USS Nimitz (CVN 68) Fun Facts

As the lead ship in the Nimitz-class of aircraft carriers USS Nimitz (CVN 68) has the unique distinction of not being named after an elected official. In fact, USS Nimitz only uses the surname of her namesake, Chester W. Nimitz, unlike all other carriers in her class.

To help celebrate her birthday, here are some fun facts about the ship:

Nickname: Old Salt

Motto: Teamwork, a tradition

Badge:

Displacement: 100,000 long tons

Length: 1,092 feet

Height: Over 18 stories high from the keel to the top of the mast

Commissioned: May 3, 1975, at Pier 12, Naval Station Norfolk, VA. by the Honorable Gerald R. Ford, President of the United States

May 03, 2012

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For over 70 years, U.S. Navy aircraft carriers have been vital to defending America. They have been employed in every major and many smaller conflicts including Vietnam; Grenada and Lebanon; Libya; Operation Desert Storm; and most recently in Afghanistan and Iraq.

The U.S. carrier is a very modern, very mobile U.S. military base complete with airfield, hospital and communications systems from which the United States can strike at its enemies, making them a cornerstone of America’s ability to project its power and strength.

Here, we’ll share behind-the-scenes photos and videos about America's aircraft carriers, as well as keep you abreast of all things carrier.