USN

Strike Fighter Squadron 86 (VFA-86), known as the "Sidewinders," was originally established as VA-86 on 1 February 1955. The squadron flew the F-14 Tomcat before transitioning to the F/A-18 Hornet, reflecting the Navy’s modernization efforts. VFA-86 has participated in numerous significant operations, including the Gulf of Sidra incident, Operation Desert Storm, and Operation Enduring Freedom. Over decades of service, the Sidewinders have earned a reputation for excellence in carrier-based strike operations and support of U.S. Navy missions worldwide.

Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Four (VX-4), known as the "Evaluators," was established by the U.S. Navy in 1950 at Naval Air Station Point Mugu, California. Its primary mission was to conduct operational test and evaluation of airborne fighter weapons systems, tactics, and equipment, particularly for Navy carrier-based aircraft. Over the decades, VX-4 played a crucial role in the development and refinement of air-to-air missiles, radar systems, and electronic warfare capabilities, notably contributing to the advancement of the F-4 Phantom II and F-14 Tomcat programs. In 1994, VX-4 was disestablished and its functions merged into VX-9, continuing its legacy of supporting naval aviation excellence.

The 3rd New York Infantry Regiment was organized in 1861 and served throughout the American Civil War as part of the Union Army. The unit participated in numerous campaigns, including the Peninsula Campaign and the Siege of Suffolk. It saw action in battles such as Antietam and Fredericksburg, earning a reputation for discipline and resilience. The regiment mustered out in 1863, having played a significant role in several key engagements in the Eastern Theater.

**USS Sphinx (ARL-24)** was an Achelous-class landing craft repair ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1945. Originally laid down as LST-963, she was converted during construction to serve as a repair vessel for landing craft, providing critical support during the closing months of World War II. After the war, USS Sphinx participated in various post-war operations and later saw service during the Vietnam War, where she provided repair and logistical support for riverine and coastal forces. Decommissioned in 1971, Sphinx was eventually struck from the Naval Vessel Register in 1975, concluding her distinguished service.

ComDesDiv 12, formally known as Destroyer Division 12, was a unit of the United States Navy that saw distinguished service during the early years of World War II. Commissioned before the war, the division was initially part of the Asiatic Fleet, operating in the Western Pacific and Southeast Asia. During the opening months of the Pacific War, ships of ComDesDiv 12 participated in the defense of the Philippines and the Dutch East Indies, engaging in several notable actions against superior Japanese naval forces. Despite suffering losses, the division’s actions delayed enemy advances and contributed to the broader Allied war effort in the region.

The United States Naval Forces Central Command (USNAVCENT), headquartered in Manama, Bahrain, operates as the United States Fifth Fleet (COMFIFTHFLT). Reactivated in 1995, the Fifth Fleet traces its origins to World War II operations in the Pacific but now focuses on the vital waters of the Middle East, including the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Arabian Sea, and parts of the Indian Ocean. COMFIFTHFLT is responsible for ensuring maritime security, conducting joint and combined naval operations, and safeguarding the free flow of commerce in a region critical to global energy supplies. Over the years, it has played a key role in operations such as enforcing sanctions, counter-piracy, and supporting major campaigns including Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

USS Forrest Sherman (DD-931) was the lead ship of her class of destroyers in the United States Navy, commissioned on November 9, 1955. Named after Admiral Forrest Percival Sherman, she served prominently during the Cold War, participating in various NATO exercises, Mediterranean deployments, and crisis responses, including the Cuban Missile Crisis. Throughout her career, USS Forrest Sherman was involved in anti-submarine warfare, escort duties, and goodwill visits to numerous foreign ports. After nearly three decades of service, she was decommissioned on November 5, 1982, and later used as a test ship before being scrapped.

The designation "FN USN" typically refers to "Fireman, United States Navy," which is an enlisted engineering rate within the U.S. Navy rather than a specific unit. The Fireman rating has its origins in the early days of steam-powered naval vessels, where Firemen were responsible for maintaining boilers and propulsion systems. Over time, the role evolved to include a broad range of engineering and mechanical tasks aboard ships and submarines, supporting essential operations. Today, U.S. Navy Firemen receive training in various engineering disciplines and often progress into specialized ratings such as Machinist’s Mate or Electrician’s Mate, playing a crucial part in maintaining fleet readiness and operational capability.

Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 8 (HC-8), known as the "Dragon Whales," was a United States Navy helicopter squadron established in 1984. Based at Naval Air Station Norfolk, Virginia, HC-8 provided vital vertical replenishment (VERTREP), search and rescue (SAR), and logistics support for the U.S. Atlantic Fleet. The squadron operated the CH-46 Sea Knight and later the MH-60S Seahawk helicopters, playing a key role in fleet support operations, humanitarian missions, and exercises worldwide. HC-8 was deactivated in 2005 as part of the Navy's reorganization and transition to the Helicopter Sea Combat (HSC) community.

Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light 48 (HSL-48), known as the "Vipers," was established on September 7, 1984, at Naval Air Station Mayport, Florida. The squadron was part of the U.S. Navy’s Atlantic Fleet and operated the SH-60B Seahawk helicopter, specializing in anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, and search and rescue missions. HSL-48 detachments deployed aboard guided missile frigates, destroyers, and cruisers, providing vital aerial support and extending the fleet’s operational reach. In 2015, as part of the Navy’s transition to the MH-60R Seahawk, HSL-48 was redesignated as Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 48 (HSM-48), continuing its legacy of excellence in maritime helicopter operations.

Kamiseya, Japan, was the site of a significant U.S. Navy communications facility established during the post-World War II era. Originally commissioned in 1945, Naval Security Group Activity (NSGA) Kamiseya played a crucial role in signals intelligence collection and cryptologic operations throughout the Cold War. The base was instrumental during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, providing vital intelligence support to U.S. and allied forces in the Pacific region. After decades of service, the facility was closed in the late 1990s, with its missions transferred to other locations.

Naval Air Reserve Training Unit (NARTU) NAS Alameda was established during World War II at Naval Air Station Alameda, California, to support the training and readiness of Naval Air Reserve personnel. The unit played a vital role in maintaining and preparing reserve squadrons for rapid mobilization during periods of conflict, including the Korean War and the early Cold War years. NARTU NAS Alameda provided flight training, aircraft maintenance, and operational support for a variety of naval aircraft and crews. The unit continued its mission until the realignment and eventual closure of NAS Alameda in the late 1990s as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process.

Naval Air Station (NAS) Beeville, located near Beeville, Texas, was established in 1943 during World War II to serve as a training base for naval aviators. Originally known as Chase Field, the facility played a key role in training pilots for carrier-based operations, particularly jet aircraft, during the Cold War era. Reactivated in 1952, NAS Beeville became renowned for its advanced jet training programs, including those for the Navy's A-4 Skyhawk and TA-4J aircraft. The base operated until its closure in 1992, after which the site was repurposed for civilian use, but its legacy as a premier naval aviation training center remains significant in U.S. military history.

Naval Training Center Bainbridge, located in Bainbridge, Maryland, was commissioned in 1942 during World War II as a major training site for the United States Navy. At its peak, the center trained hundreds of thousands of recruits, playing a critical role in preparing sailors for wartime service. After World War II, Bainbridge continued to serve as a recruit training and specialized instruction center, notably during the Korean and early Vietnam Wars. The base was officially closed in 1976 as part of military realignment, having trained over 500,000 sailors during its years of operation.

Naval Communication Station San Juan, Puerto Rico (NAVCOMMSTA San Juan PR) was established in the mid-20th century as part of the U.S. Navy’s global communications network. Its mission was to provide reliable radio and message traffic support to fleet units operating in the Caribbean and Atlantic regions, serving as a critical link during the Cold War era. The station supported numerous naval operations, participating in regional exercises and ensuring secure communications for both U.S. and allied forces. NAVCOMMSTA San Juan was eventually decommissioned as advances in technology and changing strategic priorities led to the consolidation of naval communications facilities worldwide.

Naval Support Activity Annapolis (NAVSTA Annapolis) is a key installation of the United States Navy located in Annapolis, Maryland. Established in 1911 to support the nearby United States Naval Academy, the base has provided essential logistical, administrative, and operational support to the Academy and the Navy at large. Over the decades, NAVSTA Annapolis has expanded its mission to include support for tenant commands, family housing, and various training functions. Today, it remains a vital component in ensuring the readiness and success of Naval Academy midshipmen and the broader naval mission in the National Capital Region.

Navy Operational Support Center (NOSC) San Diego has played a vital role in supporting the United States Navy Reserve forces in Southern California. Established to provide administrative, logistical, and training support, NOSC San Diego ensures Reserve Sailors are ready for mobilization and deployment worldwide. Throughout its history, the unit has been instrumental in preparing Reservists for operations ranging from humanitarian assistance to combat missions. Its enduring commitment to readiness and service has made NOSC San Diego a cornerstone of Navy Reserve operations on the West Coast.

**RTC** (Recruit Training Command) is a foundational military unit responsible for the initial training of enlisted personnel, particularly within naval forces such as the United States Navy. Established in the early 20th century, RTCs have served as the "boot camp" where recruits undergo physical conditioning, learn military discipline, and receive instruction in basic naval procedures and traditions. Over the decades, RTCs have adapted their programs to meet the evolving needs of modern warfare, incorporating advanced technology and updated training methodologies. Today, RTC remains a critical institution, shaping civilians into capable and disciplined sailors ready to serve their nation.

SEAL Team 4 is a United States Navy SEAL team established in 1983 and based at Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek, Virginia. The unit primarily focuses on operations in the Caribbean, Central, and South America, specializing in counter-narcotics, counter-terrorism, and special reconnaissance missions. SEAL Team 4 has played a significant role in supporting U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), often working closely with partner nations to train and assist their special operations forces. Over the years, the team has participated in numerous classified operations and humanitarian missions throughout the Western Hemisphere.

Shore Intermediate Maintenance Activity (SIMA) Newport, RI, was established to provide essential maintenance and repair services to the U.S. Navy’s Atlantic Fleet ships homeported or visiting the Newport area. Originating during the Cold War era, SIMA Newport played a critical role in ensuring fleet readiness by performing a wide range of technical and logistical support functions, including ship repairs, equipment overhauls, and technical training. The unit worked closely with other naval commands and supported numerous deployments and operations through its skilled workforce. With changes in naval force structure and the drawdown of homeported ships in Newport, SIMA Newport was eventually disestablished in the late 1990s, marking the end of an important chapter in the region’s military support history.

U.S. Naval Communication Station Harold E. Holt, located near Exmouth, Western Australia, was commissioned in 1967 as a joint facility between the United States and Australia. Its primary mission was to provide very low frequency (VLF) radio communications to allied naval forces, particularly submarines operating in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Named after Australian Prime Minister Harold E. Holt, who disappeared in 1967, the station became a key component of Western defense during the Cold War era. Over time, control and operations shifted more towards the Royal Australian Navy, with the U.S. presence gradually reduced.

USS **Basilone (DD-824)** was a Gearing-class destroyer of the United States Navy, named in honor of Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone, a Medal of Honor recipient from World War II. Commissioned in 1949, Basilone served extensively during the Cold War, participating in NATO exercises, Mediterranean deployments, and patrols in the Atlantic. The destroyer also supported operations during the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Vietnam War, providing naval gunfire support and escort duties. Decommissioned in 1977, USS Basilone was later transferred to the Hellenic Navy of Greece, where she served as *Nearchos* until her retirement.

The USS Bigelow (DD-942) was a Forrest Sherman-class destroyer commissioned by the United States Navy in 1957. Named after Medal of Honor recipient Elmer Charles Bigelow, the ship served primarily in the Atlantic and Mediterranean, participating in various fleet exercises and NATO operations during the Cold War. Bigelow was notable for her role in the naval quarantine during the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962 and for providing gunfire support during the Vietnam War. After over two decades of service, she was decommissioned in 1982 and eventually scrapped in 1992.

USS Cayuga (LST-1186) was a Newport-class tank landing ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1970. Designed for rapid deployment of tanks, vehicles, and troops directly onto shore, Cayuga played a significant role during the Vietnam War, providing logistical support and participating in amphibious operations. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, she served with the Pacific Fleet, supporting training exercises, humanitarian missions, and fleet maneuvers. The ship was decommissioned in 1994 after over two decades of distinguished service.