About this Unit
Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 30 (VRC-30), known as the "Providers," was established in 1966 to provide Carrier Onboard Delivery (COD) services to the U.S. Navy’s Pacific Fleet. Operating the Grumman C-2A Greyhound aircraft, VRC-30 played a critical role in transporting personnel, mail, and high-priority cargo between shore bases and aircraft carriers at sea. The squadron supported multiple combat and humanitarian operations, including during the Vietnam War, Operations Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom. After more than five decades of distinguished service, VRC-30 was deactivated in 2023 as the Navy transitioned to the CMV-22B Osprey for COD missions.
Historical Facts
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Establishment: VRC-30, known as the "Providers," was established on 1 October 1966, originally as Fleet Tactical Support Squadron Thirty (VR-30), before being redesignated as VRC-30 in 1976.
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C-2A Greyhound: The squadron is renowned for operating the Grumman C-2A Greyhound, a carrier onboard delivery (COD) aircraft, providing vital logistics and personnel transport to aircraft carriers.
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Support in Vietnam: During the Vietnam War, VRC-30 played a key role in transporting critical supplies, mail, and personnel between shore bases and aircraft carriers operating in the combat zone.
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Worldwide Operations: VRC-30 has supported nearly every major U.S. Navy operation since its inception, including Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom.
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Record-Setting Missions: The squadron has set multiple records, including flying more than 41,000 flight hours and delivering over 120 million pounds of cargo during its service.
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Home Base: VRC-30 is based at Naval Air Station North Island, San Diego, California, supporting Pacific Fleet carrier strike groups.
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Tail Code "ND": The squadron’s aircraft are easily identifiable by their "ND" tail code, a symbol recognized throughout the Navy’s aviation community.
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Detachment Structure: VRC-30 operated through several detachments, each assigned to specific carrier strike groups, ensuring constant COD support wherever carriers deploy.
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Distinguished Unit Awards: VRC-30 has earned numerous awards, including the Meritorious Unit Commendation and the Navy Unit Commendation, for its outstanding service and safety record.
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Deactivation: After more than five decades of service, VRC-30 was deactivated on 8 December 2023, as the Navy transitions its COD mission to the CMV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft.
