What is the name of aircraft carrier in 1957 movie starring John Wayne?

The aircraft carrier in the 1957 John Wayne movie you're likely thinking of is the USS "Essex".

This movie is The Wings of Eagles, a biographical film about the life of famed aviator and Navy Commander Frank W. "Spig" Wead. The film features scenes on the USS Essex, a real-life aircraft carrier that served in World War II.

While the film uses the USS Essex, it actually filmed aboard the USS "Antietam" which was a decommissioned Essex-class carrier.