About this Unit
NAVADVGRP, short for Naval Advisory Group, was a United States Navy unit established during the Vietnam War to provide crucial support to the Republic of Vietnam Navy (RVNN). Formed in the early 1960s, NAVADVGRP's mission was to advise, train, and assist South Vietnamese naval forces in riverine, coastal, and maritime operations against North Vietnamese and Viet Cong forces. The unit played a significant role in implementing the "Vietnamization" policy, gradually transferring operational responsibilities to the RVNN. Throughout its existence, NAVADVGRP contributed to enhancing the combat effectiveness and self-sufficiency of South Vietnam’s navy until the withdrawal of U.S. forces and the end of American involvement in 1973.
Historical Facts
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Full Name: NAVADVGRP stands for Naval Advisory Group, a term often used for U.S. Navy or allied units tasked with advising and assisting foreign naval forces, especially during the Cold War and Vietnam War.
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Vietnam War Origins: The U.S. NAVADVGRP was most notably active in Vietnam, where it oversaw naval advisory roles, training the South Vietnamese Navy (VNN) in riverine and coastal operations.
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SEAL Team Advisors: Many members of NAVADVGRP included U.S. Navy SEALs and special warfare personnel, who helped train and conduct joint operations with Vietnamese commandos.
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Motto: The group’s unofficial motto was "Advise, Assist, and Accompany," reflecting its mission to work side-by-side with host nation forces.
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Brown Water Navy Legacy: NAVADVGRP played a critical role in developing the "Brown Water Navy" strategy, using patrol boats and swift boats to interdict enemy supply lines in rivers and coastal waters.
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Operation Market Time: NAVADVGRP advisors were instrumental in Operation Market Time, a coordinated naval campaign to block seaborne infiltration by North Vietnamese forces.
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Language and Cultural Training: Advisors received intensive language and cultural training to better integrate with their Vietnamese counterparts, fostering trust and operational effectiveness.
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Decorations: Many NAVADVGRP members received high U.S. and South Vietnamese decorations for bravery and service, including the Bronze Star and Vietnamese Navy Gallantry Cross.
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Transition to VNN: In the 1970s, NAVADVGRP managed the transfer of U.S. Navy ships and equipment to the South Vietnamese Navy, dramatically expanding its capabilities before U.S. withdrawal.
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Enduring Influence: The NAVADVGRP’s advisory model has influenced modern U.S. naval advisory and foreign internal defense missions, including current efforts to build partner naval capacity worldwide.
