vp 65

• Establishment: Patrol Squadron 65 (VP-65) was established on 1 November 1970 as a Naval Air Reserve squadron at Naval Air Station Point Mugu, California. • Nickname: The squadron was known as the "Tridents," a name symbolizing maritime strength and their anti-submarine warfare mission. • Aircraft Types: VP-65 flew several aircraft over its history, including the SP-2H Neptune and later the P-3A, P-3B, and P-3C Orion maritime patrol aircraft. • Cold War Role: VP-65 played a vital role in anti-submarine warfare (ASW) during the Cold War, monitoring Soviet submarine activity in the Pacific. • Reserve Integration: As a reserve squadron, VP-65 integrated closely with active-duty units, demonstrating the effectiveness of the "Total Force" concept in the U.S. Navy. • Operational Deployments: The squadron conducted numerous deployments throughout the Pacific, including missions to Hawaii, Alaska, Japan, and Guam. • Drug Interdiction: In the 1980s and 1990s, VP-65 participated in drug interdiction missions, often operating from bases in Central and South America. • Humanitarian Missions: The squadron took part in search and rescue operations and disaster relief, showcasing the multi-mission capability of maritime patrol squadrons. • Tail Code: VP-65’s distinctive tail code was "YC," which marked its aircraft throughout its operational history. • Deactivation: VP-65 was disestablished on 31 March 2006 during a broader reorganization of Naval Air Reserve squadrons, marking the end of 36 years of service.