The Marine Detachment 9MARDET) consisted of 55 enlisted men and two officers. The Marines operated the Brig and guarded access to Special Weapons (nuclear weapons).
Acting as the ship’s police force, the Marines were the only armed members of the crew and would be called upon by the ship’s Captain to quell incidents of disorder and mutiny.
Marines also carried out any ceremonial functions, including daily “colors” and “manning the rail” when entering and exiting a foreign port. Marine posts were manned 24 hours a day.
