VP-56

Patrol Squadron 56 (VP-56), known as the "Dragons," was a United States Navy maritime patrol squadron established in 1946. Originally flying PBM Mariners and later transitioning to P-2 Neptunes and P-3 Orions, VP-56 conducted anti-submarine warfare, maritime surveillance, and reconnaissance missions throughout the Cold War. The squadron was based primarily at NAS Jacksonville, Florida, and deployed to key locations in the Atlantic, Mediterranean, and Caribbean. VP-56 was disestablished on June 28, 1991, after decades of service contributing to U.S. naval operations worldwide.