USN

USS Hewitt (DD-966) was a Spruance-class destroyer commissioned into the United States Navy on 25 September 1976. Named after Admiral H. Kent Hewitt, the ship served extensively in the Pacific, participating in numerous exercises and deployments, including operations in the Persian Gulf during the Iran-Iraq War and Operation Desert Storm. Hewitt was recognized for her anti-submarine warfare capabilities and frequently operated alongside carrier battle groups. After over two decades of service, USS Hewitt was decommissioned on 25 July 2001 and later sunk as a target in 2005.

USS Minn-St.Paul

U.S. Navy

**USS Minn-St. Paul** is a fictional military unit, as there has been no commissioned ship with this exact name in the history of the United States Navy. However, drawing inspiration from historical naming conventions (such as USS Minneapolis and USS Saint Paul), a ship named USS Minn-St. Paul would likely honor the twin cities of Minnesota. If such a vessel existed, it may have served as a cruiser or a modern littoral combat ship, participating in key naval operations and representing the Midwest in fleet actions. Its service could include deployments in major conflicts, humanitarian missions, and joint exercises with allied navies, contributing to maritime security and national defense. The ship’s legacy would reflect the proud tradition of Midwestern service to the U.S. Navy.

USS Preble (DDG-46) was a Farragut-class guided missile destroyer commissioned into the United States Navy on May 9, 1960. Named after Commodore Edward Preble, a hero of the First Barbary War, the ship served prominently during the Cold War era. Preble participated in various operations, including deployments to the Mediterranean with the 6th Fleet and support missions during the Vietnam War. After over two decades of service, USS Preble was decommissioned on November 15, 1991, and later struck from the Naval Vessel Register.

USS Princeton (LPH-5) was originally commissioned as an Essex-class aircraft carrier during World War II in 1945. After serving in the late stages of the war and in the Korean War, she was converted to an amphibious assault ship (LPH) in 1959, specializing in helicopter operations. As an amphibious assault ship, Princeton played a significant role in the early years of U.S. helicopter-borne warfare, including critical operations during the Vietnam War, such as troop deployments and evacuations. USS Princeton was decommissioned in 1970, concluding a distinguished career marked by adaptability and service across multiple conflicts.

USS Richard E. Byrd (DDG-23) was a Charles F. Adams-class guided missile destroyer commissioned into the United States Navy on March 7, 1964. Named after the famed polar explorer Rear Admiral Richard E. Byrd, the ship served during the Cold War era, conducting operations in the Atlantic, Mediterranean, and Caribbean. She participated in numerous NATO exercises, showed presence during the Lebanon crisis of 1983, and provided naval gunfire support and escort duties. After nearly three decades of service, USS Richard E. Byrd was decommissioned on April 27, 1990, and later scrapped.

Attack Squadron 46 (VA-46), known as the "Clansmen," was established by the United States Navy on September 24, 1955. The squadron initially flew the F9F-5 Panther and later transitioned to various attack aircraft, including the A-4 Skyhawk and the A-7 Corsair II. VA-46 saw combat during the Vietnam War and participated in Operation El Dorado Canyon, the 1986 air strike against Libya. The Clansmen were also active during Operation Desert Storm in 1991 before being disestablished on June 30, 1991.

Attack Squadron 52 (VA-52), known as the "Knight Riders," was a distinguished attack squadron of the United States Navy. Established in 1950, VA-52 served aboard numerous aircraft carriers, flying a variety of aircraft including the A-1 Skyraider, A-6 Intruder, and others. The squadron saw extensive combat service during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, delivering both conventional and electronic warfare capabilities. VA-52 was decommissioned in 1995 after over four decades of service, leaving a legacy of operational excellence and dedication.

Electronic Attack Squadron 135 (VAQ-135), also known as the "Black Ravens," was established in 1969. Originally flying the EKA-3B Skywarrior, the squadron transitioned to the EA-6B Prowler in 1973, becoming a key asset in electronic warfare and suppression of enemy air defenses. VAQ-135 has participated in numerous operations, including Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, providing critical electronic attack and jamming support. Today, the squadron operates the EA-18G Growler and continues to serve as a vital component of U.S. Navy carrier air wings.

Patrol Squadron 23 (VP-23), known as the "Seahawks," 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 convoy escort missions in the Atlantic and later the Pacific Theater. Over the decades, VP-23 transitioned to newer aircraft, including the P-3 Orion, and participated in Cold War surveillance and maritime patrol operations. The squadron was based at Naval Air Station Brunswick, Maine, until its disestablishment in 1994.