Ep 2. Carrier at War: The USS Enterprise

In episode 2 of War Stories season 1, titled "Carrier at War: The USS Enterprise," viewers dive into the history and extraordinary experiences of the USS Enterprise, the longest-serving aircraft carrier in American history.

The episode begins with a brief history of the USS Enterprise, which was commissioned in 1961 and served during the Vietnam War, the Cold War, Operation Desert Shield, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Viewers learn how the aircraft carrier earned the nickname "Big E" and see footage of the famous ship in action during different conflicts.

The episode then takes a closer look at the USS Enterprise's role in the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962. Viewers hear from former crew members who were on board during the crisis, including Tom Jones, a radar operator who was tasked with watching for incoming Soviet missiles. The show presents a tense moment where Jones' radar detected an object heading for the ship, which turned out to be a seagull. However, this moment highlights the intense pressure and anxiety that crew members faced during such a high-stakes situation.

The episode goes on to detail the USS Enterprise's involvement in the Vietnam War, during which the ship was the flagship of Task Force 77 and launched countless airstrikes against enemy targets. Viewers hear from former pilots who flew missions off the carrier and see footage of intense combat. The show also highlights the toll that the war took on crew members, including instances of "shell shock" and substance abuse.

Next, the episode explores the USS Enterprise's involvement in Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm during the Gulf War in the early 1990s. Viewers learn about the carrier's crucial role in launching airstrikes to weaken Iraqi defenses and how its ability to launch aircraft from hundreds of miles away made it a vital component of the coalition forces.

Finally, the episode addresses the USS Enterprise's role in the 9/11 attacks and the subsequent War on Terror. Viewers hear from former crew members who were on board during the attacks and see never-before-seen footage of the ship's operations in the Middle East. The show also touches on the controversy surrounding the USS Enterprise's decommissioning in 2017, which some saw as a premature retirement for such a storied vessel.

Overall, "Carrier at War: The USS Enterprise" provides a fascinating look into the history and experiences of one of the most iconic ships in US naval history. The episode features interviews with former crew members, historic footage, and detailed reenactments that ensure viewers gain a comprehensive understanding of the USS Enterprise's role in American military history.