About this Unit
Patrol Squadron 721 (VP-721) was a United States Navy Reserve patrol squadron established during the post-World War II era. It was commissioned on 1 November 1946 as part of the Naval Air Reserve Force, operating primarily from NAS Glenview, Illinois. VP-721 flew maritime patrol missions using aircraft such as the PBY Catalina and later the PV-2 Harpoon, focusing on anti-submarine warfare and coastal reconnaissance training. The squadron was redesignated as VP-ML-71 in 1947 and eventually disestablished as part of postwar reserve reductions.
Historical Facts
• Origins in WWII: VP-721 was established as a Naval Reserve Patrol Squadron shortly after World War II, reflecting the U.S. Navy’s need to maintain a strong reserve aviation force in the postwar era.
• Redesignation: The squadron was redesignated as VP-721 on 1 November 1946, as part of a larger effort to reorganize and standardize Naval Air Reserve units.
• Based in Massachusetts: VP-721 was originally based at Naval Air Station Squantum, Massachusetts, a major hub for reserve aviation training and operations in the postwar period.
• PBY Catalina Operations: The squadron flew the iconic PBY Catalina flying boat, which had been a workhorse during WWII for patrol, search and rescue, and anti-submarine warfare missions.
• Transition to P4Y-2 Privateer: VP-721 later transitioned to operating the Consolidated P4Y-2 Privateer, an advanced patrol bomber derived from the B-24 Liberator, reflecting the squadron’s evolving mission capabilities.
• Cold War Role: During the early Cold War, VP-721’s primary mission included maritime patrol, anti-submarine warfare, and training reservists for potential mobilization.
• Reserve Integration: The squadron was part of the broader Naval Air Reserve structure, designed to provide rapid mobilization capability in the event of national emergency.
• Deactivation: VP-721 was deactivated on 1 February 1950 as part of a reduction in reserve forces and consolidation of patrol squadrons during peacetime budget cuts.
• Legacy: Although short-lived, VP-721 contributed to the training of hundreds of Naval Aviators and aircrew, many of whom would serve in the Korean War and later conflicts.
• Historical Documentation: The history of VP-721 is preserved in U.S. Navy archives and commemorated by naval aviation historians, ensuring its role in post-WWII naval aviation is not forgotten.
