USN

USS Joseph Strauss (DDG-16) was a Charles F. Adams-class guided missile destroyer commissioned into the United States Navy in 1963. Named after Admiral Joseph Strauss, the ship served prominently during the Vietnam War, providing naval gunfire support, plane guard duties for aircraft carriers, and participating in search and rescue operations. Throughout her career, USS Joseph Strauss operated extensively in the Pacific and Indian Oceans, supporting U.S. naval presence during the Cold War. After nearly three decades of service, she was decommissioned in 1990 and later transferred to the Hellenic Navy, where she served as Formion (D220) before being retired.

USS Mauna Kea (AE-22) was a Kilauea-class ammunition ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1960. Designed to transport and deliver ordnance to fleet units at sea, she played a vital logistic support role during the Vietnam War, conducting numerous underway replenishments to U.S. and allied vessels. Throughout her service, Mauna Kea participated in multiple operations in the Pacific and Indian Oceans, demonstrating the importance of at-sea resupply in modern naval warfare. Decommissioned in 1995, she was eventually struck from the Naval Vessel Register, marking the end of her 35 years of distinguished service.

USS Miller (FF-1091) was a Knox-class frigate of the United States Navy, commissioned in 1973 and named in honor of Doris Miller, the first African American to be awarded the Navy Cross. Initially classified as a destroyer escort (DE-1091), Miller was reclassified as a frigate (FF-1091) in 1975. During her service, she participated in numerous Atlantic and Mediterranean operations, focusing on anti-submarine warfare and escort duties during the Cold War. USS Miller served until 1991, when she was decommissioned and later transferred to Turkey, where she served as TCG Gaziantep (F 490).

USS Moosbrugger (DD-980) was a Spruance-class destroyer commissioned into the United States Navy on December 16, 1978. Named in honor of Vice Admiral Frederick Moosbrugger, a noted World War II destroyer commander, the ship specialized in anti-submarine warfare and served extensively in both the Atlantic and Mediterranean. Throughout her career, Moosbrugger participated in numerous multinational exercises, provided escort duties, and supported various operations, including deployments during the Gulf War era. After over two decades of service, USS Moosbrugger was decommissioned on December 15, 2000, and later sunk as a target during a training exercise in 2004.

USS Normandy (CG-60) is a Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser commissioned into the United States Navy in December 1989. Named after the Allied invasion of Normandy during World War II, the ship has played a vital role in U.S. naval operations, including participation in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, where it launched Tomahawk missiles against Iraqi targets. Over its service, USS Normandy has conducted numerous deployments supporting maritime security, anti-piracy efforts, and multinational exercises. The ship remains an integral asset to the Atlantic Fleet, demonstrating advanced air defense and surface warfare capabilities.

USS Paul F. Foster (DD-964) was a Spruance-class destroyer commissioned into the United States Navy on February 21, 1976. Named in honor of Vice Admiral Paul F. Foster, a Medal of Honor recipient, the ship served in numerous operations, including deployments to the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean, and Persian Gulf. Throughout its career, Paul F. Foster participated in key missions such as Operation Praying Mantis in 1988, where it engaged Iranian naval forces. After nearly three decades of service, the destroyer was decommissioned on March 27, 2003, and later repurposed as the Navy's Self Defense Test Ship.

USS Raleigh (LPD-1) was the lead ship of the Raleigh-class amphibious transport docks, commissioned into the United States Navy on 8 September 1962. Designed to support amphibious assault operations, Raleigh participated in several major exercises and deployments, including operations during the Vietnam War, where she transported Marines and equipment ashore. Throughout her service, she was involved in numerous training missions, humanitarian efforts, and multinational exercises, showcasing her versatility in both combat and non-combat scenarios. After over two decades of service, USS Raleigh was decommissioned on 13 December 1991.

USS Thomaston (LSD-28) was a Thomaston-class dock landing ship commissioned by the United States Navy in September 1954. Named after Thomaston, Maine, the vessel played a critical role in amphibious operations, including extensive service during the Vietnam War where she supported troop landings, transported equipment, and participated in riverine and coastal missions. Over her three decades of active service, USS Thomaston was involved in numerous training exercises and humanitarian missions across the Pacific and Indian Oceans. The ship was decommissioned in September 1984, leaving a legacy of versatility and dependable support to U.S. naval amphibious forces.

USS Wainwright (CG-28) was a Belknap-class guided missile cruiser commissioned into the United States Navy in 1966. Named after a distinguished family of naval officers, Wainwright served extensively during the Vietnam War, providing naval gunfire support and conducting search and rescue operations. Throughout the Cold War, the cruiser participated in numerous NATO exercises, Mediterranean deployments, and operations to project American naval power. USS Wainwright was decommissioned in 1993 after nearly three decades of service, leaving a legacy of versatility and dedication to national defense.

Attack Squadron 192 (VA-192), known as the "Golden Dragons," was established in 1945 as VF-153 and redesignated VA-192 in 1950. The squadron gained fame during the Korean War, flying AD Skyraiders from aircraft carriers and participating in major combat operations. VA-192 continued its service through the Vietnam War, transitioning to jet aircraft and conducting numerous strike missions. The unit was ultimately redesignated as VFA-192 in 1986, transitioning to the F/A-18 Hornet and continuing its distinguished service with the U.S. Navy.

Attack Squadron 86 (VA-86), known as the "Sidewinders," was established in 1955 by the United States Navy. Initially flying the FJ-3 Fury, the squadron later transitioned to the A-4 Skyhawk and then to the A-7 Corsair II, participating in major operations during the Vietnam War and the Gulf of Sidra incidents. VA-86 played a key role in enforcing U.S. policies during the Cold War, including deployments to the Mediterranean and support for operations in Lebanon and Libya. The squadron was disestablished in 1995 after four decades of distinguished service.

Electronic Attack Squadron 141 (VAQ-141), known as the "Shadowhawks," was established on July 1, 1987. Initially based at NAS Whidbey Island, the squadron operates the EA-18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft. VAQ-141 has participated in multiple major operations, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Southern Watch, and Operation Enduring Freedom, providing vital electronic attack and suppression of enemy air defenses. In 2012, VAQ-141 relocated to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, becoming the first forward-deployed Growler squadron in the Pacific, supporting U.S. and allied operations throughout the Indo-Pacific region.

Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 122 (VAW-122), known as the "Steeljaws," was established on April 1, 1967. The squadron operated the E-2 Hawkeye and provided airborne early warning and command and control for the U.S. Navy’s Atlantic Fleet. VAW-122 saw significant action during the Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, and supported various operations throughout the Cold War era. The unit was decommissioned on March 31, 1996, after nearly three decades of distinguished service.

VF-142, known as the "Ghostriders," was a distinguished United States Navy fighter squadron established in 1948. Initially equipped with F4U Corsairs, the squadron transitioned through several jet aircraft, including the F-4 Phantom II and later the F-14 Tomcat. VF-142 participated in major conflicts such as the Vietnam War and operations in the Persian Gulf, earning a reputation for excellence in air combat and fleet defense. The squadron was deactivated in April 1995 after nearly five decades of service.

VF-84, known as the "Jolly Rogers," was a renowned U.S. Navy fighter squadron established in 1955. Initially flying the FJ-3 Fury, the squadron later transitioned to the F-8 Crusader, F-4 Phantom II, and finally the F-14 Tomcat, gaining fame for their distinctive skull-and-crossbones insignia. VF-84 participated in numerous deployments, including combat operations during the Vietnam War and several Mediterranean cruises during the Cold War. The squadron was disestablished in 1995, but its legacy continues through its iconic imagery and the traditions carried on by successor units.

VF-92, known as the "Silver Kings," was a United States Navy fighter squadron established in March 1952. The unit operated various aircraft, including the F2H Banshee, F9F Panther, and later the F-4 Phantom II. VF-92 participated in numerous deployments, including significant combat operations during the Vietnam War, flying from aircraft carriers such as USS Constellation and USS Enterprise. The squadron was disestablished in January 1976, leaving a distinguished legacy in naval aviation history.

VS-30, also known as Sea Control Squadron 30, was a United States Navy anti-submarine warfare squadron established in 1943. Originally commissioned as Composite Squadron VC-30, it later became VS-30 and was nicknamed the "Diamond Cutters." Throughout its history, the squadron operated various aircraft, including the S-2 Tracker and later the S-3 Viking, specializing in maritime patrol and anti-submarine operations. VS-30 was based at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Florida, and participated in numerous deployments aboard aircraft carriers before being disestablished in 2007 as part of the Navy's transition away from the S-3 Viking platform.

Strike Fighter Squadron 22 (VT-22), known as the “Golden Eagles,” was originally established as Advanced Training Unit 212 (ATU-212) in June 1949 at Naval Air Station Corpus Christi, Texas. Over the decades, VT-22 has played a crucial role in training Navy and Marine Corps pilots in advanced strike fighter tactics, evolving through several aircraft types, including the T-28 Trojan, T-2 Buckeye, and currently the T-45C Goshawk. The squadron’s mission is to prepare student aviators for operational carrier-based strike fighter assignments. Throughout its history, VT-22 has been recognized for its exemplary safety record and contributions to naval aviation training.

Air Test and Evaluation Squadron One (VX-1), known as the "Pioneers," was established in 1942 at Naval Air Station Quonset Point, Rhode Island. Its original mission was to develop and evaluate airborne anti-submarine warfare (ASW) tactics and equipment for the U.S. Navy. Over the decades, VX-1 expanded its role to include operational testing and evaluation of a wide array of maritime patrol, reconnaissance, and warfare systems, including the P-3 Orion, P-8 Poseidon, and MH-60R/S Seahawk helicopters. Currently based at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, VX-1 continues to play a critical role in advancing naval aviation technology and ensuring fleet readiness.

Air Development Squadron Five (VX-5), known as the "Vampires," was established by the U.S. Navy on 18 June 1951 at Naval Air Station Moffett Field, California. Its primary mission was to conduct operational testing and evaluation of naval aviation weapons and tactics, ensuring new systems were effective and reliable for fleet use. In 1956, VX-5 relocated to Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, California, where it played a crucial role in the development of advanced weapons systems, including air-to-ground ordnance and electronic warfare tools. The squadron remained at the forefront of naval aviation innovation until 1993, when it merged with VX-4 to form Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Nine (VX-9).

Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Nine (VX-9), known as the "Vampires," was established in 1993 through the consolidation of the Naval Air Test Center Detachment (NATC Det) and Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Four (VX-4). Based at Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, California, VX-9’s mission is to conduct operational test and evaluation of U.S. Navy and Marine Corps tactical aircraft and weapons systems. The squadron has played a critical role in testing and validating the performance of platforms such as the F/A-18 Hornet, F-14 Tomcat, EA-18G Growler, and F-35C Lightning II. Through its rigorous evaluation processes, VX-9 ensures that new aircraft and weapons meet the demanding requirements of modern naval aviation.

The WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service) was a unit of the U.S. Navy established during World War II, on July 30, 1942. Created to free up male personnel for combat roles, the WAVES allowed women to serve in non-combat positions such as clerical work, aviation mechanics, and communications. By the end of the war, over 86,000 women had served as WAVES, making significant contributions to the Navy’s wartime operations. Their exemplary service paved the way for the permanent integration of women into the U.S. armed forces after the war.

The USS Sperry (AS-12) was a Fulton-class submarine tender commissioned into the United States Navy in 1942. Named after inventor Elmer Sperry, she provided vital repair, supply, and support services to submarines in the Pacific Theater throughout World War II, including during key operations at Pearl Harbor, Midway, and Guam. After the war, Sperry continued to serve during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, ensuring the operational readiness of the U.S. submarine fleet. Decommissioned in 1982, the USS Sperry earned multiple battle stars and commendations for her decades of dedicated service.

ASU Bahrain, or Area Support Unit Bahrain, serves as the primary U.S. Army support element in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Established to provide logistical, administrative, and operational support, ASU Bahrain plays a crucial role in sustaining U.S. Army and joint forces operating in the region. The unit supports missions related to security cooperation, regional stability, and contingency operations throughout the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility. Over the years, ASU Bahrain has contributed to strengthening U.S.-Bahraini military relations and ensuring the readiness and welfare of deployed personnel.