USS California (CGN-36)

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Branch

U.S. Navy

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About USS California (CGN-36)

USS California (CGN-36) was a nuclear-powered guided missile cruiser commissioned into the United States Navy on February 16, 1974. As the lead ship of the California-class, she was designed to provide air defense and anti-submarine warfare capabilities for carrier battle groups during the Cold War. Over her service, USS California participated in numerous deployments, including operations in the Mediterranean, Indian Ocean, and Persian Gulf, notably escorting vital convoys and supporting U.S. interests overseas. After over two decades of distinguished service, she was decommissioned on July 9, 1999, as advancements in naval technology and high operating costs led to the retirement of her class.

Unit Members

Terry Martin

U.S. Navy

USS California (CGN-36)View Profile

Chris Gable

U.S. Navy

USS California (CGN-36)View Profile

Photos

U.S. Army • 2005

Graduating from Communication Center Specialist School

U.S. Air Force • 1971

About USS California (CGN-36)

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• First of Her Name: USS California (CGN-36) was the lead ship of the California-class nuclear-powered guided missile cruisers, commissioned on February 16, 1974. • Nuclear Power: She was one of the first cruisers built with nuclear propulsion, allowing for greater speed and endurance compared to conventionally-powered ships. • Vietnam War Service: Although commissioned after the main conflict, USS California served in the Western Pacific and supported U.S. interests during the post-Vietnam era. • Middle East Deployments: USS California participated in multiple deployments to the Persian Gulf during periods of high tension, including Operation Earnest Will in the late 1980s. • Flagship Duties: The ship often served as the flagship for various commanders, including the Commander, Battle Group Charlie during her service. • Refueling and Overhaul: In 1990, USS California underwent a significant nuclear refueling and modernization at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, extending her service life. • State-of-the-Art Weapons: She was equipped with advanced weapons systems for her time, including Standard surface-to-air missiles, Harpoon anti-ship missiles, and ASROC anti-submarine rockets. • Humanitarian Missions: The ship provided disaster relief and humanitarian assistance after natural disasters, including support in the Philippines after volcanic eruptions. • Decommissioning: Despite her advanced design, USS California was decommissioned earlier than planned on July 9, 1999, due to the high cost of maintaining nuclear-powered surface ships. • Preserved Legacy: The ship’s bell and artifacts are preserved and displayed in museums and memorials, keeping the memory of USS California alive for future generations.