Yep...back then imagine...we had several squadrons of those Mach 2+ nuclear bombers parked on carrier decks around the world where they could cruise right up close and launch at you with very little warning if it came to it.
But, the SSBN nuclear subs accomplished the same thing with even more megatons delievered much faster, and even much harder to find.
Now with the 14 Ohio class SSBNs and their multiple warhead missiles...and our proven accuracy and technology (as opposed to the very faulty Soviet and Russian stuff) we have many many times more capability.
So the carriers understandably went back to tactical missions and duties as opposed to strategic strike missions.
One description I read said the A-5 “pooped” the nuke out the back of the airplane. And, sometimes, there was a “draft effect” with other weapons that canceled it’s accuracy.
Oh Jeff, after such a long hard struggle with your health you made it to your daughter’s wedding!
So very happy you had such a wonderful trip.
God Bless