Signal Officer Directs Grumman Wildcat F4F Landing on Carrier 1942 Operation Torch
Landing operations aboard aircraft carriers, especially during World War II, were highly dangerous and required precise coordination. The Landing Signals Officer (LSO), commonly referred to as “Paddles”, played a crucial role in guiding pilots during their landings, particularly in stressful conditions such as battle. Positioned on an exposed platform at the stern of the carrier on the port side, the LSO used large, brightly colored paddles to visually signal instructions to the pilot. Some commands, such as the “wave off” (ordering the pilot to abort the landing attempt) and the “cut” (directing the pilot to cut the engine), were mandatory and had to be followed immediately. These signals ensured safe landings and helped avoid accidents that could endanger the flight deck crew rushing to secure the aircraft.
Supporting the LSO was the Flight Deck Officer (FDO), often referred to as “FLY 1”. This officer, usually a senior lieutenant or lieutenant commander, oversaw the entire deck operation during flight activities. The FDO and his team, including the LSO and plane handlers, were responsible for managing the flow of aircraft on the deck, ensuring safety, and keeping operations running smoothly. All members of the FDO’s staff wore yellow deck jerseys, making them easily identifiable during the chaos of landing operations.
In addition, the arrester cable team, located in the gun gallery, had the critical task of managing the arrestor cables, which caught the aircraft as it landed. These crew members, distinguished by their green deck helmets and jerseys, assisted in disengaging the tail hook of the landed aircraft and resetting the hydraulic arrestor cable system in preparation for the next plane’s arrival. When landings occurred in rapid succession, their job became particularly hectic and dangerous, as speed and precision were essential to prevent accidents.
The teamwork and coordination between the LSO, FDO, and arrester cable team were vital in ensuring safe and efficient carrier landings, which were among the most hazardous operations in naval aviation.