USS Constellation (CV-64) facts for kids

USS Constellation (CV-64)

The USS Constellation (CV-64) was a very large aircraft carrier, part of the Kitty Hawk group of ships. It was known as a supercarrier because of its huge size and power. This ship was the third one in the United States Navy to be named after the "new constellation of stars" found on the flag of the United States.

The Constellation was special because it was the only Navy ship allowed to show its designation numbers (CV-64) in red, white, and blue colors. It was also one of the fastest ships in the Navy. In 1985, it even won a race against other ships in its group! Its crew lovingly called it "Connie." President Ronald Reagan officially named it "America's Flagship."

About the USS Constellation

The USS Constellation was built to carry many airplanes and helicopters. These aircraft could take off and land right on its deck. This made the Constellation a powerful moving airbase on the ocean. It helped the Navy protect the country's interests around the world.

A Special Name and Numbers

The name Constellation means a group of stars. This name was chosen to honor the stars on the American flag. The ship's special red, white, and blue numbers made it stand out. It was a unique honor given to this particular carrier.

Speed and Power

Being one of the fastest ships meant the Constellation could get to places quickly. This speed was very important for its missions. It showed how well-designed and powerful the ship was. The 1985 race win proved its amazing speed.

President Reagan's Visit

In 1981, President Ronald Reagan visited the Constellation. He was the leader of the United States at the time. His visit showed how important the ship was to the country's defense. When he called it "America's Flagship," it was a great honor for the ship and its crew.

Images for kids

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  Constellation being built in Brooklyn, February 1960

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  Constellation sailing during its 1964–1965 trip

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  Constellation sailing near Vietnam, 1971–1972

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  Constellation near the Aleutian Islands during a big exercise in 1989

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  President Ronald Reagan visiting Constellation, 1981

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  Crew members on Constellation forming "Battle E" awards on the deck

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  Constellation sailing, seen from the front, 1988

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  Constellation visiting Seattle, 1996

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  Constellation in Sydney harbor, Australia, 2001

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  A B-25 plane on Constellation during the filming of the movie Pearl Harbor in 2000