RB
7th FleetUSNVF-211USS Constellation

Robert Bridgewater

U.S. Navy Veteran

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About

Current City

Los Lunas, NM

Birthday

December 3, 1958

Branch

U.S. Navy

Service Years

1976 - 1981

Units

7th Fleet

U.S. Navy

The 7th Fleet is a fleet of the United States Navy based in the Pacific Ocean. It is the largest of the U.S. Navy's forward-deployed fleets and is responsible for conducting naval operations in support of U.S. national interests in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. The fleet is headquartered in Yokosuka, Japan and consists of over 60 ships, 300 aircraft, and 40,000 Navy and Marine Corps personnel. The 7th Fleet plays a critical role in promoting stability and security in the region through exercises, patrols, and partnerships with allied nations.

1977 - 1981
USN insignia

USN

U.S. Navy

The USN stands for the United States Navy, which is the naval warfare branch of the United States Armed Forces. It is responsible for conducting operations at sea, on land, and in the air to protect and defend the United States and its interests. The USN operates a vast fleet of ships, submarines, and aircraft to carry out its missions around the world. It plays a crucial role in maintaining national security and projecting American power globally.

1976 - 1981

VF-211

U.S. Navy

Strike Fighter Squadron 211 (VF-211), known as the "Fighting Checkmates," was originally established in 1945 as VF-24 before being redesignated as VF-211 in 1948. The squadron distinguished itself during the Korean War and the Vietnam War, flying F-8 Crusaders and later F-14 Tomcats in combat operations from aircraft carriers. Over its history, VF-211 earned numerous commendations for its combat effectiveness and professionalism. In 2003, the unit was redesignated as VFA-211 and transitioned to the F/A-18F Super Hornet, continuing its legacy as a premier carrier-based strike fighter squadron in the U.S. Navy.

1977 - 1981
USS Constellation insignia

USS Constellation

U.S. Navy

The USS Constellation was a wooden-hulled, three-masted frigate of the United States Navy. It was launched in 1797 and served in both the Quasi-War and the Barbary Wars. The ship is often considered one of the earliest frigates built for the US Navy and played a significant role in protecting American merchant vessels from attacks by pirates and privateers. The USS Constellation has since been preserved as a museum ship in Baltimore, Maryland, where visitors can learn about its history and tour the decks.

1977 - 1979