HORNET: A historical note

Regarding USS Hornet’s position for the Apollo recovery of July 24, 1969:

Before another 49 years go by, I would like to correct an impression created elsewhere as to the accuracy of the Apollo ELEVEN Recovery and Recovery Force.

The Command Module Columbia, containing Astronauts Armstrong, Collins and Aldrin, splashed down six nautical miles southwest of Point XRAY, Houston’s specified target point, while USS Hornet and the Recovery Force were maneuvering six nautical miles to the northeast, under a 2,500-foot solid overcast.

Commanding Officer, USS Hornet was concerned as to the safety of USS HORNET and the dignitaries aboard ship, including President Nixon, in the event of Columbia landing on the Flight Deck.

ROBERT A. COSTIGAN

CDR USNRET

Navigator, USS HORNET (CVS-12)

Spirit Lake