Escort Aircraft Carriers (CVEs) both supplemented the fast carrier task forces in a direct combat role and performed a host of combat support missions in the Pacific Air War.

Initially these ships were merchant hulls hastily converted to be aircraft carriers.  By 1943 CVEs were being mass produced by U.S. shipyards.  Between June 1941 and August 1945 the United States completed 115 CVEs, 38 of which were provided to the Royal Navy.  

The most important of these ships were the four Sangamon class, converted from oilers in 1942.  Three of the class were dispatched to the Pacific in December 1942, after the North African invasion, to add strength to the depleted U.S. fast carrier forces. They were typically equipped with air groups similar to those used on fast light aircraft carriers and primarily used to cover invasions. 

Ten similar purpose built Commencement Bay class ships were commissioned in late 1944 and 1945.  Only four of this class got into the combat zone, hosting Marine Carrier Air Groups.  Several more of these ships would have been ready for the invasion of Japan equipped with both Navy and Marine Air Groups.

The remaining 63 ships consisted of 13 converted merchantmen and 50 Casablanca class carriers produced by Kaiser.  When assigned combat missions in the Pacific these ships typically hosted a composite squadron of 16 Wildcats and 12 Avengers.  Typical combat missions included providing air cover for invasions, convoys, and the fleet train.  They also included antisubmarine patrol.  Combat support missions included transporting aircraft and air groups to and from the combat area and ferrying replacement aircraft and air crew to the fast carrier force.

During May 1945 the USN had 60 escort aircraft carriers in commission in the Pacific.  Twenty engaged in active combat operations while the remainder were in training, transport, or other combat support roles.