Task Force 38 BON HOMME RICHARD was welcomed lii the Western Pacific by ideal weather conditions. As the days progi ' essed, the men and aircraft were put tiirough an extensive training and drill cycle. Tiic lime to be prepared was now and not when the enemy was close at hand. Flight (jperations were flown day and night; systems were checked and re-checked; men were drilled, and that fine edge of readiness was brought out. There was still time for the time honored tradition of swapping sea stories over a cup of coffee and a hot game of acey-deucy in the wardroom. It was a time for briefings and celebration. There wouldn ' t be much free time in the next few weeks. IV rv fcr li

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The time was June 1945; the place, Ulithi in the Caroline Islands; tiie mission, destroy the enemy. BON HOMME RICHARD made her rendezvotis with Task Force 38, just as TF38 was completing operations in support of the Okinawa campaign, and in the three remaining days BON HOMME RICHARD flew carrier air patrols and launched day and night strikes against Okino Daito Jima. With the Task Force the ship proceeded to the new fleet anchorage at Leyte Gulf, Philippine Islands, where she remained from June 13 through June 30. This replenishment and rehabilitation period was interrupted by a four-day training cruise during which time the ship conducted independent night flight operations, rejoining the Task Force in the daylight liours.