USN

USS Thorn (DD-988) was a Spruance-class destroyer of the United States Navy, commissioned on February 16, 1980. Built by Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Mississippi, Thorn served primarily in the Atlantic Fleet, participating in numerous exercises, deployments, and operations including NATO exercises and Middle East Force deployments. The ship was notable for its roles in maritime interdiction and escort missions, especially during heightened tensions in the Persian Gulf. After over two decades of service, USS Thorn was decommissioned on August 25, 2004, and later sunk as a target during a training exercise in 2006.

USS Wallace L. Lind (DD-703) was an Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer commissioned by the United States Navy in March 1944. She saw extensive service in World War II, participating in the Pacific campaign, including operations off Okinawa and providing anti-aircraft and fire support. In the Korean War, Wallace L. Lind conducted bombardment and screening duties, supporting United Nations forces on the peninsula. The destroyer continued her service through the Cold War era, participating in various exercises and deployments, until she was decommissioned in 1973 and later transferred to the Republic of Korea Navy.

USS William R. Rush (DD-714) was a Gearing-class destroyer commissioned in 1945, just as World War II was ending. Named after Rear Admiral William R. Rush, the ship served prominently during the Cold War era, participating in operations and exercises with both the Atlantic and Mediterranean fleets. She saw action during the Korean War, providing gunfire support and performing escort duties. The destroyer continued her service through the Vietnam War, before being decommissioned in 1978 and later transferred to the Republic of Korea Navy.

Attack Squadron 44 (VA-44), originally established as VF-44 in 1945, was a United States Navy attack squadron. Re-designated as VA-44 in 1950, the unit participated in carrier-based operations, primarily focusing on attack and training missions. Throughout its service, VA-44 operated a variety of aircraft, including the F4U Corsair and later the A-4 Skyhawk. The squadron was also notable for serving as a Fleet Replacement Squadron, training pilots and maintenance personnel until its disestablishment in 1970.

Attack Squadron 56 (VA-56), known as the "Champions," was a United States Navy attack squadron established on 4 July 1956. Initially operating the F9F-8B Cougar, the squadron later transitioned to the A-4 Skyhawk and A-7 Corsair II aircraft. VA-56 participated in major Cold War and Vietnam War operations, including multiple combat deployments to Southeast Asia from the aircraft carriers USS Hancock and USS Midway. The squadron was disestablished on 29 September 1986 after three decades of distinguished service.

VAQ-132, known as the "Scorpions," is a distinguished U.S. Navy electronic attack squadron established in 1955. Originally formed as Patrol Squadron (VP) 911 and later redesignated as Heavy Attack Squadron (VAH-132), the unit transitioned to electronic warfare in 1968, becoming the Navy's first operational EA-6B Prowler squadron. Over its history, VAQ-132 has participated in numerous major operations, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Odyssey Dawn. The squadron transitioned to the cutting-edge EA-18G Growler in 2009, continuing its vital mission of electronic attack and suppression of enemy air defenses.

VF-194, also known as Fighter Squadron 194, was a U.S. Navy aviation unit established on May 18, 1955. The squadron was nicknamed the "Red Lightnings" and was primarily equipped with the FJ-3 Fury and later the F-8 Crusader fighter aircraft. VF-194 served with distinction aboard various aircraft carriers, participating in numerous deployments in the Pacific and supporting U.S. interests during the Cold War. The squadron was disestablished on March 1, 1958, after less than three years of active service.

Strike Fighter Squadron 131 (VFA-131), known as the "Wildcats," was established on October 2, 1983. The squadron initially flew the F/A-18A Hornet and became operational at NAS Lemoore before moving to NAS Cecil Field and later NAS Oceana. VFA-131 participated in major operations including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Southern Watch, and Operation Enduring Freedom, conducting strike, escort, and close air support missions. Over its history, the Wildcats have been recognized for their combat performance and have played a vital role in U.S. Navy carrier air wing deployments worldwide.

Strike Fighter Squadron 136 (VFA-136), known as the "Knighthawks," was established on July 1, 1985. Originally equipped with the F/A-18A Hornet, the squadron quickly became a key component of U.S. Navy carrier air wings, participating in numerous deployments and exercises worldwide. VFA-136 saw combat action during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, providing strike and support missions over Iraq and Kuwait. Over the years, the squadron has transitioned to the advanced F/A-18E Super Hornet and continues to serve as a frontline strike fighter unit, supporting U.S. interests across the globe.

Strike Fighter Squadron 137 (VFA-137), known as the "Kestrels," was established on July 2, 1985, at Naval Air Station Lemoore, California. Originally flying the F/A-18A Hornet, the squadron transitioned to the F/A-18E Super Hornet in 2003, enhancing its combat capabilities. VFA-137 has participated in numerous deployments, supporting operations such as Southern Watch, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom aboard various aircraft carriers. The squadron is renowned for its operational excellence and has earned several awards for its performance and safety record.

Patrol Squadron 7 (VP-7) was a United States Navy patrol squadron established originally during World War II. Reactivated several times, its final designation as VP-7 occurred in 1948, operating primarily from NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Throughout the Cold War, VP-7 flew maritime patrol and anti-submarine warfare missions, first with the P2V Neptune and later the P-3 Orion aircraft. The squadron played a significant role in Atlantic fleet operations, including surveillance during the Cuban Missile Crisis, before being disestablished in 1969.

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.

Sea Control Squadron 35 (VS-35), also known as the "Blue Wolves," was a U.S. Navy anti-submarine warfare squadron. The squadron was originally established during World War II and went through several periods of activation and deactivation throughout its history. Most notably, VS-35 was reactivated in 1986 and operated the S-3 Viking aircraft from aircraft carriers, providing anti-submarine, surface surveillance, and electronic warfare capabilities. The squadron was based at Naval Air Station North Island, California, and participated in multiple deployments before being decommissioned in 2005.

VT-26, also known as Training Squadron Twenty-Six, is a United States Navy training squadron established in 1960 at Naval Air Station Chase Field in Beeville, Texas. The squadron's primary mission has been to train naval aviators in advanced multi-engine and jet aircraft, originally utilizing the T-2 Buckeye and later the T-45 Goshawk. Throughout its history, VT-26 played a vital role in preparing pilots for fleet assignments and carrier operations. The squadron relocated to Naval Air Station Corpus Christi, Texas, where it continues to support naval aviation training and excellence.

Assault Craft Unit FOUR (ACU-4) is a United States Navy amphibious unit established in 1963. Stationed at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story in Virginia, ACU-4 is the Navy’s primary operational command for Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) operations on the East Coast. The unit’s mission is to provide rapid ship-to-shore movement of troops, vehicles, and equipment in support of amphibious and expeditionary warfare. Over the decades, ACU-4 has supported numerous operations, exercises, and humanitarian missions, demonstrating its vital role in enhancing the Navy and Marine Corps’ operational flexibility and reach.

Antarctic Support Activities (ASA) was a U.S. Navy unit tasked with logistical and operational support for scientific missions in Antarctica during Operation Deep Freeze. In the 1968-69 season, ASA played a critical role in maintaining supply lines, constructing and servicing bases such as McMurdo Station, and ensuring safe air and sea transport for personnel and equipment. The unit operated in extremely challenging conditions, coordinating with civilian scientists and other military branches to enable vital research on the continent. Their efforts during this period contributed significantly to the advancement of polar science and reinforced American presence in Antarctica.

Combat Heavy Battalion 10 (CHB10) is a specialized engineering unit within the military known for its expertise in construction, demolition, and logistical support in combat zones. Established in the early 1990s, CHB10 has participated in numerous overseas operations, including peacekeeping missions and infrastructure rebuilding efforts in conflict-affected regions. The unit is recognized for its rapid deployment capabilities, often being among the first to establish forward operating bases and critical supply routes. Over the years, CHB10 has earned multiple commendations for its effectiveness, adaptability, and contributions to joint military operations.

Comando de Cruzeiros do Atlântico (Com Cru Des Lant) is a Brazilian Navy unit responsible for the command and operational control of cruisers assigned to the Atlantic theater. Established in the mid-20th century, it played a key role in organizing and coordinating naval operations involving Brazil’s cruiser force, particularly during periods of heightened maritime security concerns. Over the decades, Com Cru Des Lant contributed to training exercises, joint operations with allied navies, and the modernization of surface combatant tactics within the Brazilian fleet. Its legacy reflects Brazil’s commitment to maintaining a capable and responsive naval presence in the South Atlantic.

The Dental Corps at Great Lakes Naval Training Center has played a vital role in supporting the health and readiness of U.S. Navy personnel since the early 20th century. Established to provide dental care for recruits and personnel, the Dental Corps expanded significantly during both World Wars to meet the demands of rapidly increasing troop numbers. Over the decades, the unit has integrated advanced dental technologies and preventive care programs, ensuring sailors are fit for duty. Today, the Dental Corps at Great Lakes continues to deliver comprehensive dental services, supporting the mission of the Navy’s largest training installation.

Fleet Area Control and Surveillance Facility, San Diego (FACSFAC San Diego), was established in 1972 to provide airspace management, control, and surveillance services for military training and operations off the Southern California coast. Originally formed to support the growing need for safe and coordinated use of increasingly congested military and civilian airspace, FACSFAC San Diego became a critical command and control facility for naval and joint exercises, missile tests, and fleet training events. Over the years, the unit has adapted to evolving technologies and operational demands, ensuring seamless coordination between air, surface, and subsurface forces. Today, FACSFAC San Diego continues to play a vital role in maintaining readiness and safety for U.S. and allied forces operating in the Pacific region.

The FICLANT, or Fuerza del Mando de Canarias (Canary Islands Command), is a significant military unit of the Spanish Navy responsible for maritime operations in the Canary Islands area. Established as part of Spain’s efforts to reinforce its Atlantic and African maritime presence, FICLANT oversees naval security, defense, and cooperation with allied forces in the strategically vital waters off northwest Africa. The command conducts joint exercises, anti-piracy missions, and humanitarian operations, reflecting Spain’s commitment to regional stability. Over the years, FICLANT has adapted to evolving security challenges, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of Spanish naval strategy in the Atlantic.

FIRSTPAC, short for First Pacific Command, is a notional military unit representing a joint-service force responsible for operations in the Pacific theater. Established in the mid-20th century to address growing security concerns in the Asia-Pacific region, FIRSTPAC has played a pivotal role in major regional exercises, humanitarian missions, and strategic deterrence operations. The unit has participated in alliances and partnerships, notably supporting multinational efforts such as RIMPAC and Pacific Partnership. Over the decades, FIRSTPAC has evolved to incorporate advanced technologies and integrated command structures, ensuring readiness to respond to emerging threats across the Pacific Rim.

The Fleet Combat Training Center Atlantic (FCTCLANT) was established in the mid-20th century to enhance the combat readiness of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet. Located in Dam Neck, Virginia, FCTCLANT provided advanced training in naval warfare tactics, electronic warfare, and weapons systems operation for surface ship crews and battle groups. Over the decades, the center evolved its curriculum to incorporate emerging technologies and respond to changing global threats, supporting both peacetime operations and combat deployments. FCTCLANT played a vital role in ensuring the tactical proficiency and effectiveness of Atlantic Fleet personnel throughout the Cold War and into the 21st century.

The Fleet Intelligence Center Pacific (FICPAC) is a key United States Navy intelligence unit based at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Established in 1955, its primary mission is to provide timely and accurate intelligence support to U.S. Pacific Fleet commanders, enabling informed decision-making and effective operational planning. Over the decades, FICPAC has played a crucial role in major Pacific operations, from the Cold War through recent conflicts, by analyzing and disseminating vital naval intelligence. Today, the center continues to support maritime operations and regional security by leveraging advanced technology and highly skilled intelligence professionals.