Every carrier has its own CSG or CVBG, but they don't always work with the same vessels. A group's makeup can change as ships return to port for crew relief, maintenance, or a myriad of reasons, but they typically are replaced with vessels of the same type. Carrier Strike Group 3 was associated with the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) and its support ships. These included the since-decommissioned USS Mobile Bay (CG-53) and Destroyer Squadron 21.

Destroyer Squadron 21 consists of the USS Milius (DDG 69), the USS Decatur (DDG 73), the USS Kidd (DDG 100), the USS Dewey (DDG 105), and the USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108). Each of these ships provides a different level of support ranging from a variety of missile offensive and defensive capabilities. Destroyers come in different configurations, and Destroyer Squadron 21 is outfitted with guided-missile destroyers.

A guided-missile destroyer is used to provide anti-aircraft defenses for the fleet, but they also provide offensive capabilities, depending on the type of munitions in their stores. In terms of personnel, the Navy keeps its exact numbers classified, but it's possible to determine an estimate based on the standard complement for the vessels in a CSG. Conservatively, CVN-72 houses 5,000 personnel, while an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile cruiser houses around 300-360 crew. Put them all together and a typical CSG consists of some 7,500 sailors.