The major task of Barnes
throughout World War II was the transporting of aircraft and
personnel from the United 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 Atoll in the Gilbert Islands operation from 20
November–5 December 1943, and provided invaluable aircraft
replenishment to the various task groups of the 3rd Fleet during the
western Caroline Islands operation from 6 September–14 October 1944,
and the Luzon attacks on 19 October 1944.
After Japan's surrender, Barnes remained in the Far East on
occupation duty until 3 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, Massachusetts, where she was
placed out of commission in reserve on 29 August 1946. Redesignated
as a helicopter escort carrier (CVHE-20) on 12 June 1955 |