The USS Nimitz, the oldest aircraft carrier in the world, docked at Naval Base Kitsap in Bremerton, Washington, this past Tuesday. This visit is intended to be its final trip to this homeport before its decommissioning.
USS Nimitz’s Historic Journey
Commissioned in 1975, the Nimitz has a service life of over 50 years. It is slated to return to Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, for decommissioning in 2026. The carrier recently completed a nine-month deployment that began on March 21, encompassing operations with the U.S. 3rd, 5th, and 7th Fleets.
Deployment Achievements
During its final deployment, the USS Nimitz traveled across two-thirds of the globe, according to Rear Adm. Fred Goldhammer, commander of Carrier Strike Group 11. He expressed the significance of the Nimitz Strike Group’s contributions to global peace and security.
Key Statistics from the Deployment
- 8,500 sorties completed
- 17,000 flight hours logged
- 50 replenishments-at-sea
- Over 82,000 nautical miles sailed
In the Indo-Pacific Command area, the Nimitz operated for three months, and it spent nearly four months supporting U.S. Central Command. The carrier played a vital role in facilitating the Iran-Israel ceasefire and targeting Islamic State positions in Somalia.
Notable Milestones in USS Nimitz’s History
The USS Nimitz is recognized as the flagship of the ten Nimitz-class nuclear aircraft carriers. It bears the name of Fleet Adm. Chester W. Nimitz, a key figure in the U.S. Pacific Fleet during World War II. Its notable deployments include:
- First deployment to the Mediterranean on July 7, 1976.
- Participation in Operation Evening Light in the early 1980s to rescue U.S. hostages in Iran.
- Support of Operation Desert Storm in 1991.
- Longest deployment since the Vietnam War during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, lasting 341 days.
After various relocations, the Nimitz found its home at Naval Base Kitsap, having previously served at Naval Station Norfolk, Naval Air Station North Island in California, and Everett, Washington.
Looking Ahead: The Future of USS Nimitz
As the USS Nimitz approaches its retirement, it leaves behind a legacy of service and contributions to U.S. military operations around the globe. The upcoming decommissioning in 2026 marks the end of an era for the historic vessel.
