Naval Air Campaign in Korea: 1951 Operations

During the Korean Conflict, naval and air power played a crucial role in the United Nations' efforts to counter the Chinese manpower advantage. This period, known as the 'long hard slog,' saw naval aviators working tirelessly to impede communist forces and provide support to ground troops. The USS Leyte (CV-32) operated in the Sea of Japan for an unprecedented 93 consecutive days, aiding the Marines in their strategic withdrawal from North Korea. The vessel's contributions were instrumental in the pivotal battles of 1951, where UN forces once again engaged in fierce combat along the thirty-eighth Parallel.

Amidst significant changes in air travel, the essence of naval aviation evolved as jet planes transformed the landscape. 'Holding the Line' vividly recounts the heroic struggles in Korea starting from the onset of the conflict until its conclusion in 1951. Focusing on frontline battles, the book also delves into the advancements in aircraft and shipboard operations, illustrating their impact on the strategic landscape of the Korean Peninsula.