Season 1, Episode 2: An aircraft carrier is a perilous environment.

Season 1, Episode 1: Five-thousand sailors and Marines bid farewell to their loved ones before the mammoth USS Nimitz pulls out of California.

A six-month absence places a heavy burden on relationships. The Navy holds seminars to counsel sailors on what to expect when they return home - and how to make the transition smooth. The "Tiger Cruise" ritual allows sailors to invite their family members aboard for the last leg of the deployment. This program contains explicit language. Viewer discretion is advised.

As the Nimitz makes its final transit from Hawaii to California, the sailors and Marines on board prepare to return to their homes and families. For those still on board, the "Tiger Cruise" provides a buffer, but there's no such transition for those who fly home early from Hawaii. As the Nimitz returns to her home port of San Diego, sailors and Marines reflect on the deployment and take stock of what they've achieved. Was the mission accomplished? There are tearful, joyful reunions at the pier. This program contains explicit language. Viewer discretion is advised.

The last day in the Gulf before the Nimitz heads home. The jets take off, laden with ordnance, and return hours later, still carrying the same bombs. As the Nimitz crosses the equator, the entire ship takes part in the Crossing the Line Ceremony, an ancient maritime ritual. In the middle of flight operations, a storm arises in the South Indian Ocean. The deck pitches violently, turning the already dangerous task of landing on the carrier into a nail-biting, heart-pounding drama. This program contains explicit language. Viewer discretion is advised.

Season 1: A preview of PBS' upcoming series CARRIER.