About this Unit
Patrol Squadron 28 (VP-28), known as the "Hawaiian Warriors," was a U.S. Navy maritime patrol squadron established during World War II. Initially formed in 1943, VP-28 operated primarily in the Pacific Theater, conducting anti-submarine warfare, maritime reconnaissance, and search-and-rescue missions. The squadron played a vital role in post-war patrol operations during the Korean War and Cold War, operating aircraft such as the PBY Catalina, PB4Y-2 Privateer, and later the P-2 Neptune. VP-28 was finally disestablished in 1969, capping a distinguished record of service spanning more than two decades.
Historical Facts
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Origins: Patrol Squadron 28 (VP-28) was originally established as Patrol Squadron 828 (VP-828) on 1 July 1946, a reserve squadron based at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii.
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Redesignations: The squadron was redesignated multiple times: as VP-ML-58 in 1946, VP-898 in 1950, and finally as VP-28 in 1953.
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Korean War Service: During the Korean War, VP-28 was mobilized and played a significant role in maritime patrol and reconnaissance operations in the Pacific theater.
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Aircraft Evolution: VP-28 operated several aircraft types throughout its history, including the PB4Y-2 Privateer, P2V Neptune, and SP-5B Marlin seaplanes.
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Vietnam War Deployments: The squadron was deployed multiple times to Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War, providing anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and surveillance missions.
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Navy's Last Seaplane Squadron: VP-28 was among the last U.S. Navy squadrons to operate seaplanes, transitioning fully to land-based aircraft by the late 1960s.
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The "Hawaiian Warriors": The squadron adopted the nickname "Hawaiian Warriors," reflecting its long association with NAS Barbers Point and the Hawaiian Islands.
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Cuban Missile Crisis: In 1962, VP-28 played a role in the Cuban Missile Crisis, conducting patrols and surveillance in support of the U.S. naval blockade.
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Humanitarian Missions: Besides combat roles, VP-28 participated in search and rescue operations and humanitarian missions, notably in the Pacific region.
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Disestablishment: VP-28 was officially disestablished on 1 October 1969, marking the end of over two decades of distinguished service.