James Welch

The United States Naval Academy (USNA), established in 1845 in Annapolis, Maryland, serves as the undergraduate college for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. Founded during a period of naval reform, the Academy was created to provide rigorous academic and military training to future naval officers. Throughout its history, USNA graduates have played vital roles in every major American conflict, from the Civil War to modern-day operations. Renowned for its traditions, honor code, and leadership development, the Naval Academy remains a cornerstone in shaping the Navy and Marine Corps’ leadership.

NAVFAC Grand Turk was a United States Navy Sound Surveillance System (SOSUS) facility established on Grand Turk Island in the Turks and Caicos Islands during the early years of the Cold War. Commissioned in 1954, its primary mission was to detect and track Soviet submarines in the Atlantic Ocean using underwater listening technology. The facility played a significant role in anti-submarine warfare and intelligence gathering throughout the Cold War era. NAVFAC Grand Turk was decommissioned in 1980 as advances in technology and changing strategic needs led to the consolidation of SOSUS operations.

Commander, U.S. Naval Activities, United Kingdom (COMNAVACTUK), London, England, served as a key administrative and operational command for the United States Navy in the United Kingdom during the Cold War and into the late 20th century. Established to coordinate U.S. naval interests, logistics, and support in the region, COMNAVACTUK played a vital role in fostering Anglo-American naval cooperation and providing support for U.S. ships and personnel operating in European waters. The command managed multiple subordinate activities, including naval facilities, housing, and communication sites throughout the UK. COMNAVACTUK was eventually disestablished in the 1990s following post-Cold War realignment and reductions in U.S. overseas military presence.

Patrol Squadron 22 (VP-22), known as the "Blue Geese," was a U.S. Navy maritime patrol squadron established in 1943 during World War II. Initially flying the PB4Y-1 Liberator, the squadron conducted anti-submarine warfare, reconnaissance, and search-and-rescue missions in the Pacific Theater. Over the decades, VP-22 operated various aircraft, including the P2V Neptune and P-3 Orion, and participated in significant Cold War operations, as well as the Vietnam War. The squadron was based at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii for much of its service before its deactivation in March 1994.

The Naval Postgraduate School (NPS), located in Monterey, California, was established in 1909 as the School of Marine Engineering at the U.S. Naval Academy. In 1951, it relocated to its current campus, taking over the former Hotel Del Monte, to better serve the advanced education needs of Navy officers. Over the decades, NPS has grown into a premier graduate research university, providing advanced degrees in engineering, science, and national security to U.S. military officers and international allies. Its interdisciplinary programs and research have significantly contributed to the technological and strategic advancement of the U.S. Navy and the broader Department of Defense.

Patrol Squadron 31 (VP-31) was a U.S. Navy Fleet Replacement Squadron established on 30 June 1960 at Naval Air Station (NAS) North Island, California. Its primary mission was to train crews and maintenance personnel for patrol squadrons operating the P-2 Neptune, P-3 Orion, and other maritime patrol aircraft. VP-31 played a crucial role in preparing new aircrews for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and maritime reconnaissance missions throughout the Cold War and beyond. The squadron was disestablished on 1 November 1993 as part of Navy post-Cold War drawdowns.

Patrol Squadron 19 (VP-19), nicknamed the "Big Red," was a U.S. Navy maritime patrol squadron established in 1946. Throughout the Cold War, VP-19 operated various patrol aircraft, including the P-2 Neptune and P-3 Orion, conducting anti-submarine warfare, reconnaissance, and surveillance missions in the Pacific and around the world. The squadron played significant roles in the Korean and Vietnam Wars, providing vital maritime patrol and intelligence support. VP-19 was decommissioned in 1991 after decades of distinguished service.