U.S. Navy ships launched in the United States during World War II. Lieutenant Commander Mildred H. McAfee, USNR (US Navy Reserve), Director of the WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service) breaks a bottle of champagne on the bow of a carrier and christens USS Franklin (CV-13) in Newport News, Virginia on 14th October, 1943. A destroyer is launched at the Great Lakes. The destroyer is turned into an upright position. Shipyard workers cheer. A ship is launched sideways.
Preparation for launch of the Light Cruiser ship, USS Houston (CL-81) at Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company of Newport News, Virginia. Shipyard worker spreads grease on ways. He uses a wooden stick. Dock in the background.
The launch of aircraft carrier Hornet at the Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company, Newport News, Virginia. Aircraft carrier Hornet under construction at a shipyard. The bow of Hornet with the American flag. Scaffolding for construction. The christening of the aircraft carrier Hornet by Mrs. Frank Knox, wife of the Secretary of the Navy. The new aircraft carrier slides down the ways into the water. A crowd in the foreground. Several people holding umbrellas. Shipyard scaffolding in the background. The carrier anchored in the James River. Two tugs near the carrier.