Marine Detachment USS Long Beach (CGN-9)

The Marine Detachment aboard USS Long Beach (CGN-9) served as an integral part of the ship’s company from her commissioning in 1961 until the Navy-wide phase-out of shipboard Marine detachments in the late 20th century. Responsible for internal security, ceremonial duties, and manning the ship’s secondary battery during General Quarters, the Marines also provided a landing force capability when needed. Throughout the Cold War, the detachment supported the cruiser’s various deployments, including Vietnam War operations and numerous show-of-force missions. The Marine Detachment was officially disbanded in the 1990s as part of a broader reorganization of Navy-Marine Corps manpower on surface ships.