About this Unit
USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) is a Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier commissioned into the United States Navy on March 13, 1982. Named after Congressman Carl Vinson, a key supporter of American naval power, the ship has played a significant role in major operations, including Operation Desert Strike, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom. The Vinson made global headlines in May 2011 as the vessel from which Osama bin Laden’s body was buried at sea after his death in a U.S. special operations raid. Throughout its service, the USS Carl Vinson has projected American naval air power worldwide, supporting both combat missions and humanitarian assistance.
Historical Facts
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Namesake Significance: USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) is named after Carl Vinson, a U.S. Congressman from Georgia who served over 50 years and was known as "The Father of the Two-Ocean Navy" for his role in expanding the Navy before WWII.
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Commissioning: The supercarrier was commissioned on March 13, 1982, at Newport News Shipbuilding, Virginia, as the third Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier.
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Operation Enduring Freedom: In 2001, USS Carl Vinson launched some of the first airstrikes into Afghanistan in response to the September 11 attacks, playing a pivotal role in Operation Enduring Freedom.
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Osama bin Laden Burial: After the death of Osama bin Laden in 2011, his body was transported to USS Carl Vinson and buried at sea in a secret ceremony according to Islamic traditions.
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Historic Homeport Shift: In January 2010, Carl Vinson changed its homeport from Norfolk, Virginia, to San Diego, California, symbolizing the Navy’s increasing focus on the Pacific.
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Film Appearances: The carrier has featured in several movies and TV shows, including "Behind Enemy Lines" (2001) and "NCIS," showcasing its iconic flight deck and crew.
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Humanitarian Mission: In 2010, Carl Vinson was among the first U.S. military assets to provide aid after the devastating Haiti earthquake, delivering supplies and medical assistance.
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First F-35C Deployment: In 2021, USS Carl Vinson became the first carrier to deploy with the F-35C Lightning II, the Navy’s newest stealth fighter, marking a new era in naval aviation.
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Largest Floating Memorial: The ship houses a memorial corridor with artifacts and displays honoring Carl Vinson’s legacy and the ship’s own history.
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Presidential Visit: In April 2017, President Donald Trump visited USS Carl Vinson, underscoring the ship’s role in U.S. power projection during heightened tensions with North Korea.
