About this Unit
**Commander, Carrier Group THREE (COMCARGRU-3)**, established in 1944, has played a pivotal role in the United States Navy's power projection and maritime security operations. Initially formed during World War II, the unit participated in major Pacific campaigns, supporting carrier strike operations against Japanese forces. Throughout the Cold War and into the 21st century, COMCARGRU-3 commanded carrier strike groups, leading deployments in the Korean and Vietnam Wars, as well as Operations Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom. The command was eventually redesignated as Carrier Strike Group THREE (CSG-3), continuing its legacy of operational excellence within the U.S. Pacific Fleet.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: Commander, Carrier Group Three (COMCARGRU-3) traces its roots to World War II, originally established as Carrier Division Three in 1944 to command aircraft carrier task groups in the Pacific Theater.
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Korean War Service: During the Korean War, COMCARGRU-3 played a key role in providing carrier-based air strikes, close air support, and interdiction missions against North Korean forces.
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Vietnam War Operations: COMCARGRU-3 carriers, including USS Hancock (CV-19) and USS Coral Sea (CV-43), conducted numerous combat deployments in the Gulf of Tonkin, supporting air campaigns over North Vietnam.
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Cold War Patrols: Throughout the Cold War, COMCARGRU-3 was a critical element in the U.S. Navy's Pacific power projection, routinely conducting patrols and exercises to deter Soviet naval activity.
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Homeport Changes: The unit has shifted homeports multiple times, being based at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii; Alameda, California; and eventually San Diego, California, reflecting the evolving strategic needs of the Navy.
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Flagship Assignments: COMCARGRU-3 has frequently served as a flagship for U.S. Navy carrier strike groups, commanding vessels such as USS Enterprise (CVN-65), USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70), and USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74).
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Operation Desert Storm: In 1991, COMCARGRU-3 led carrier battle group operations in the Persian Gulf during Operation Desert Storm, launching air sorties against Iraqi targets.
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Humanitarian Missions: In addition to combat operations, COMCARGRU-3 has participated in major humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions, including responses to natural disasters in the Asia-Pacific region.
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Transformation to Carrier Strike Group Three: In 2004, COMCARGRU-3 was redesignated as Carrier Strike Group Three (CSG-3), reflecting the Navy's shift to the Carrier Strike Group concept integrating surface, air, and submarine assets.
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Legacy of Leadership: COMCARGRU-3 has been commanded by many distinguished naval officers, including future fleet commanders and admirals, illustrating its importance as a leadership stepping stone in the U.S. Navy.
