Nuclear Aircraft Carrier ex-USS Enterprise Departs for Dismantling

The U.S. Navy confirmed that the former aircraft carrier USS Enterprise has begun its final voyage bound for dismantling in Mobile, Alabama. The world’s first nuclear aircraft carrier, she was decommissioned a decade ago after a career that spanned 55 years.

Commissioned in 1961, Enterprise was known by her sailors as “Big E” and is considered a technological milestone in naval history, laying the groundwork for the modern U.S. Navy. She played a central role in U.S. naval operations during the Cold War, Vietnam War, and post-9/11 conflicts in the Middle East but also demonstrated the use of nuclear power and taught the Navy operations for a large nuclear carrier.

“Enterprise will always be remembered for her proud legacy of service, a legacy made possible by the sailors and support personnel whose dedication kept her mission-ready,” said Kevin Cormier, Deputy Portfolio Acquisition Executive Maritime for Aircraft Carriers. “All who served aboard and sustained this historic ship should take pride in the vital role they played in supporting the fleet. Their dedication ensured that Enterprise remained a lasting example of naval excellence. Fair winds and following seas.”

12:15 hrs Eastern the USS Enterprise CVN-65 the first nuclear aircraft carrier has been decommisioned in the Newport News Shipyard and is outbound for sea heading to Mobile, Alabama. My dad fueled her and my oldest brother defueled her. #cvn65 #ussenterprise #BigE #NewportNewsShipyard #HuntingtonIngalls

This story was originally published by The Maritime Executive. Read the full story at The Maritime Executive →