Staying the Course
On April 15th, 1945, the USS Laffey (DD-724) was assigned to help repel an air attack just 30 miles north of Okinawa, Japan. During the attack, thirteen Japanese aircraft were downed. The following day, April 16th, fifty Japanese planes were launched into battle. Badly damaged by four bombs, six kamikaze crashes, and strafing fire, the USS Laffey continued to fight. Despite losing 32 sailors and 71 wounded, the brave men in Gun Mount 53 repelled the enemy fighters, buying time to save the ship. Visit the Mount 53 exhibit to catch a glimpse of what it took to survive this event.
In Search Of More Adventure?
Activity
Pick up your Scavenger Hunt at the Information Desk on the USS Yorktown. Happy hunting! Additional $3.00 ticket purchase required.
Additional $3.00 ticket purchase required.
Experience
An American Heroine: From WWII to Vietnam The USS Yorktown (CV-10) was the tenth aircraft carrier to serve in the United States Navy. Under construction as Bon Homme Richard, this new Essex-class...
Included with admission.
Experience
Take a step back to April 16, 1945 during an historic kamikaze attack on the USS Laffey and witness what it was like for the brave men serving in the gun mount.
Included with admission.
Activity
Additional ticket purchase required. Choose your adventure—or bundle both for the best value—and get ready to feel history like never before. Purchase Tickets
Simulator Ride $10/person, Virtual Reality Ride $11/person, Simulator & VR Bundle $19/person