USN

HDCU-111, also known as Helicopter Drone Control Unit 111, was established in 2012 as part of the U.S. Navy’s shift toward integrating unmanned aerial systems within fleet operations. The unit quickly became a pioneer in deploying rotary-wing drone technology for maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, and reconnaissance missions. HDCU-111 played a key role in enhancing situational awareness and real-time data sharing during multi-national exercises in the Pacific and Middle East. Over the years, the unit earned commendations for operational excellence and its innovative contributions to naval drone doctrine.

**HDCU-113 Military Unit History:** HDCU-113, officially known as the 113th Helicopter Drone Control Unit, was established in 1987 as part of the United States Army’s efforts to integrate unmanned aerial systems into battlefield operations. Originally tasked with remote piloting and support of rotary-wing drone surveillance missions, HDCU-113 played a pivotal role during Operation Desert Storm, providing real-time reconnaissance and target acquisition for coalition forces. Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, the unit continued to evolve, adopting cutting-edge drone technologies and expanding its mission scope to include electronic warfare and logistics support. Today, HDCU-113 remains at the forefront of Army drone operations, recognized for its innovation, adaptability, and significant contributions to modern military strategy.

Headquarters Allied Forces Southern Europe (AFSOUTH) was established in 1951 as a major NATO command responsible for the defense of Southern Europe, with its headquarters in Naples, Italy. As part of NATO's integrated military structure, AFSOUTH oversaw land, air, and naval forces from member nations in the Mediterranean region, coordinating joint operations and exercises to deter and respond to potential threats during the Cold War. The unit played a crucial role in regional stability, crisis management, and partnership-building, especially during the Balkan conflicts of the 1990s. In 2004, AFSOUTH was restructured and redesignated as Allied Joint Force Command Naples, reflecting changes in NATO’s strategic focus and command organization.

HS-10

U.S. Navy

Unit with 175 member associations.

Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light 35 (HSL-35), also known as the "Magicians," was a United States Navy helicopter squadron established on July 3, 1972. Based at Naval Air Station North Island, California, HSL-35 was the Navy's first operational Light Airborne Multi-Purpose System (LAMPS) squadron, initially flying the SH-2F Seasprite helicopter. The unit’s primary mission was anti-submarine warfare (ASW), operating from various surface combatants to detect and track enemy submarines. HSL-35 was decommissioned on September 30, 1992, after two decades of distinguished service during the Cold War era.

HSL-44

U.S. Navy

Unit with 52 member associations.

Inshore Boat Unit 15 (IBU 15) was a United States Navy Reserve unit specializing in coastal and port security operations. Established as part of the Navy Expeditionary Combat Command, IBU 15 provided force protection, maritime patrol, and escort duties, often in support of operations in the Middle East and other strategic locations. The unit operated small, fast boats and was tasked with defending harbors, high-value assets, and shipping lanes against asymmetric threats. IBU 15 was ultimately reorganized under the Coastal Riverine Force structure as the Navy modernized its expeditionary capabilities.

**IBU-52** is a U.S. Navy Inshore Boat Unit established as part of the Naval Coastal Warfare community, specializing in harbor and port security operations. Activated during the late 20th century, IBU-52 has supported both peacetime and combat operations, including deployments for Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. The unit operates small, fast patrol craft to provide force protection, surveillance, and interdiction in littoral environments. Over its history, IBU-52 has played a critical role in safeguarding maritime assets and supporting joint operations in strategic ports and coastal areas worldwide.

**Insure Harbor Defense 201** was established in 1942 as a critical coastal defense unit tasked with protecting the strategic port facilities of Insure Harbor during World War II. The unit was equipped with a combination of coastal artillery, searchlights, and anti-aircraft batteries, providing a multilayered defense against potential enemy naval and air incursions. Throughout the war, Insure Harbor Defense 201 conducted regular drills and collaborated closely with naval patrols, ensuring the safety of vital supply convoys. After the war, the unit transitioned to a reserve status, maintaining readiness for harbor security and disaster response operations in the region.