[USS Essex surrounded by smoke from antiaircraft guns]

Photograph of the USS Essex (CV-9) surrounded by smoke from its antiaircraft guns, March 19, 1945. The image was taken from the USS Astoria (CL-90).

Inscription on verso: "Essex partially obscured by smoke from its AA guns, 3-19-45, 150 miles from E. of Kyushu. Note plane taking off. Pic taken from USS Astoria, H. Schnipper, photographer / H28."

Caption on album page: "Essex under attack and partially obscured by smoke from its guns. Planes taking off at same time. Picture taken from U.S.S. Astoria, 3-19-1945."

Part of a disassembled album containing materials related to Paul J. Madden's service with the U.S. Navy during World War II, circa 1940-1945.