About this Unit
The Marine Detachment (MARDET) aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) was established to provide security, ceremonial functions, and support for the ship’s operations following her commissioning in 1982. Marines assigned to the detachment were responsible for internal security, nuclear weapons security (prior to the removal of nuclear weapons from aircraft carriers), and manning ship’s weapons during general quarters. The MARDET also participated in protocol and honors duties, representing the Marine Corps during foreign port visits and official ceremonies. The unit was disbanded in the late 1990s as part of a Navy-wide decision to eliminate permanent Marine Detachments from aircraft carriers.
Historical Facts
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Namesake Legacy: USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) is named after Congressman Carl Vinson, known as the "Father of the Two-Ocean Navy" for his crucial role in expanding and modernizing the U.S. Navy before and during WWII.
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Marine Detachment (MARDET) Role: The Marine Detachment aboard Carl Vinson provided ship security, ceremonial duties, and participated in boarding operations, upholding the tradition of Marine presence on capital ships.
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Historic Launch: The USS Carl Vinson was launched on March 15, 1980, and commissioned on March 13, 1982, as the third Nimitz-class aircraft carrier in the U.S. Navy.
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Global War on Terror: After the 9/11 attacks, Carl Vinson played a key role in launching airstrikes against Taliban and Al Qaeda targets in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom. MARDET Marines contributed to force protection and security.
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Osama bin Laden Burial: In May 2011, USS Carl Vinson was the ship where Osama bin Laden’s body was buried at sea, following his death during Operation Neptune Spear.
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Humanitarian Missions: Carl Vinson and its crew, including the Marine Detachment, participated in Operation Unified Assistance in 2004, providing aid and relief to tsunami-stricken areas in Southeast Asia.
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Presidential Presence: In 2011, President Barack Obama commemorated Veterans Day aboard the Carl Vinson, becoming the first sitting president to visit the ship.
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Marine Ceremonial Duties: MARDET Marines have performed countless color guard ceremonies and rifle salutes for distinguished visitors and during burial at sea ceremonies.
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MARDET Deactivation: The traditional Marine detachments aboard aircraft carriers, including Carl Vinson, were deactivated in the late 1990s as security roles shifted to other Navy forces.
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Hollywood Connection: The USS Carl Vinson has appeared in films, documentaries, and TV shows, and its crew—including Marines—were featured in the news during major operations and humanitarian missions.