Please join us in the Wardroom on the USS Hornet (CV-12) as we cover a pivotal battle of the Pacific War in World War II: the Battle of Midway, the evolution of carrier warfare, and the modern role of the carrier strike group in strategic regions such as the Strait of Hormuz.
This discussion explores Midway as a turning point in naval history, highlighting the rise of aircraft carriers and airpower as dominant forces in maritime warfare. It traces the strategic and tactical impact of carriers during the 1942 battle and examines how the lessons from Midway shaped U.S. naval doctrine. The discussion then shifts forward to today’s operational environment, focusing on how the modern carrier strike group projects power, ensures maritime security, and operates in contested environments like the Strait of Hormuz, where geography, geopolitics, and emerging threats converge.
It further addresses contemporary challenges to carrier effectiveness, including hypersonic weapons, cyber threats, and advanced anti-ship missile systems. By placing the historical significance of carriers at Midway alongside modern strategic realities, this conversation raises compelling questions about the future role of aircraft carriers in a rapidly evolving global security landscape.
David Nagel will be our presenter for this event.
Bio:
David F. Nagel is a Navy veteran who served aboard the USS Nimitz (CVN-68) as an aircraft mechanic. Following his military service, he built a distinguished career in the aerospace industry, including serving as Production Manager for the Boeing 737 Next Generation and 737 programs. A certified Six Sigma Black Belt, David brings decades of expertise in aerospace operations and leadership. He also volunteers as a docent on the USS Hornet, where he shares his passion for naval aviation history. His combined military and industrial experience offers a unique perspective on the evolving role of aircraft carriers in both historical and modern contexts.
