UNSC Absolution (CG-301) was a Marathon-class cruiser in service with the UNSC Navy during the Human-Covenant War. Commissioned in 2535, Absolution's long and illustrious naval career included several major and dozens of minor engagements, beginning with the Battle of Orchid IV in 2540 and later including the Battle of Miridem, Battle of Adrastos, and the Fall of New Carthage. After the latter, Absolution was reassigned from the Sixth Quick Reaction Fleet, relocated to Barrow, and instead joined the First Fleet at Earth. Having an informal, though famed and extensive relationship with the 28th Shock Troops Battalion, the ship was often home to the ODSTs and frequently saw them deploy to participate in operations against the Covenant. Absolution's service came to an end in late 2552 at the