Task Force (1949)

On the day of his retirement, Rear Admiral Jonathan L. Scott looks back on his pivotal role in introducing aircraft carriers to the U.S. Navy. Following World War I, military downsizing posed challenges, and developing carrier-based aviation was a limited opportunity. The initial aircraft were not tailored for flat-top landings, resulting in tragic accidents during training. Nevertheless, Scott and a group of visionaries persisted in their quest for aircraft carriers and purpose-built planes. Their perseverance paid off during World War II, notably in the Battle of Midway, showcasing the value of carriers and specialized aircraft throughout the conflict.