About this Unit
Shore Intermediate Maintenance Activity (SIMA), Little Creek, was a critical U.S. Navy unit located at Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek in Virginia. Established to provide intermediate-level maintenance, repair, and logistics support, SIMA Little Creek primarily served the Atlantic Fleet’s amphibious and support vessels. Throughout its operational history, the unit played a vital role in ensuring fleet readiness, especially for ships homeported at Little Creek. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, as part of Navy restructuring efforts, SIMA Little Creek's functions were integrated into the Regional Maintenance Centers, marking the end of its independent operations.
Historical Facts
• Origins in WWII: SIMA Little Creek (Shore Intermediate Maintenance Activity, Little Creek) traces its roots to World War II, when the need for rapid repair of amphibious craft became vital for the U.S. Navy’s operations.
• Support to Amphibious Forces: The unit’s primary mission has always been to provide maintenance and repair support to the Atlantic Fleet Amphibious Forces, crucial for ensuring vessel readiness and mission success.
• Strategic Location: Located at Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek in Virginia Beach, Virginia, SIMA Little Creek sits at the world’s largest base dedicated to amphibious operations.
• Multi-Disciplinary Workforce: SIMA Little Creek employed a mix of military personnel, civil service employees, and contractors, bringing together a wide range of technical expertise in ship repair.
• 24/7 Operations: During periods of high operational tempo, particularly during conflicts such as Desert Storm, SIMA Little Creek operated around the clock to keep ships mission-ready.
• Not Just Ships: The unit also provided maintenance for landing craft, small boats, and shore equipment, encompassing everything from engines to electronics, making it a one-stop shop for amphibious support.
• Evolution and Reorganization: In 2004, SIMA Little Creek merged into the larger Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center (MARMC) as part of Navy efforts to streamline and modernize fleet maintenance.
• Community Involvement: Personnel from SIMA Little Creek were known for their community outreach, including sponsoring STEM programs and volunteering in the local Virginia Beach area.
• Innovative Repairs: SIMA Little Creek developed unique repair techniques for specialized amphibious craft, often fabricating custom parts on-site to keep vessels operational during deployments and exercises.
• Decorated Service: The unit and its personnel have received numerous commendations for outstanding performance, especially during critical operations like hurricane disaster relief and rapid wartime mobilizations.
