Core Viewpoint - The USS Nimitz aircraft carrier is set to return to its home base in Washington after completing its final deployment, with plans for decommissioning by May 2024 [1][3]. Deployment and Operations - During its deployment, the Nimitz carrier's Carrier Air Wing 17 participated in operations against ISIS in Somalia, completing over 8,500 aircraft launches and landings [3]. - The carrier has made stops in Malaysia, Bahrain, Oman, and the UAE during its mission [3]. Historical Significance - The USS Nimitz was commissioned on May 3, 1975, and has participated in several Middle Eastern conflicts, including the Iran hostage rescue attempt in 1980, the Iraq War in 1990 and 2004, operations against Al-Qaeda in Afghanistan in 2001, and strikes against ISIS in Syria in 2014 [3]. Future Plans - The Nimitz is scheduled to leave its home base in early 2024, taking a route around South America due to its size, and is expected to arrive at Norfolk Naval Base by May 2026 [3]. - Upon decommissioning, the Nimitz will undergo nuclear fuel removal and disposal, with plans for its reactor compartment to be sent to a strategic storage facility, as no current method exists to convert nuclear-powered vessels into museum ships without contamination risks [3]. - The USS John F. Kennedy is expected to be officially commissioned next year, taking over the Nimitz's position in the fleet [3].