View from the Bridge: The Captain James B. Cain Collection

A US Naval aviator during World War II, James B. Cain shot down eight enemy aircraft in combat as a Flying Ace. Cain received the Silver Star for “gallantry in action” as a member of Fighting Squadron 45 (VF-45). He flew over 100 combat missions during World War II and an additional 101 during the Korean War. A pilot of exceptional skill, Cain also received the Legion of Merit, four Distinguished Flying Crosses, and 13 Air Medals.

Only aviators can command US Navy aircraft carriers, though, so in June of 1965 Captain Cain took the helm of the USS Yorktown (CVS-10). Known for his larger-than-life antics, Cain was fond of shooting skeet off the stern of the carrier. He also welcomed aboard famed American actress, Ann-Margret, who dazzled the crew with a performance.

The beloved Captain said that his time on board the Yorktown was “the most rewarding and enjoyable” of his life. Cain was quoted, “Commanding the ‘Fighting Lady’ is to me like compressing the past, present, and future into one timeframe, thus allowing me to be part of this great Lady’s entire naval history.” As an avid member of the USS Yorktown Association, Captain Cain’s collection and story finds a proud home at Patriots Point.