USN

USS **John Rodgers (DD-983)** was a Spruance-class destroyer commissioned into the United States Navy in 1979. Named after three generations of distinguished naval officers, the ship served with distinction during the Cold War, participating in numerous exercises and deployments, including operations in the Mediterranean and Persian Gulf. In 1991, she supported Operation Desert Storm, providing escort and naval gunfire support. After over two decades of active service, USS John Rodgers was decommissioned in 1998 and later sunk as a target in 2001.

USS *Kawishiwi* (AO-146) was a Neosho-class fleet oiler commissioned by the United States Navy in 1955. Throughout her service, she played a crucial role in refueling and replenishing ships at sea, primarily supporting the U.S. Pacific Fleet during the Cold War. The *Kawishiwi* participated in operations during the Vietnam War, ensuring sustained naval presence and combat readiness through underway replenishment missions. After more than three decades of service, she was decommissioned in 1986, marking the end of her vital logistical contributions to naval operations.

USS Lockwood (FF-1064) was a Knox-class frigate commissioned by the United States Navy in 1971. Named after Vice Admiral Charles A. Lockwood, a prominent submarine commander during World War II, the ship was primarily tasked with anti-submarine warfare and escort duties during the Cold War. Throughout her service, Lockwood participated in numerous exercises and deployments, including operations in the Pacific and Indian Oceans, as well as supporting US interests in the Western Pacific. After more than two decades of service, USS Lockwood was decommissioned in 1992 and subsequently transferred to the Turkish Navy, where she served as TCG Karadeniz (F-255).

USS Marvin Shields (FF-1066) was a Knox-class frigate commissioned by the United States Navy in 1971, named in honor of Medal of Honor recipient Construction Mechanic Marvin Glenn Shields. Throughout her service, Marvin Shields operated primarily in the Pacific and Indian Oceans, participating in anti-submarine warfare exercises, escort missions, and multinational operations. The frigate played a significant role during the Cold War, supporting U.S. interests and conducting patrols near Asia and the Middle East. Decommissioned in 1992, Marvin Shields was later transferred to the Mexican Navy, where she served as ARM Abasolo (F-21).

USS McCandless (FF-1084) was a Knox-class frigate of the United States Navy, commissioned in 1972 and named in honor of Rear Admiral Byron McCandless and his son, Rear Admiral Bruce McCandless. Designed primarily for anti-submarine warfare during the Cold War, she conducted numerous operations and exercises in the Atlantic and Mediterranean, supporting fleet missions and NATO allies. The ship played a vital role in patrolling and protecting sea lanes, as well as participating in search and rescue missions. Decommissioned in 1994, USS McCandless was later transferred to Turkey, where she served as TCG Trakya (F-254).

USS Nereus (AS-17) was a Fulton-class submarine tender commissioned by the United States Navy on 27 October 1944. During World War II, she provided vital repair, supply, and maintenance services to submarines operating in the Pacific Theater, particularly at Pearl Harbor and Guam. After the war, Nereus continued to serve in both the Atlantic and Pacific Fleets, supporting submarine operations during the early years of the Cold War. The ship was decommissioned in 1971, concluding over two decades of distinguished service to the U.S. submarine force.

USS Pyro (AE-24) was a Nitro-class ammunition ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1959. Designed to transport and deliver munitions to combat ships at sea, she played a crucial logistical role during the Vietnam War, ensuring the fleet remained supplied with vital ordnance. USS Pyro conducted numerous underway replenishments in the Western Pacific throughout the 1960s and 1970s, supporting U.S. naval operations. The ship was decommissioned in 1994 after over three decades of service, earning multiple awards for her contributions.

USS Racine (LST-1191) was a Newport-class tank landing ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1971. Designed for rapid deployment of tanks, vehicles, and troops directly onto shore, Racine served primarily in the Pacific Fleet. The ship participated in numerous amphibious exercises and operations, supporting U.S. Marine Corps and joint-force missions throughout the Pacific and Indian Oceans. USS Racine was decommissioned in 1993, after over two decades of service, and later transferred to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Navy.

USS Rathburne (FF-1057) was a Knox-class frigate commissioned into the United States Navy on 16 May 1970. Named in honor of John Rathbun, a Continental Navy officer, the ship served primarily in the Pacific Fleet, undertaking anti-submarine warfare, convoy escort, and training missions during the Cold War. Rathburne participated in multiple deployments to the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean, supporting U.S. interests and allied operations. The frigate was decommissioned on 14 February 1992 and later sunk as a target during a training exercise in 2002.

USS Talbot (FFG-4) was a Brooke-class guided missile frigate of the United States Navy, commissioned on 22 April 1967. Named after Captain Silas Talbot, a distinguished officer in the Continental Navy, USS Talbot served primarily in the Atlantic Fleet, participating in numerous exercises and operations during the Cold War era. The ship was notable for its early integration of advanced missile systems, enhancing fleet air defense capabilities. USS Talbot was decommissioned on 5 December 1988, after over two decades of service, contributing to NATO operations and promoting maritime security before being transferred to the Egyptian Navy.

USS Taluga (AO-62) was a Cimarron-class fleet oiler commissioned by the United States Navy in 1944. She provided vital fuel support to combat ships during World War II, participating in key Pacific campaigns such as the invasions of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. After the war, Taluga continued her service through the Korean and Vietnam Wars, ensuring sustained naval operations by replenishing ships at sea. The vessel was decommissioned in 1972, concluding a distinguished career that spanned nearly three decades of active service.

USS Wabash (AOR-5) was a Wichita-class replenishment oiler commissioned into the United States Navy on 20 November 1971. Designed to provide underway replenishment of fuel, ammunition, and supplies to naval combat ships, Wabash played a vital support role during the Vietnam War, often operating in the Western Pacific. Throughout her service, she participated in numerous exercises and operations, including deployments to the Indian Ocean and Middle East during periods of heightened tension. After over two decades of service, USS Wabash was decommissioned on 30 September 1994 and struck from the Naval Vessel Register.

Attack Squadron 145 (VA-145), also known as the "Swordsmen," was a United States Navy attack squadron established in 1949. Initially flying propeller-driven aircraft, the squadron transitioned to jet aircraft and operated several models, including the A-1 Skyraider and later the A-6 Intruder. VA-145 saw extensive combat during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, participating in numerous strike missions and gaining a reputation for effectiveness and bravery. The squadron was ultimately disestablished on September 30, 1993, after more than four decades of distinguished service.

Attack Squadron 146 (VA-146), known as the "Blue Diamonds," was established by the United States Navy on 1 February 1956. The squadron was originally designated as Fighter Squadron VF-146 before transitioning to an attack role in February 1956. VA-146 served with distinction during the Vietnam War, flying the A-4 Skyhawk from several aircraft carriers and participating in numerous combat operations. The squadron was disestablished on 1 December 1971, after 15 years of service.

Attack Squadron 37 (VA-37), known as the “Ragin’ Bulls,” was established on July 1, 1967. The squadron initially flew the A-7A Corsair II and was assigned to Carrier Air Wing THREE (CVW-3), deploying aboard aircraft carriers such as the USS Saratoga. VA-37 participated in combat operations during the Vietnam War, providing close air support and strike missions. The squadron continued to serve through the Cold War era until it was disestablished on February 1, 1994.

Strike Fighter Squadron 83 (VA-83), known as the "Rampagers," was established on 1 May 1950. Originally flying the F4U Corsair, the squadron transitioned through several aircraft, including the A-4 Skyhawk and later the A-7 Corsair II. VA-83 participated in major Cold War operations, including deployments during the Cuban Missile Crisis and combat missions during the Vietnam War. In 1980, the squadron was redesignated as VFA-83 and received the F/A-18 Hornet, continuing its legacy as a key strike fighter unit in the U.S. Navy.

VAH-4 (Heavy Attack Squadron Four) was a United States Navy squadron established on January 1, 1956. The squadron was initially equipped with the A3D Skywarrior, a carrier-based heavy attack aircraft designed for long-range nuclear strike missions during the Cold War. VAH-4 served primarily with the Pacific Fleet, deploying on various aircraft carriers including USS Oriskany and USS Hancock. The unit was disestablished on May 1, 1969, as the Navy phased out the heavy attack mission and transitioned to newer aircraft and strategies.

Electronic Attack Squadron 138 (VAQ-138), known as the "Yellowjackets," was established in 1969. Initially flying the EKA-3B Skywarrior, the squadron later transitioned to the EA-6B Prowler and currently operates the EA-18G Growler, specializing in electronic warfare and suppression of enemy air defenses. VAQ-138 has participated in numerous operations, including Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, providing critical electronic attack capabilities to U.S. and allied forces. The squadron is based at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington, and continues to play a vital role in modern naval aviation.

Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 11 (VAW-11), known as the “Early Elevens,” was established on 6 March 1952. As one of the U.S. Navy’s pioneering airborne early warning (AEW) units, VAW-11 initially operated the Grumman AF-2W Guardian and later transitioned to the E-1B Tracer, providing radar surveillance and fleet air defense. The squadron played a crucial role during the Cold War era, supporting carrier battle groups in the Pacific and participating in deployments during the Vietnam War. VAW-11 was disestablished on 1 April 1967, with its detachments forming the basis for several new VAW squadrons that continued its legacy.

Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron Twelve (VAW-12), known as the "Bats," was established in July 1948 as part of the U.S. Navy's efforts to develop carrier-based airborne early warning (AEW) capabilities. Initially flying the TBM-3W Avenger, VAW-12 transitioned to more advanced AEW platforms, including the AF-2W Guardian, AD-5W Skyraider, and later the E-1B Tracer. The squadron played a crucial role in providing radar surveillance and airborne command and control for carrier strike groups during the Cold War era. In April 1967, VAW-12 was disestablished, with its assets and mission forming the core of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Wing ONE and supporting the creation of new VAW squadrons in the Atlantic Fleet.

Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 123 (VAW-123), known as the "Screwtops," was established in 1967. As part of the U.S. Navy, the squadron operates the E-2 Hawkeye aircraft, providing airborne early warning and battle management for carrier strike groups. VAW-123 has supported major operations including Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, earning numerous awards for its operational excellence. The squadron continues to play a critical role in surveillance, command and control, and maritime security missions worldwide.

**VC-10** was a United States Navy Composite Squadron, established during World War II. Formed in September 1943, VC-10 was assigned to escort carriers and specialized in anti-submarine warfare and maritime patrol, primarily in the Atlantic theater. The squadron flew aircraft such as the Grumman TBF Avenger and FM-2 Wildcat, providing critical protection for Allied convoys against German U-boats. VC-10 earned distinction for its successful operations, including the sinking of several enemy submarines, before being disestablished in June 1945 following the end of the war in Europe.

VF-121, also known as "The Pacemakers," was a United States Navy fighter squadron established in 1946. Initially flying F6F Hellcats and later transitioning to jet aircraft such as the F9F Panther and F3H Demon, the squadron played an important role in training and operational deployments during the Korean War era. In the late 1950s, VF-121 became the Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) for the F-4 Phantom II on the West Coast, responsible for training aircrews and maintenance personnel for the new aircraft. VF-121 was disestablished in 1971, having significantly contributed to the development and readiness of U.S. Navy fighter aviation.

Strike Fighter Squadron 143 (VF-143), known as the "Pukin’ Dogs," was established in 1950 as VF-871 before being redesignated VF-143 in 1953. The squadron flew a variety of aircraft, including the F-4 Phantom II and later the F-14 Tomcat, participating in major conflicts such as the Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, and Operation Enduring Freedom. VF-143 earned a reputation for excellence in air combat and fleet defense, earning multiple awards and citations throughout its service. In 2005, the unit was redesignated as VFA-143 and transitioned to flying the F/A-18E Super Hornet, continuing its distinguished legacy as a carrier-based strike fighter squadron in the United States Navy.