About this Unit
Patrol Squadron 62 (VP-62) was a U.S. Navy maritime patrol squadron established on 1 August 1942 during World War II. The squadron was initially based at NAS Alameda, California, flying the PBY Catalina seaplane on anti-submarine and maritime patrol missions. VP-62 was deployed to the Aleutian Islands, operating from bases such as Dutch Harbor and Adak, where it conducted reconnaissance and search operations against Japanese forces in the North Pacific. The squadron was disestablished on 21 June 1943 following the reduction of enemy activity in the Aleutians and the shifting strategic needs of the U.S. Navy.
Historical Facts
• Establishment: Patrol Squadron 62 (VP-62) was established on 1 May 1942, during World War II, as part of the U.S. Navy’s rapid expansion of maritime patrol aviation.
• Aircraft: The squadron initially operated the PBY-5A Catalina, a versatile amphibious seaplane famous for its long-range patrol and search-and-rescue capabilities.
• Aleutian Campaign: VP-62 was deployed to the Aleutian Islands, Alaska, where it played a critical role in anti-submarine and reconnaissance missions against Japanese forces.
• Harsh Conditions: The unit’s missions in Alaska exposed crews to some of the harshest weather faced by any Allied unit during WWII, including freezing temperatures, fog, and storms.
• Base Locations: VP-62 operated from various bases, including NAS Kodiak and NAF Dutch Harbor, which were vital outposts in the defense of North America’s northwest approaches.
• Combat Encounters: Squadron aircraft engaged in several skirmishes with Japanese submarines and aircraft, contributing to the defense of U.S. territory during the lesser-known Aleutian campaign.
• Rescue Missions: The squadron’s PBYs were involved in daring rescues of downed airmen and shipwreck survivors, exemplifying the “Cat” aircraft’s reputation as a “lifesaver.”
• Re-designations: Like many WWII squadrons, VP-62 underwent several re-designations and organizational changes as the Navy refined its patrol squadron structure.
• Disestablishment: VP-62 was disestablished on 21 July 1943, as part of a post-Aleutian campaign reorganization and the shifting of resources to other theaters.
• Legacy: While short-lived, VP-62’s contributions in the remote and challenging Aleutian theater demonstrated the strategic importance of maritime patrol aviation and the flexibility of PBY squadrons in WWII.
