USN

Patrol Squadron 46 (VP-46), known as the “Grey Knights,” is one of the oldest maritime patrol squadrons in the U.S. Navy, established in July 1931. Originally formed as Patrol Squadron 5-S (VP-5S), the unit has undergone several redesignations and has participated in significant operations, including World War II, the Cold War, and the Global War on Terrorism. Throughout its history, VP-46 has operated various aircraft, from the PBY Catalina to the P-3 Orion, and currently flies the P-8A Poseidon, conducting anti-submarine warfare, reconnaissance, and maritime patrol missions. The squadron has earned numerous unit commendations for its distinguished service and continues to play a critical role in safeguarding U.S. maritime interests worldwide.

Patrol Squadron 56 (VP-56), known as the "Dragons," was a United States Navy maritime patrol squadron established in 1946. Originally flying PBM Mariners and later transitioning to P-2 Neptunes and P-3 Orions, VP-56 conducted anti-submarine warfare, maritime surveillance, and reconnaissance missions throughout the Cold War. The squadron was based primarily at NAS Jacksonville, Florida, and deployed to key locations in the Atlantic, Mediterranean, and Caribbean. VP-56 was disestablished on June 28, 1991, after decades of service contributing to U.S. naval operations worldwide.

Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Fuels), often abbreviated as ABF, is a vital U.S. Navy rating established during World War II to support the growing demands of aircraft carrier operations. ABFs are responsible for fueling and defueling aircraft, maintaining fuel systems, and ensuring the safe handling and storage of aviation fuels aboard ships and shore installations. Their expertise has been crucial in every major conflict since WWII, enabling sustained air operations from carriers during the Korean, Vietnam, Gulf, and more recent conflicts. Over the decades, ABFs have adapted to advances in aviation technology, continually upholding rigorous safety and operational standards to support naval air power worldwide.

Helicopter Attack (Light) Squadron Three (HA(L)-3), also known as the "Seawolves," was a unique United States Navy helicopter gunship squadron established on 1 April 1967 during the Vietnam War. Tasked primarily with supporting the Navy's riverine operations, HA(L)-3 provided crucial close air support, medical evacuations, and armed reconnaissance for the Mobile Riverine Force and SEAL teams operating in the Mekong Delta. The squadron operated UH-1B and UH-1C "Huey" helicopters, heavily armed for attack missions in the challenging riverine and jungle environment. HA(L)-3 became the most decorated Navy squadron of the Vietnam War before being disestablished on 16 March 1972.

Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) at NAS Coronado was a key component of the U.S. Navy’s rotary-wing anti-submarine warfare capabilities. Established during the Cold War, HSL squadrons operated SH-2 Seasprite and later SH-60B Seahawk helicopters, providing surface fleet support from the strategically vital Naval Air Station North Island in Coronado, California. These squadrons played a crucial role in maritime patrol, anti-surface warfare, search and rescue, and logistical support missions. Their operations contributed significantly to the Navy’s readiness and power projection in the Pacific and beyond until HSL units were reorganized into Helicopter Maritime Strike (HSM) squadrons in the mid-2000s.

Naval Hospital Guam was established in 1899, following the U.S. acquisition of Guam after the Spanish-American War, making it one of the oldest continuously operating U.S. naval hospitals in the Pacific. During World War II, the hospital played a critical role in treating thousands of American and Allied casualties following the liberation of Guam in 1944. Over the decades, it has provided vital medical support during regional conflicts, humanitarian missions, and natural disasters throughout the Pacific. Today, Naval Hospital Guam remains a key facility for the U.S. Navy, supporting service members, their families, and the local population.

NAVCOMMSTA Nea Makri, Greece, officially known as U.S. Naval Communications Station, Nea Makri, was established in the early 1950s as part of the United States’ efforts to enhance communications capabilities in the eastern Mediterranean during the Cold War. Located about 25 kilometers northeast of Athens, the station provided critical communications support to the U.S. Sixth Fleet and NATO operations in the region. It served as a key node for secure naval communications, cryptographic operations, and high-frequency radio transmissions. The station was operational until its closure in 1991, when shifting strategic priorities and advances in communications technology led to the consolidation of U.S. Navy facilities in Europe.

USS Berkeley (DDG-15) was a Charles F. Adams-class guided missile destroyer commissioned by the United States Navy on December 15, 1962. Named in honor of Admiral William Frederick Durand Berkeley, the ship served prominently during the Vietnam War, providing naval gunfire support and participating in search and rescue operations. Throughout her service, USS Berkeley also conducted numerous deployments in the Western Pacific and Indian Oceans, taking part in fleet exercises and strengthening U.S. alliances. Decommissioned in 1992, the ship was later transferred to Greece, where she served as Themistoklis (D221).

USS Jouett (CG-29) was a Belknap-class guided missile cruiser commissioned into the United States Navy in December 1966. Originally designated as a destroyer leader (DLG-29), she was reclassified as a cruiser (CG-29) in 1975. Throughout her service, Jouett participated in numerous deployments to the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean, supporting operations during the Vietnam War and later Cold War missions. After nearly three decades of distinguished service, USS Jouett was decommissioned in January 1994 and subsequently sunk as a target during fleet training exercises in 2007.