Exploring an aircraft carrier

The USS Midway has a long and decorated history. It was first launched in 1945, was involved in the Vietnam war, Desert Storm and was the first carrier group to be stationed in Japan. It was finally retired from active service in 1992.

Today it functions as a museum at Broadway Pier in downtown San Diego. The entrance fee is $17 which includes a great audio tour. There were also a number of past crew members employed as museum guides on the ship. It was particularly fascinating talking with them. I don't think there's any other actual aircraft carrier museum in the world....highly recommended!


Walking to the entrance, what a huge boat!


Chris as a hot seaman. How did they fit into those bunks???


These huge chains are attached to the carrier's anchor.


Engine room - imagine having to man this station...


Gotta keep the ship well oiled


Hilarious guide to the organizational structure of the Navy.


On the deck of the USS Midway.


Here is a model of an F-18 Hornet. By strange coincidence there was a tragic F18 crash in a San Diego neighborhood a day later.


Here is the bridge of the ship, too bad we didn't get a chance to go in as there wasn't enough time.


Finally we're at the bow of the ship. San Deigo is the largest Naval base on the west coast Those two ships on the other shore are both active aircraft carriers based in San Diego.


Here is the menu of what the crew ate everyday.