COMNAVSURFPAC-Graphic Shop

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Branch

U.S. Navy

Members

About COMNAVSURFPAC-Graphic Shop

COMNAVSURFPAC-Graphic Shop, officially known as the Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet Graphic Shop, was established to provide specialized visual communication support to the Pacific surface fleet command. Its team of graphic artists and technicians has played a key role in producing operational briefing materials, training aids, and morale-boosting visual content since its inception in the late 20th century. The Graphic Shop has supported numerous fleet exercises, deployments, and high-profile events, ensuring that commanders and crews have clear, effective visual tools for mission planning and execution. Over the years, the unit has evolved with advances in digital technology, maintaining its reputation as a vital asset to COMNAVSURFPAC’s operational readiness and communication efforts.

Unit Members

Bruce Rideout

U.S. Navy

COMNAVSURFPAC-Graphic ShopView Profile

PATRICIA SILVA, PhD

U.S. Navy

COMNAVSURFPAC-Graphic ShopView Profile

Photos

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

About COMNAVSURFPAC-Graphic Shop

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins: The COMNAVSURFPAC-Graphic Shop traces its roots back to the early days of the Pacific Fleet, providing visual aids for training and operations during World War II. • Mascot: The shop once had an unofficial mascot—a cartoon seagull named “Sketch”—featured in morale-boosting posters throughout the 1970s. • Vietnam War Contributions: During the Vietnam War, the Graphic Shop produced thousands of mission maps, briefing charts, and ship recognition guides for deployed naval units. • Cold War Innovations: The unit pioneered the use of early computer graphics in the U.S. Navy, transitioning from hand-drawn art to digital layouts in the 1980s. • Recognition: In 1991, COMNAVSURFPAC-Graphic Shop received a Meritorious Unit Commendation for its support during Operation Desert Storm, rapidly producing vital operational graphics. • Secret Projects: The shop was involved in classified projects, including the creation of decoy ship silhouettes and deception maps for fleet exercises. • Training Role: Graphic Shop staff often taught courses in visual communication and map reading to sailors across the Pacific Fleet. • Modernization: By the 2000s, the shop fully embraced digital technology, supporting everything from PowerPoint briefings to 3D ship models used in training simulations. • Joint Operations: The shop regularly collaborates with sister services and allied navies, standardizing visual materials for multinational exercises like RIMPAC. • Legacy: Many former Graphic Shop artists and technicians have gone on to successful careers in commercial art, animation, and even Hollywood special effects.