USS Enterprise

The USS Enterprise is the oldest aircraft carrier in the US fleet, having been launched in 1960. She was the first nuclear powered aircraft carrier in the world. Eight nuclear reactors supply her power and she is the only carrier with this configuration. USS Enterprise was meant to be the first of the Enterprise Class but she was the only one built. The navy may be downsizing the carrier fleet from 11 to 9. The Enterprise is scheduled for decommissioning in 2014 but this date is dependent on when her nuclear fuel supply is spent and when the USS Gerald Ford is completed. One nickname of the USS Enterprise is "The Big E." Sailors manning the rail as the USS Enterprise returns home to the Naval Station at Norfolk.