A Nimitz-class supercarrier launched in 1980 and commissioned in 1982, Carl Vinson calls San Diego her home port. She has participated in many cruises and support missions around the world, deploying frequently to the Middle East and Pacific. There are no plans for her decommissioning at any point in the future.
Over her career, Carl Vinson has been involved in the following missions and operations:
Participated in RIMPAC
Stayed in the Indian Ocean for 107 days until WESTPAC deployment
Supported Operation Earnest Will
PACEX 1989, which was the largest naval exercise during peacetime since the second World War
Operation Desert Strike
Exercise Rugged Nautilus
Operation Desert Fox and Southern Watch
Operation Enduring Freedom
Operation Iraqi Freedom
Meritorious Unit Commendation
Admiral James H. Flatley Memorial Award, three times
Battle “E” Award
Featured in the PBS documentary, Carrier
Afghan Campaign Medal
Marjorie Sterrett Battleship Fund Award
Carl Vinson has played roles in popular culture including:
Aircrew and planes featured in the film Top Gun
Appeared in the opening scene for the film, The Presidio, as well as the films Stealth and Behind Enemy Lines
The Flight Simulator from Microsoft