U.S. Navy

VF-31, also known as the "Tomcatters," is one of the oldest active U.S. Navy fighter squadrons, originally established in 1935. The squadron participated in World War II, flying the F6F Hellcat, and later saw action in Korea, Vietnam, and the Gulf War with various aircraft, including the F-4 Phantom and the iconic F-14 Tomcat. VF-31 gained distinction for its combat achievements and for being the last squadron to fly the F-14 Tomcat before transitioning to the F/A-18E Super Hornet in 2006. Today, as VFA-31, the Tomcatters continue their legacy as a premier strike fighter squadron in the U.S. Navy.

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.

Patrol Squadron 4 (VP-4), known as the "Skinny Dragons," is a United States Navy maritime patrol squadron originally established in 1943. During World War II, VP-4 conducted anti-submarine and reconnaissance missions across the Pacific theater, playing a key role in securing sea lanes. Over the decades, the squadron transitioned through several aircraft, including the P-2 Neptune, P-3 Orion, and currently operates the P-8A Poseidon. VP-4 has participated in numerous Cold War, post-Cold War, and modern operations, providing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) support in various global theaters.

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.

Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron Twelve (HM-12), known as the "Sea Dragons," was established by the United States Navy on April 1, 1971. As the Navy’s first dedicated airborne mine countermeasures (AMCM) squadron, HM-12 played a crucial role in developing and deploying helicopter-based mine-sweeping techniques, primarily using the CH-53 Sea Stallion helicopters. The unit provided vital mine-clearing support during operations such as the Vietnam War and later the Persian Gulf conflicts. HM-12 was instrumental in training personnel and establishing doctrine for modern mine countermeasures before its deactivation in 1994, with its legacy continued by successor squadrons.

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.

The Naval Nuclear Power School (NNPS) was established in 1955 as part of the United States Navy’s efforts to develop a highly trained force for its growing fleet of nuclear-powered submarines and ships. Originally located in New London, Connecticut, and later moved to Bainbridge, Maryland, the school finally settled in Charleston, South Carolina, in 1998. NNPS provides rigorous academic instruction in nuclear physics, reactor engineering, and thermodynamics to enlisted personnel and officers selected for service in the Navy’s nuclear propulsion program. The school's graduates have played vital roles in operating and maintaining the Navy's nuclear-powered warships, contributing significantly to the United States’ maritime dominance and strategic deterrence capabilities.

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.

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 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 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.

USS Sanctuary (AH-17) was a Haven-class hospital ship commissioned by the United States Navy in June 1945. Initially serving in the Pacific theater during the closing months of World War II, she provided vital medical support and care for wounded servicemen. Following the war, Sanctuary was decommissioned but later reactivated for service during the Vietnam War, where she rendered crucial medical and humanitarian assistance off the coast of Vietnam. The ship was notable for being the first Navy ship to have a mixed-gender crew, marking a significant milestone in naval history before her final decommissioning in 1975.

USS South Carolina (CGN-37) was a California-class nuclear-powered guided missile cruiser commissioned into the United States Navy in January 1975. Designed for anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare, she served as a multi-role escort for aircraft carrier battle groups during the Cold War. South Carolina participated in numerous deployments, including operations in the Mediterranean, North Atlantic, and the Persian Gulf, supporting U.S. interests and NATO allies. After over two decades of service, the cruiser was decommissioned in July 1999 and later scrapped as part of the Navy's reduction of its nuclear cruiser fleet.

VAW-120, known as the "Greyhawks," is a United States Navy Fleet Replacement Squadron established in 1961. Originally formed as Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron TWELVE (VAW-12), it was redesignated VAW-120 in 1967. The unit’s primary mission is to train aircrew and maintenance personnel for the Navy’s E-2 Hawkeye and C-2 Greyhound aircraft. VAW-120 has played a vital role in preparing carrier airborne early warning and logistics support crews, ensuring operational readiness for deployments worldwide.

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.