PSD Anacostia

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Branch

U.S. Navy

Members

About PSD Anacostia

**PSD Anacostia** (Presidential Support Detachment, Anacostia) was a specialized United States Navy unit based at Naval Support Facility Anacostia, Washington, D.C. Established during the Cold War era, its primary mission was to provide transportation, security, and logistical support for senior government and military officials, including the President and Vice President. The unit operated a fleet of helicopters and maintained a high state of readiness for rapid response to executive transport needs within the National Capital Region. Over time, its responsibilities and assets were integrated into larger commands such as the Naval Support Activity Washington and Marine Helicopter Squadron One (HMX-1), reflecting evolving support requirements for executive missions.

Unit Members

Harold Rote

U.S. Navy

PSD AnacostiaView Profile

Kerry Myers

U.S. Navy

PSD AnacostiaView 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 PSD Anacostia

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins and Name: PSD Anacostia stands for "Presidential Support Detachment Anacostia," originally stationed at Naval Support Facility Anacostia in Washington, D.C. • Mission: The unit’s primary mission was to provide transportation, security, and logistical support for the President of the United States and other senior government officials. • Helicopter Operations: PSD Anacostia operated VH-3D and VH-60N "White Top" helicopters, often seen transporting the President as "Marine One." • Inter-service Collaboration: The detachment was unique for its joint service composition, including personnel from the Navy, Marine Corps, and occasionally the Air Force. • Relocation: In 2010, as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process, NSF Anacostia merged into Joint Base Anacostia–Bolling, and PSD Anacostia’s operations shifted accordingly. • Secret Service Partnership: The unit regularly worked with the United States Secret Service, ensuring seamless security for presidential movements. • Historic Flights: PSD Anacostia played a role in many historic events, including the first helicopter transport of a sitting president, Dwight D. Eisenhower, in 1957. • VIP Transport: Besides the President, PSD Anacostia also transported foreign dignitaries, heads of state, and VIPs visiting the White House. • Special Training: Members of PSD Anacostia underwent rigorous security, aviation, and emergency preparedness training due to the high-profile nature of their missions. • Legacy: Even after its reorganization, PSD Anacostia's legacy continues in the elite units responsible for presidential airlift and security today.