12. USS Enterprise (CVN-65)
Commissioned in 1961, the USS Enterprise (CVN-65) was the world’s first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, serving for over 50 years. Nicknamed the ‘Big E,’ she participated in significant events such as the Cuban Missile Crisis, multiple deployments during the Vietnam War, and Operation Desert Storm. Her long service set a benchmark for modern naval engineering. Naval History and Heritage Command offers insights.
