About this Unit
NAVCONSTA Cheltenham, short for Naval Communications Station Cheltenham, was a key United States Navy communications facility located in Cheltenham, Maryland. Established during World War II, the station played a vital role in processing and relaying classified naval communications, supporting operations across the Atlantic and beyond. Throughout the Cold War, NAVCONSTA Cheltenham remained an important hub for secure message traffic, cryptographic work, and technical training. The facility was eventually decommissioned in the 1990s as communications technology advanced and operations were consolidated at other commands.
Historical Facts
•
Origins in WWII: NAVCONSTA Cheltenham, short for Naval Communications Station Cheltenham, was established in 1942 during World War II as a vital U.S. Navy communications hub in Cheltenham, Maryland.
•
Communications Hub: The station played a crucial role in relaying secure communications between the Pentagon, the White House, and the U.S. fleet worldwide, especially during the Cold War.
•
Cryptologic Operations: NAVCONSTA Cheltenham supported key cryptologic and signals intelligence operations, working closely with the Naval Security Group and the National Security Agency (NSA).
•
Women in Uniform: During WWII, WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service) personnel were stationed at Cheltenham, contributing to codebreaking and communications work.
•
Cuban Missile Crisis: The station was a key node in U.S. Navy communications during the Cuban Missile Crisis, ensuring rapid, secure transmission of critical information.
•
Vietnam War Support: Cheltenham provided direct communication support for naval operations throughout the Vietnam War, relaying messages between command centers and ships at sea.
•
Technology Evolution: The station saw a transition from Morse code and teletype systems to advanced digital communications over its operational lifetime.
•
Decommissioning: NAVCONSTA Cheltenham was officially decommissioned in 1997, with many of its missions transferred to other Navy and Department of Defense facilities.
•
Legacy Facility: Today, the former site is known as the Naval Support Facility (NSF) Cheltenham, housing various Navy and federal law enforcement training and administrative operations.
•
Community Impact: The station fostered close ties with the local Maryland community, hosting events and supporting military families for over five decades.
