World War II saw the Great Lakes playing an unexpected critical role. USS Sable (IX-81) and USS Wolverine (IX-64) were two aircraft carriers originally converted from steam ships to serve as training platforms. These carriers had no armor or weapons; their main purpose was to help American pilots develop their takeoff and landing techniques.
Ships Were Vital for Pilot Training
The ships provided an ideal environment for pilots to complete their crucial training before being sent to the Pacific. The training was designed to ensure that the pilots were ready for combat. As the war progressed to a stage where the U.S. could not produce new pilots at a rate sufficient to replace those lost in the Pacific, this training advantage became a crucial factor that altered the course of the war.
These Ships Helped Close the Pilot Gap
Thanks to these training ships, America was able to close the gap in pilots, gaining an advantage in the war. The training aircraft carriers in the Great Lakes have gone down in history as unsung heroes that directly affected the outcome of the war.
Source: U.S Naval Institute