BISON Donation Supports Restoration of Historic USS Hornet Aircraft Carrier

The USS Hornet, a World War II aircraft carrier museum and memorial, recently received a donation of workholding equipment and tooling from BISON USA. The museum’s mission is to preserve and restore the Hornet to reflect its historic service while providing an engaging educational experience for visitors of all ages. Each year, approximately 100,000 guests visit the ship for tours, educational programs, and special events, making it a key destination for naval and aviation history.

“Maintaining the ship as a museum is incredibly challenging, and support like this helps us continue our restoration efforts.”
– USS Hornet Volunteer Crew Member Rich Pekelney

The restoration crew is continuously working to repair and maintain the ship’s equipment to ensure historical accuracy and long-term preservation. While the USS Hornet has acquired several lathes over the years to replace original machinery, the onboard machine shop has lacked the necessary tooling to operate at full efficiency. Bringing these machines up to capability is essential for producing and restoring critical components used throughout the vessel.

To support these efforts, BISON USA donated a precision-engineered chuck, adapter plate, and shell mill holders. Known for their durability, accuracy, and reliability, BISON workholding solutions will enable the Hornet’s crew to perform high-precision machining operations, including complex and irregular part work. This tooling will play a vital role in advancing the ship’s restoration by improving the functionality of its machine shop.

“We are proud to support the USS Hornet and its mission to preserve an important part of American history,” said leadership at BISON USA. “Providing high-quality tooling that delivers precision and reliability is essential in demanding applications like restoration work, and we’re honored to contribute to this effort.”

Founded in 1948, BISON-BIAL is a global leader in the manufacturing of technologically advanced workholding solutions. With decades of experience, BISON products are recognized worldwide for their quality, durability, and precision. From standard applications to specialized machining challenges, BISON continues to deliver solutions that meet the needs of modern industry.

The USS Hornet (CV-12) is an Essex-class aircraft carrier that served with distinction during World War II and later played a role in recovering Apollo 11 and Apollo 12 astronauts. Today, the ship operates as a museum in Alameda, California, where ongoing restoration efforts help preserve its legacy. Through support from partners like BISON USA, the USS Hornet continues to educate and inspire future generations while standing as a lasting tribute to American innovation and service.