USS South Carolina (CGN-37)

USS South Carolina (CGN-37) was a California-class nuclear-powered guided missile cruiser commissioned into the United States Navy in January 1975. Designed for anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare, she served as a multi-role escort for aircraft carrier battle groups during the Cold War. South Carolina participated in numerous deployments, including operations in the Mediterranean, North Atlantic, and the Persian Gulf, supporting U.S. interests and NATO allies. After over two decades of service, the cruiser was decommissioned in July 1999 and later scrapped as part of the Navy's reduction of its nuclear cruiser fleet.