The world’s first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier – Enterprise (CVN 65) – is leaving Newport News Shipbuilding for the final time, bound for dismantlement. Explore this photo gallery of CVN 65 through the years.

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CVN 65 was christened at NNS on Sept. 24, 1960.

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CVN 65 is moved to an NNS pier following its christening ceremony in September 1960.

 

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CVN 65 departs NNS for sea trials in October 1961.

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An aerial bow view of CVN 65 while underway in 1978.

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Sailors onboard the CVN 65 spell out “E=MC2 x 40” on the flight deck to mark 40 years of nuclear-powered service as the ship returns from deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2001.

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CVN 65 arrives at NNS for nuclear defueling in June 2013.

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CVN 65 beside USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) in July 2014.

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CVN 65 with Independence Day fireworks in the background.

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CVN 65 stands watch over a colorful sunset while docked at NNS in 2018.

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CVN 65 docked beside John F. Kennedy (CVN 79).

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CVN 65 leaving Dry Dock 12 at NNS in 2022.