VetFriends Members: 3,064,780

 
JOIN NOW

History of Marine Detachment USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67)

The Marine Detachment (MarDet) aboard USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67) was established to provide shipboard security, ceremonial functions, and support for the ship's mission as a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier. Activated with the commissioning of the carrier in 1968, the detachment consisted of a small group of U.S. Marines trained in both infantry and naval operations. Throughout its service, the Marine Detachment participated in security details, manned key posts, and contributed to various operations during deployments to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Middle East. The detachment was deactivated in the late 1990s as part of a Navy-wide restructuring that phased out permanently assigned Marine units on aircraft carriers.

Members

Load More

Gallery

More Unit Photos

ABOUT Marine Detachment USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67)

  • Unique Detachment Role: The Marine Detachment (MARDET) aboard the USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67) was responsible for ship security, ceremonial duties, and manning the ship’s brig, continuing a tradition dating back to the Age of Sail.
  • First Deployment: The MARDET joined the John F. Kennedy for its maiden deployment in 1969, providing security and force protection during the ship’s initial operations in the Mediterranean.
  • Operation Desert Storm: Marines aboard CV-67 participated in Operation Desert Storm (1991), providing critical security during air operations against Iraq and supporting the ship’s mission in the Red Sea and Persian Gulf.
  • Presidential Namesake: The detachment’s ceremonial duties were especially significant, as the carrier was named for President John F. Kennedy—a Marine Corps supporter and World War II Navy veteran.
  • Cross-Training: Marines on the JFK received cross-training in firefighting, damage control, and flight deck safety, making them an integral part of the ship’s emergency response teams.
  • Historic Port Visits: The MARDET participated in numerous historic port visits, including stops in Naples, Istanbul, and Haifa, representing the U.S. Marine Corps in diplomatic missions.
  • Deactivation: The Marine Detachment was deactivated in 1998, as part of a Navy-wide decision to phase out shipboard Marine detachments on aircraft carriers due to changing security needs.
  • Notable Commanders: Several former JFK MARDET officers later rose to high ranks in the Marine Corps, citing their unique shipboard experience as influential in their careers.
  • Life at Sea: Marines aboard the JFK lived and worked alongside sailors, but maintained their own traditions, uniforms, and leadership, reinforcing the Corps’ distinct identity within the Navy.
  • Lasting Legacy: Former members of the JFK MARDET remain active in veterans’ organizations and reunions, preserving the history and camaraderie of their unique military service.

Marine Corps Best Sellers

Go To Store