About this Unit
Patrol Squadron 23 (VP-23), known as the "Seahawks," was a U.S. Navy maritime patrol squadron established in 1943 during World War II. Initially flying the PB4Y-1 Liberator, the squadron conducted anti-submarine warfare, reconnaissance, and convoy escort missions in the Atlantic and later the Pacific Theater. Over the decades, VP-23 transitioned to newer aircraft, including the P-3 Orion, and participated in Cold War surveillance and maritime patrol operations. The squadron was based at Naval Air Station Brunswick, Maine, until its disestablishment in 1994.
Historical Facts
• Long Heritage: Patrol Squadron 23 (VP-23), also known as the “Seahawks,” was originally established in 1943, serving for over five decades before its disestablishment in 1995.
• Multiple Redesignations: The squadron underwent several redesignations, originally established as VP-23, then redesignated as VPB-23 (Patrol Bombing Squadron), VP-MS-3, VP-23 again, and so on, reflecting changing roles and Navy naming conventions.
• World War II Service: During WWII, VP-23 played a crucial role in anti-submarine warfare and reconnaissance missions, operating across the Pacific theater, including the Solomon Islands and the Philippines.
• PB4Y-2 Privateer Operations: The squadron was one of the first to operate the Consolidated PB4Y-2 Privateer, a long-range patrol bomber used for maritime patrol, anti-shipping, and search-and-rescue missions.
• Cold War Role: During the Cold War, VP-23 was heavily involved in anti-submarine warfare, tracking Soviet submarines in the Atlantic and Mediterranean using the P-2 Neptune and later the P-3 Orion.
• Cuban Missile Crisis: In 1962, VP-23 played a significant role in the Cuban Missile Crisis by conducting surveillance flights to monitor Soviet shipping and missile activity around Cuba.
• Home Base: For much of its later history, VP-23 was based at Naval Air Station Brunswick, Maine, becoming an integral part of the local community and the Navy’s Atlantic patrol squadrons.
• Humanitarian Missions: Beyond combat, VP-23 participated in search-and-rescue operations and humanitarian missions, including disaster relief and assistance to vessels in distress.
• Aircraft Evolution: VP-23 flew several notable aircraft types, including the PBY Catalina, PB4Y-2 Privateer, P2V Neptune, and the P-3 Orion, reflecting the evolution of maritime patrol technology.
• Disestablishment and Legacy: VP-23 was officially disestablished on 28 February 1995 as part of post-Cold War drawdowns, but its legacy lives on through its veterans and contributions to naval aviation history.
