About this Unit
**Antarctic Support Activities W/O 66-67** was a specialized U.S. Navy unit tasked with supporting scientific research and operations in Antarctica during the 1966–1967 austral summer. Operating under the broader framework of Operation Deep Freeze, the unit provided vital logistical, transportation, and engineering assistance to the United States Antarctic Program. Personnel facilitated the resupply of remote research stations, managed air and sea operations, and ensured the safety of scientists working in extreme polar conditions. Their efforts contributed significantly to the success of American scientific endeavors on the continent during a pivotal period of Cold War-era exploration and collaboration.
Historical Facts
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Origins and Mission: The Antarctic Support Activities (ASA) was a U.S. Navy unit established to provide operational and logistical support to American scientific missions in Antarctica, primarily under Operation Deep Freeze.
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Operation Deep Freeze: During the winter-over period of 1966-1967 (W/O 66-67), ASA was instrumental in supporting Operation Deep Freeze, which enabled continuous scientific research at McMurdo Station and other Antarctic outposts.
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Winter-Over Challenges: Personnel who "wintered over" at Antarctica, including ASA members, faced months of total darkness, extreme cold (often below -60°F), and complete isolation from the rest of the world.
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McMurdo Station Hub: ASA's main base of operations was McMurdo Station on Ross Island, which served as the logistical hub for U.S. Antarctic activities and hosted winter-over crews.
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Historic Achievement: The 1966-67 winter-over crew maintained critical communications, power, and life-support systems, ensuring the survival and continued operation of the station during the harsh Antarctic winter.
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International Collaboration: ASA's work facilitated cooperation with other nations' Antarctic programs, enabling joint scientific projects and emergency support between U.S., New Zealand, and other international teams.
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Unique Distinctions: Members of the 1966-67 winter-over team were awarded the Antarctica Service Medal for their service in one of the world's most remote and hostile environments.
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Stories of Survival: ASA personnel often recounted stories of ingenuity and resourcefulness, such as improvising repairs to vital equipment or inventing games and activities to stave off "polar madness" during months of isolation.
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Scientific Support: ASA's logistical efforts enabled groundbreaking studies in glaciology, meteorology, earth sciences, and biology, some of which contributed to our understanding of global weather patterns and climate.
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Legacy: The 1966-67 winter-over period is remembered for its contributions to Antarctic exploration and for setting standards in polar logistics and survival, influencing future U.S. operations on the continent.
