U.S. Navy

USS Henry B. Wilson (DDG-7) was a Charles F. Adams-class guided missile destroyer commissioned into the United States Navy in 1960. Named after Admiral Henry Braid Wilson, the ship served prominently during the Vietnam War, performing naval gunfire support, search and rescue, and escort duties. Throughout her service, Henry B. Wilson earned multiple battle stars for her actions off the coast of Vietnam. The destroyer continued to serve in various roles in the Pacific Fleet until her decommissioning in 1989.

USS Hoel (DDG-13) was a Charles F. Adams-class guided missile destroyer commissioned into the United States Navy in 1962. Named after Commander Ernest E. Hoel, a hero of the Battle off Samar in World War II, the ship served during the height of the Cold War. USS Hoel participated in major operations during the Vietnam War, including naval gunfire support and carrier escort duties. After nearly three decades of service, she was decommissioned in 1990 and later sunk as a target during fleet exercises in 1992.

The USS **Lynde McCormick (DDG-8)** was a Charles F. Adams-class guided missile destroyer commissioned into the United States Navy in 1961. Named after Admiral Lynde D. McCormick, the ship served primarily in the Pacific Fleet and was actively involved in operations during the Vietnam War, providing naval gunfire support and plane guard duties for aircraft carriers. Throughout her career, Lynde McCormick participated in multiple international exercises and deployments, demonstrating the Navy's commitment to global presence and alliance cooperation. After nearly three decades of service, she was decommissioned in 1991 and later sunk as a target in 2001.

USS Shasta (AE-33) was a Kilauea-class ammunition ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1972. Designed to carry and deliver ammunition and explosives to fleet units at sea, Shasta played a vital logistical role in supporting naval operations during the later years of the Cold War. The ship participated in numerous deployments, including operations in the Mediterranean and Indian Oceans, ensuring fleet readiness and sustained combat capability. After over two decades of service, USS Shasta was decommissioned in 1997 and later transferred to the Military Sealift Command, continuing her mission as USNS Shasta (T-AE-33).

Attack Squadron 35 (VA-35), also known as the "Black Panthers," was a distinguished attack squadron of the United States Navy. First established during World War II, the squadron participated in numerous Pacific campaigns, flying aircraft such as the TBF Avenger and later the A-6 Intruder. VA-35 saw combat during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, conducting strike missions and supporting fleet operations. The squadron was eventually disestablished in 1995, after decades of service marked by professionalism and combat excellence.

VAQ-130, known as the "Zappers," is the oldest electronic attack squadron in the United States Navy, originally established as VAW-13 in 1959 and redesignated VAQ-130 in 1968. The squadron first operated the EKA-3B Skywarrior, providing electronic warfare and aerial refueling capabilities during the Vietnam War. Over the decades, VAQ-130 transitioned through several aircraft, including the EA-6B Prowler, and currently flies the EA-18G Growler, specializing in electronic attack and suppression of enemy air defenses. The "Zappers" have participated in numerous operations, from the Gulf War to Operation Inherent Resolve, consistently supporting U.S. and coalition forces with advanced electronic warfare capabilities.

Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 121 (VAW-121), known as the "Bluetails," was established on April 1, 1967. The squadron flies the E-2 Hawkeye aircraft, providing airborne early warning and command and control capabilities for the U.S. Navy. VAW-121 has participated in numerous major operations, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom, supporting carrier strike groups with critical surveillance and battle management. Throughout its history, the Bluetails have earned multiple awards for operational excellence and safety, reflecting their vital role in naval aviation.

VF-101, known as the "Grim Reapers," was a renowned U.S. Navy fighter squadron established in 1942. The unit participated in World War II and later became famous for its role as a Fleet Replacement Squadron, training pilots and Radar Intercept Officers for the F-4 Phantom II and later the F-14 Tomcat. Throughout its history, VF-101 was stationed at NAS Oceana and played a vital part in maintaining the Navy's air combat readiness. The squadron was disestablished in 2005, briefly reactivated in 2012 for F-35C training, and finally disestablished again in 2019.

Strike Fighter Squadron 32 (VF-32), known as the "Swordsmen," was established in 1945 and has a storied history within U.S. Naval Aviation. The squadron saw action during the Korean War, flying F4U Corsairs, and later played significant roles in the Vietnam War with F-4 Phantom IIs. VF-32 gained acclaim in 1989 when its F-14 Tomcats shot down two Libyan MiG-23s during the Gulf of Sidra incident. In 1994, the squadron was redesignated as VFA-32, transitioning to the F/A-18F Super Hornet and continuing its legacy of excellence in modern naval operations.

Fighter Squadron 74 (VF-74), known as the "Be-Devilers," was a distinguished United States Navy fighter squadron established in 1945. Originally flying the F4U Corsair, VF-74 transitioned through several aircraft, including the F-4 Phantom II and the F-14 Tomcat, becoming the first operational Atlantic Fleet squadron to fly the F-14. The squadron participated in numerous Cold War operations, including Mediterranean deployments and crisis response missions, and was involved in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, providing combat air patrol and escort missions. VF-74 was disestablished in 1994 after nearly five decades of service.

Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron Two (VQ-2) was a U.S. Navy signals intelligence squadron established in 1955. Originally based at NAS Port Lyautey, Morocco, the unit moved to Rota, Spain in 1959, where it operated for nearly five decades. VQ-2 flew various aircraft, including the EC-121M Warning Star and EP-3E Aries, conducting electronic surveillance missions throughout Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East during the Cold War and beyond. The squadron played a critical role in providing real-time intelligence to U.S. and NATO forces until its deactivation in 2012.

The 20A61 Tactical Trainer Officer Training Center, located in Newport, Rhode Island, was established to enhance the tactical proficiency of naval officers through advanced simulation and classroom instruction. Since its inception, the center has utilized state-of-the-art tactical trainers to provide realistic scenarios replicating modern maritime operations. Over the years, it has played a pivotal role in preparing officers for leadership roles onboard ships and within Maritime Operations Centers. The center continues to evolve its curriculum, ensuring officers are well-versed in current doctrines, technology, and joint-force tactics.

The A-SCOL Store Keeper is a logistical support unit responsible for the efficient management, distribution, and storage of military supplies and equipment. Established to streamline supply chains within the armed forces, the unit plays a crucial role in maintaining operational readiness by ensuring that essential materials are always available where and when needed. Over the years, A-SCOL Store Keepers have adapted to advancements in inventory technology and supply management, enhancing their ability to support missions both at home and abroad. Their dedication and expertise have made them a vital component of military support operations, contributing significantly to the success of various campaigns and deployments.

The Mine Flotilla is a specialized naval unit responsible for the deployment, maintenance, and clearance of naval mines, playing a crucial role in maritime defense and area denial operations. Established in the early 20th century, the unit has participated in numerous conflicts, safeguarding national waters and disrupting enemy shipping routes. Over the decades, the Mine Flotilla has adapted to advancements in mine technology and countermeasure tactics, ensuring operational effectiveness. Today, it remains an integral part of naval strategy, contributing to both defensive and offensive maritime operations.

NTC Orlando, or Naval Training Center Orlando, was established in 1968 in Orlando, Florida, as a key training facility for the United States Navy. The base served primarily as a Recruit Training Command, where thousands of Navy recruits underwent basic training, as well as advanced technical instruction in various naval specialties. At its peak, NTC Orlando played a crucial role in preparing sailors for service during the Vietnam War and the Cold War. The installation was closed in 1995 as part of a Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) initiative, with its functions transferred to other naval training centers.

The Pacific Reserve Fleet, Long Beach, was established after World War II as part of the U.S. Navy's network of reserve fleets, commonly known as "mothball fleets." Located at the Long Beach Naval Shipyard in California, it served as a storage site for decommissioned and surplus naval vessels, preserving them for possible future reactivation during times of crisis, such as the Korean and Vietnam Wars. At its peak, the fleet housed dozens of ships, including battleships, cruisers, destroyers, and auxiliary vessels. The reserve fleet gradually diminished in size as ships were either scrapped, sold, or reactivated, and the Long Beach site eventually closed in the 1990s as part of post-Cold War military reductions.

USS Arkansas (CGN-41) was a Virginia-class nuclear-powered guided missile cruiser commissioned into the United States Navy on October 18, 1980. Designed for multi-role operations, she served as an escort for aircraft carrier battle groups, providing air defense and surface warfare capabilities with her advanced missile systems. Throughout her active service, Arkansas participated in numerous deployments, including operations in the Mediterranean Sea, the Persian Gulf, and support missions during the Gulf War. Decommissioned on July 7, 1998, the ship was subsequently dismantled as part of the Navy’s Nuclear-Powered Ship and Submarine Recycling Program.

USS BENJAMIN STODDERT (DDG-22) was a Charles F. Adams-class guided missile destroyer commissioned in 1964. Named after the first Secretary of the Navy, the ship served primarily in the Pacific Fleet, supporting operations during the Vietnam War with naval gunfire support and plane guard duties. Throughout her career, BENJAMIN STODDERT participated in numerous exercises and deployments, contributing to Cold War naval readiness and regional stability. After nearly three decades of service, she was decommissioned in 1991 and later sunk as a target in 2001.

USS Canisteo (AO-99) was a Cimarron-class fleet oiler commissioned by the United States Navy in December 1945. Serving primarily in the Atlantic Fleet, Canisteo provided vital underway replenishment support to U.S. and allied ships during the early Cold War, including operations in the Mediterranean and participation in NATO exercises. The ship also aided in the U.S. response to crises such as the Suez Crisis and the Lebanon intervention in 1958. After decades of service, Canisteo was decommissioned in 1989, marking the end of a distinguished career supporting naval operations around the globe.

USS Halsey (CG-23) was a Leahy-class guided missile cruiser commissioned into the United States Navy in July 1963. Named in honor of Fleet Admiral William F. Halsey Jr., the ship served primarily in the Pacific Fleet, participating in numerous operations during the Vietnam War and later Cold War exercises. Halsey was involved in air defense, anti-submarine warfare, and carrier escort missions, reflecting her advanced missile capabilities for the era. After nearly three decades of service, USS Halsey was decommissioned in January 1994 and subsequently scrapped.

USS Leahy (DLG-16), later reclassified as CG-16, was the lead ship of the Leahy-class guided missile cruisers in the United States Navy. Commissioned in 1962, she was among the first ships designed from the keel up as guided missile warships, equipped with advanced radar and missile systems for air defense. Throughout her service, Leahy participated in significant Cold War operations, including Mediterranean deployments with the Sixth Fleet and support roles during the Vietnam War. After nearly three decades of service, USS Leahy was decommissioned in 1993 and later scrapped.

USS Mars (AFS-1) was the lead ship of her class of combat stores ships in the United States Navy, commissioned on 21 December 1963. Designed to provide underway replenishment of provisions, ammunition, and stores to ships at sea, Mars played a crucial support role during the Vietnam War and later in the Western Pacific. Throughout her service, she participated in numerous operations, earning several campaign and service medals. USS Mars was decommissioned on 1 February 1993, concluding nearly three decades of distinguished service to the fleet.

USS Mississippi (CGN-40) was a Virginia-class nuclear-powered guided missile cruiser commissioned into the United States Navy on August 5, 1978. Designed for multi-mission capabilities, she was equipped with advanced radar and missile systems, serving as an escort for carrier battle groups and providing air defense, surface warfare, and anti-submarine capabilities. Throughout her service, Mississippi participated in numerous operations, including deployments to the Mediterranean and Persian Gulf, supporting U.S. interests and allied operations. The ship was decommissioned on July 28, 1997, following the end of the Cold War and subsequent reductions in the Navy’s nuclear-powered surface fleet.

USS Monticello (LSD-35) was a Thomaston-class dock landing ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1957. Designed to transport and launch amphibious craft and vehicles, she played a critical role in numerous operations, including troop deployments and humanitarian missions. During the Vietnam War, Monticello supported amphibious assaults and logistical operations, earning several campaign stars for her service. After decades of active duty, she was decommissioned in 1985 and eventually sold for scrap, marking the end of her distinguished naval career.