USS Hornet (CV-12) Haunted Aircraft Carrier
The aircraft carrier recovered Apollo 11 astronauts—but 300 sailors died aboard during WWII. Now a museum, crew members see ghostly sailors, tools move, and phantom footsteps echo through empty decks.
The USS Hornet (CV-12) saw heavy combat in World War II and later recovered the Apollo 11 and 12 astronauts. Now a museum ship, it’s considered one of the most haunted vessels in the US Navy.
The History
According to documented records:
The aircraft carrier served from 1943 to 1970:
- Launched in 1943
- Saw extensive Pacific combat in WWII
- Lost approximately 300 men during service
- Recovered Apollo 11 astronauts (1969)
- Decommissioned in 1970
- Now a museum in Alameda, California
The Deaths
During service:
- Combat deaths from Japanese attacks
- Aircraft accidents (carrier operations are dangerous)
- Suicides (a significant number)
- Accidents during operations
- An estimated 300 total deaths
The Hauntings
The Hornet is considered one of America’s most haunted ships:
The Sick Bay: Apparitions of sailors in vintage uniforms. Tools move on their own.
The Engine Room: Phantom footsteps and voices. Shadows of workers.
The Officers’ Quarters: A ghostly officer is frequently seen.
The Catapult Room: Where many accidents occurred. Highly active.
Common Experiences
Visitors and staff report:
- Sailors in WWII-era uniforms who vanish
- Footsteps on metal decks with no one there
- Tools moving or disappearing
- Cold spots throughout the ship
- Doors opening and closing
- Voices and conversation
- Feelings of being watched
Notable Incidents
The Kamikaze Attack: Japanese attacks killed many. Ghosts of those killed are reported.
The Suicides: A significant number of sailors committed suicide aboard. Their spirits may remain.
The Accidents: Flight deck operations killed many. Ghostly aircrew are seen.
Investigations
The USS Hornet has been investigated by:
- Ghost Hunters (TAPS)
- Numerous paranormal research teams
- The ship hosts regular paranormal events
Evidence includes EVPs, thermal anomalies, and video.
Museum Status
Today the ship is:
- The USS Hornet Sea, Air & Space Museum
- Open for tours
- Available for overnight paranormal investigations
- Hosts special events
The Overnight Program
The ship offers:
- Sleep on the ship experiences
- Paranormal investigation nights
- Many participants report experiences