(images are of sister ship, USS Bogue, CVE-9)
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Breton was launched 27 June 1942 by Seattle-Tacoma Shipbuilding Corp., Tacoma, Wash., under a Maritime Commission contract; sponsored by Mrs. A. H. Rooks, widow of Captain Rooks; and commissioned 12 April 1943, Captain E. C. Ewen in command.
Throughout her World War II service Breton operated with the Carrier Transport Squadron, Pacific Fleet. Her sailings carried her throughout the Pacific supplying men, materiel, and aircraft to units of the fleet engaged in making strikes on the enemy. While engaged in these duties Breton took part in the capture and occupation of Saipan (11 June-10 August 1944); the Battle of the Philippine Sea (19-20 June); the 2nd Bonins raid (24 June); and the assault and occupation of Okinawa (6-7 April 1945).
Upon her return to the west coast in January 1946, after
serving as a unit of the Far Eastern occupation forces, Breton prepared
for inactivation at Tacoma, Wash., and went out of commission in reserve there
30 August 1946. She was reclassified CVHE-23 on 12 June 1955.
Breton received four battle stars for her World War II service.
Sources: Public domain Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships
and pictures from my father's 1943 Naval Recognition Manual
Contributions welcome, email me (photos of WW2 ships especially welcome).
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