USN

Attack Squadron 145 (VA-145), known as the "Swordsmen," was a United States Navy attack squadron established in 1949. The squadron operated a series of aircraft, including the A-1 Skyraider and later the A-6 Intruder, conducting attack missions from aircraft carriers. VA-145 saw extensive combat during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, providing close air support, interdiction, and strike missions. The unit was decommissioned in 1993, concluding over four decades of distinguished service.

Strike Fighter Squadron 27 (VFA-27), known as the "Royal Maces," is a United States Navy strike fighter squadron established in 1967. Originally designated Attack Squadron 27 (VA-27), the unit flew the A-7 Corsair II before transitioning to the F/A-18A Hornet in the 1990s and later to the advanced F/A-18E Super Hornet. VFA-27 is based at Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan, and is assigned to Carrier Air Wing 5 (CVW-5) aboard the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76). The squadron has participated in multiple major operations, including deployments supporting Operations Southern Watch, Enduring Freedom, and Freedom’s Sentinel, showcasing its enduring legacy of operational excellence in the Indo-Pacific region.

VAH-123, known as the "Professionals," was a U.S. Navy Heavy Attack Squadron established in June 1957 at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington. Its primary mission was to serve as a Fleet Replacement Squadron, training aircrews and maintenance personnel for the A-3 Skywarrior aircraft. Throughout its service, VAH-123 played a crucial role in preparing crews for heavy attack operations during the Cold War era. The squadron was disestablished on February 1, 1971, with its training responsibilities transferred to other units.

**USS Valdez (FF-1096)** was a Knox-class frigate of the United States Navy, named in honor of Hospitalman Phil Isadore Valdez, who was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross for his heroism during the Vietnam War. The vessel was laid down on October 30, 1972, at Todd Shipyards, Los Angeles, and commissioned on July 27, 1974. Designed primarily for anti-submarine warfare, the USS Valdez served extensively in the Atlantic Fleet, participating in numerous exercises and deployments, including NATO operations and Mediterranean patrols during the Cold War. The ship was decommissioned on December 31, 1991, and later transferred to the Turkish Navy, where she continued service under a new name.

VAQ-142, known as the "Gray Wolves," is a United States Navy electronic attack squadron established in 1988. Initially equipped with the EA-6B Prowler, the squadron provided tactical electronic warfare support, including radar jamming and electronic surveillance. After a brief deactivation in 1991, VAQ-142 was reestablished in 1994 and later transitioned to the advanced EA-18G Growler aircraft. The unit has participated in multiple deployments supporting Operations Southern Watch, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, earning a reputation for excellence in electronic warfare and fleet support.

Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 127 (VAW-127), nicknamed the "Seabats," was a United States Navy airborne early warning squadron established on September 2, 1983. The unit operated the E-2C Hawkeye aircraft, providing airborne surveillance, command and control, and battle management for carrier strike groups. VAW-127 was assigned to Carrier Air Wing 13 and deployed aboard the USS Coral Sea (CV-43), participating in key operations during the latter years of the Cold War. The squadron was deactivated on September 30, 1991, as part of post-Cold War reductions in naval forces.

VF-162, known as the "Hunters," was a United States Navy fighter squadron established in 1960. The squadron operated primarily from aircraft carriers in the Pacific Fleet, flying the F-8 Crusader fighter jet. VF-162 saw extensive combat during the Vietnam War, participating in multiple deployments to Southeast Asia and earning several commendations for its performance. The squadron was disestablished in 1971, having contributed significantly to naval air operations during its decade of service.

Fighter Squadron 43 (VF-43), known as the "Challengers," was a United States Navy adversary squadron established in 1945. Over its history, the squadron underwent several redesignations and operated a variety of aircraft, including the F-4 Phantom II, A-4 Skyhawk, and F-16N Fighting Falcon. VF-43’s primary mission became providing air combat training for fleet units, simulating enemy tactics as part of the Navy’s adversary program. The squadron was based at Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia until its disestablishment in July 1994.

Strike Fighter Squadron 204 (VFA-204), known as the "River Rattlers," is a United States Navy Reserve squadron established in 1970. Originally designated as VA-204 and flying the A-4 Skyhawk, the squadron later transitioned to the A-7 Corsair II and was redesignated as VFA-204 in 1991 upon receiving the F/A-18 Hornet. VFA-204 has participated in numerous training exercises, fleet support missions, and carrier qualifications, serving as an essential adversary and readiness squadron for both active and reserve components. Based at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans, the River Rattlers have earned a reputation for professionalism and excellence in naval aviation.