Welcome to "the floating city": How the Hornet dodged destruction

The USS Hornet fought in some of the biggest naval battles in world history, picked up astronauts returning from the first moon landing, and is allegedly one of the most haunted places in America. Three decades ago, this aircraft carrier was sold to a scrap dealer and seemingly destined for destruction until a group of preservationists saved the Hornet and turned it into a floating museum. Since the 1990s, the Hornet has been docked at the former site of Alameda Naval Air Station, but now the museum’s management are exploring a move across the Bay to San Francisco. This episode features interviews with Russell Moore, the museum’s Chief Experience Officer and author of the official book on the USS Hornet; and Bruce Douglas, a Navy veteran who served aboard the Hornet half a century ago and currently volunteers as a museum docent. Listen now to hear about USS Hornet history, how the Hornet was saved, and why it might be relocating. To see photos and links related to this episode, visit: Don’t forget to follow the East Bay Yesterday Substack for updates on events, boat tours, exhibits, and other local history news: Donate to keep this show alive:

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Welcome to "the floating city": How the Hornet dodged destruction is an episode from East Bay Yesterday by East Bay Yesterday.

This episode is 01:01:06 long.

This episode was published on Feb 3, 2026.

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