Uss Simon Lake AS33 ( Marine Detachment )

• Commissioning and Namesake: USS Simon Lake (AS-33) was commissioned on 7 November 1964 and named after Simon Lake, a pioneer in submarine design. • Marine Detachment Role: The Marine Detachment (MarDet) aboard provided security, ceremonial duties, and supported shipboard discipline, a tradition on many larger U.S. Navy ships until the 1990s. • Cold War Service: Simon Lake played a critical role during the Cold War, providing tending and repair services to Polaris and Poseidon missile submarines, ensuring continuous nuclear deterrence. • Homeports Abroad: The ship spent significant periods in Holy Loch, Scotland, and Rota, Spain, providing vital support to U.S. and NATO submarine forces in the Atlantic and Mediterranean. • Marine Detachment Ceremonial Duties: The MarDet participated in numerous change-of-command ceremonies, ship tours, and diplomatic visits, often serving as a visible symbol of American military presence overseas. • Emergency Response: On several occasions, the Marine Detachment was called upon to provide security during emergencies, such as submarine accidents or security alerts at foreign ports. • Integration with Submarine Crews: Marines often trained with submarine crews for emergency scenarios, such as repelling boarders or handling unauthorized access to sensitive areas. • Decommissioning and Legacy: USS Simon Lake was decommissioned on 31 July 1999. The Marine Detachment, like others in the fleet, was disbanded as the Navy phased out shipboard Marine units. • Medals and Recognitions: The ship and her crew, including the MarDet, received multiple awards including the Navy E Ribbon and Meritorious Unit Commendation for their service. • Veteran Reunions: Former crew members, including Marines, hold regular reunions and maintain active associations, preserving the legacy and camaraderie formed aboard USS Simon Lake.