The USS Princeton (CV/CVA/CVS-37, LPH-5) was an Essex-class aircraft carrier laid down in 1943, launched, and commissioned in 1945. After shakedown, the ship operated with the 8th Fleet in the Atlantic until 1946. Transferred to the Pacific, she served with the 7th Fleet, and later, after decommissioning in 1949, entered the Pacific Reserve Fleet. Reactivated for the Korean War, the aircraft carrier joined TF 77 in 1950, launching jet patrols and supporting Marines at the Chosin Reservoir. Through 1953, she flew strikes against bridges, supplies, and industry. Between 1954 and 1962, the ship was reclassified CVS-37 and conducted antisubmarine training. After becoming LPH-5, an amphibious helicopter carrier in 1959, she supported Marine operations and missions. During the Vietnam War, the vessel conducted its first combat vertical envelopment in 1964. From 1966 to 1968, the carrier supported major operations transporting Marines, evacuating wounded, and providing logistics. Serving with amphibious groups, she repeatedly deployed before returning to the US in late 1968. The USS Princeton was decommissioned and struck from the Register in 1970. Navy veterans, Marine Corps veterans, shipbuilders, and other professionals may have experienced occupational asbestos exposure aboard aircraft carriers, especially in areas such as boiler and engine rooms and around high-temperature equipment.
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