VP-674

• VP-674 was a U.S. Navy Reserve Patrol Squadron: Established during the Korean War era, VP-674 was one of several reserve patrol squadrons activated to augment the regular Navy's capabilities. • Established in 1951: VP-674 was officially established on 1 March 1951, at NAS New York, Floyd Bennett Field, as Cold War tensions increased. • Primary Mission: The squadron’s main mission was anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and maritime patrol, reflecting concerns over potential Soviet submarine activity off the U.S. East Coast. • Aircraft Operated: VP-674 was equipped primarily with the PBY-5A Catalina and later transitioned to the Lockheed P2V Neptune, both legendary maritime patrol aircraft. • Reserve Component: VP-674 was part of the Naval Air Reserve, which played a critical role in reinforcing the regular Navy during national emergencies. • Training and Integration: The squadron participated in regular training exercises with the Atlantic Fleet, integrating reserve crews with active-duty units to maintain readiness. • Reorganization: In February 1953, VP-674 was redesignated as VP-834, reflecting a Navy-wide reorganization of reserve patrol squadrons. • Disestablishment: The squadron was ultimately disestablished on 1 February 1953, as part of a reduction of reserve forces after the Korean War. • Legacy: VP-674 and similar squadrons helped set the stage for the modern Naval Air Reserve Force, proving the value of reserve aviation in national defense. • Floyd Bennett Field Heritage: The squadron’s home base, Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn, is now a national historic site and was a major hub for Navy reserve aviation during the post-WWII era.