Cold War Icon: Why the USS Franklin D. Roosevelt Mattered
The USS Franklin D. Roosevelt¹ wasn’t just a warship—it was a Cold War icon, redefining American naval power in the jet age. Launched in 1945 and pioneering the use of jet aircraft on carriers, she embodied a new era of military capability. For 32 years, “Rosie” carried U.S. influence from Mediterranean standoffs to the shores of Vietnam. Yet despite her trailblazing legacy, shifting budgets and priorities forced her into early retirement. Here’s a look at how this legendary carrier shaped the evolution of naval warfare and aircraft carrier design at a critical time in history. A Presidential Namesake The USS …