Steven Barker

The USS Saratoga was a United States Navy aircraft carrier that served during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. It was named after the Battle of Saratoga, a key American victory during the Revolutionary War. The ship was commissioned in 1956 and remained in active service until 1994 when it was decommissioned. The USS Saratoga was eventually sunk as a target during a naval training exercise in 1998.

VF-31, also known as the "Tomcatters," is one of the oldest active U.S. Navy fighter squadrons, originally established in 1935. The squadron participated in World War II, flying the F6F Hellcat, and later saw action in Korea, Vietnam, and the Gulf War with various aircraft, including the F-4 Phantom and the iconic F-14 Tomcat. VF-31 gained distinction for its combat achievements and for being the last squadron to fly the F-14 Tomcat before transitioning to the F/A-18E Super Hornet in 2006. Today, as VFA-31, the Tomcatters continue their legacy as a premier strike fighter squadron in the U.S. Navy.

The Navy Reserves is a part-time branch of the United States Navy that allows individuals to serve on a part-time basis while maintaining a civilian career. Reservists train one weekend a month and two weeks a year, and can be called to active duty in times of need. They play a vital role in providing support to the active duty Navy in areas such as combat operations, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief. The Navy Reserves provide a valuable supplement to the Navy's overall capabilities and readiness.