The USS Midway was commissioned on September 10, 1945. Named for the Battle of Midway, the carrier was the lead ship of her class, ultimately serving her country for 47 years. More than 2000,000 American veterans served aboard her. After being the first aircraft carrier "forward deployed" for 17 years in Yokosuka, Japan, she returned to North Island Naval Air Station in San Diego for decommissioning in April 1992. USS MidwayTopic Menu (Click on topic to view below, click on Top of Page after topic to return here) USS Midway / Slideshow / Midway Today / 1975 Det Video USS Midway History The USS Midway literally was a "City at Sea," carrying a crew of 4,500, up to 70 aircraft and weighing more than 67,000 tons, fully loaded. When operating at sea, the USS Midway was refueled every three days. She burned approximately 1000,000 gallons a day. In over five decades of service, she received the Presidential Unit Citation; Navy Unit Commendation; U.S. Navy & Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal; Navy Occupation Service Medal; China Service Expeditionary Medal; and Vietnam Service Medal. On 25 August 1975, VMFP-3 commenced a WESTPAC Detachment rotation cycle to the USS Midway and Iwakuni, Japan, in support of III Marine Amphibious Force. This ongoing cycle involved five aircrew, approximately five ground officers, and over 100 enlisted Marines in one year TAD overseas WESTPAC deployments. Slideshow of the USS Midway 60 Photographs - USS Midway Today -Sgt. Steve Bautz- "VMFP-3" A few years back, my wife and I moved to San Diego. While out there, I did some volunteer work at Miramar prepping some of the old jets for the museum. Also, I had the opportunity to get back on the Midway, even before it was open to the public. I put in a few hours a week helping to get her ready for the Grand opening. I was transfered back to the East coast before the opening, but made a trip back, and did the full tour of the ship. I recommend to anyone who served on her, to go back and check it out. The first deep breath will bring back all the familiar smells and memories. www.midway.org 1975 Det Video Take a trip back on board the USS Midway with VMFP-3 as filmed by Msgt Dave Herbert (USMC Retired) during his tour of duty in 1975-1976 Det III. You can view his video on Youtube by clicking the link below. Dave is selling copies of this video if you are interested e-mail him at: NiteFlyr@Hickorytech.ne Trouble viewing it here? See it on YouTube (View It Now) Recommended Screen Resolution 1024 x 768 Enable pop-ups to fully enjoy this site. This website is not affiliated with the U.S. Government or the United States Marine Corps in any way. This website is a copyright and the property of the Phabulous Phantom Productions and the information and photos gathered for this website are intended for the purpose of providing un-official information and entertainment for those interested in the history of Marine Corps RF-4B Squadrons and the RF-4B Phantom II aircraft.