Escort Carriers Sailors and Airmen Association

The Escort Carriers Sailors and Airmen Association (ECSAA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to representing the officers and men who manned the U.S. Navy's smallest aircraft carriers, known as escort carriers or CVEs, as well as the pilots and airmen who flew from these vessels. These carriers played a crucial role in various military conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

History of Escort Carriers

Escort carriers were essential in World War II for their role in hunter-killer groups that aimed to deter German U-boat attacks in the Battle of the Atlantic. They also served in the Pacific, notably during the Battle off Samar in the Battle of Leyte Gulf. In the latter conflict, the USS Gambier Bay and USS St. Lo were lost due to enemy action. These ships were not only pivotal in combat but also provided a platform for training and logistics operations.

Mission and Activities

The ECSAA's mission encompasses honoring the service of those who served on these smaller aircraft carriers. The association organizes reunions, provides historical resources, and maintains a memorial to those who served. One of its significant activities includes an annual convention, which typically features a memorial service, symposia on historical topics related to escort carriers, and opportunities for members to share their experiences.

In 2023, the association held its last face-to-face reunion convention, marking 30 years of service by CVE sailors and airmen. This event was a culmination of their efforts to preserve the history of these pivotal naval units and commemorated the re-commissioning of ECSAA into a historical and memorial organization.

Publications and Recognition

The association publishes a quarterly newsletter, The CVE Piper, which serves as a medium to share stories and honor the contributions of CVE veterans. A list of CVE veterans is maintained and published in the newsletter, allowing families and loved ones to have their relatives remembered. The association also rings a memorial bell annually to honor those who served on CVEs.

ECSAA is recognized as a nonprofit organization under the Employer Identification Number (EIN) 541599146. Its mission to remember and honor the service of those associated with escort carriers ensures that their contributions to naval history are preserved and celebrated.