Mardet USS Enterprise CVAN 65

• 1. Origins of MARDET: The Marine Detachment (MARDET) aboard USS Enterprise (CVAN-65) was part of a long tradition of embarked Marine units on U.S. Navy capital ships, serving from the ship’s commissioning in 1961 until MARDETs were phased out in the late 1990s. • 2. Security and Ceremonial Duties: MARDET Enterprise was responsible for shipboard security, nuclear weapons security, and providing ceremonial guards for dignitaries and official events, including the ship’s historic first nuclear-powered deployments. • 3. Vietnam War Service: Marines of the USS Enterprise MARDET participated in multiple Vietnam War cruises, manning gun mounts during General Quarters and supporting flight deck operations during combat missions. • 4. “The Big E” Nickname: Marines aboard embraced the ship’s famous nickname, “The Big E,” and designed patches, memorabilia, and unofficial mottos unique to their detachment, fostering unit pride. • 5. Space Capsule Recovery: In 1965, Enterprise and her MARDET were part of the recovery force for Gemini 3, with Marines ready for boarding and security operations during the historic mission. • 6. Cold War Readiness: During the Cold War, MARDET Enterprise Marines were trained for counter-sabotage, anti-boarding, and nuclear weapons security, reflecting the tension and unique mission of a nuclear-powered carrier. • 7. “Marine Barracks Afloat”: The MARDET maintained its own living spaces aboard the ship, including a “Marine Barracks” area, with strict discipline and traditions reminiscent of Marine Barracks ashore. • 8. Presidential Visits: USS Enterprise hosted multiple presidents, including Richard Nixon, and the MARDET provided ceremonial guards and security details during these high-profile visits. • 9. Deactivation and Legacy: The Enterprise MARDET was deactivated in the 1990s as part of a Navy-wide shift in security practices, but alumni of the detachment maintain strong camaraderie and organize reunions to this day. • 10. Honors and Awards: The MARDET received various letters of commendation and awards for performance, including recognition for their role during the ship’s 1986 operations against Libya and other critical deployments.