USS Gerald R. Ford Now Docked in Norfolk After Longest Deployment Since Vietnam
The USS Gerald R. Ford has returned to Norfolk, Virginia, after an 11-month deployment, marking the longest for an American aircraft carrier since the Vietnam War. During its deployment, the ship was involved in significant military operations, including the ousting of Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro. The crew is now reunited with their families after a challenging period at sea, which included a noncombat-related fire that caused disruptions aboard the ship.
- ▪The USS Gerald R. Ford is the most advanced U.S. warship and has returned home after an 11-month deployment.
- ▪This deployment is the longest for an American aircraft carrier since the Vietnam War.
- ▪The ship participated in military operations against Venezuela and Iran during its time at sea.
- ▪The crew faced challenges, including a fire that left hundreds without sleeping quarters while docked in Crete.
- ▪Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth praised the crew for their historic accomplishments.
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USS Gerald R. Ford Now Docked in Norfolk After Longest Deployment Since Vietnam By Ward Clark | 1:18 PM on May 16, 2026 The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of RedState.com. U.S. Navy photo via AP Long deployments are hard on our service members, and now the USS Gerald R. Ford, the mightiest warship in human history, has returned to its home port of Norfolk, Virginia, after an 11-month deployment. That's the longest deployment by an American aircraft carrier since the Vietnam War.
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