U.S. Navy

USS Raleigh (LPD-1) was the lead ship of the Raleigh-class amphibious transport docks, commissioned into the United States Navy on 8 September 1962. Designed to support amphibious assault operations, Raleigh participated in several major exercises and deployments, including operations during the Vietnam War, where she transported Marines and equipment ashore. Throughout her service, she was involved in numerous training missions, humanitarian efforts, and multinational exercises, showcasing her versatility in both combat and non-combat scenarios. After over two decades of service, USS Raleigh was decommissioned on 13 December 1991.

USS Roanoke (AOR-7) was a Wichita-class replenishment oiler commissioned by the United States Navy on 30 October 1976. Designed to provide underway replenishment of fuel, munitions, and stores to naval battle groups, Roanoke served primarily in the Pacific Fleet. Throughout her career, she supported numerous operations and exercises, including deployments to the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean, playing a vital logistical role during peacetime and crisis. After nearly two decades of service, USS Roanoke was decommissioned on 6 October 1995.

USS Thomaston (LSD-28) was a Thomaston-class dock landing ship commissioned by the United States Navy in September 1954. Named after Thomaston, Maine, the vessel played a critical role in amphibious operations, including extensive service during the Vietnam War where she supported troop landings, transported equipment, and participated in riverine and coastal missions. Over her three decades of active service, USS Thomaston was involved in numerous training exercises and humanitarian missions across the Pacific and Indian Oceans. The ship was decommissioned in September 1984, leaving a legacy of versatility and dependable support to U.S. naval amphibious forces.

USS Wainwright (CG-28) was a Belknap-class guided missile cruiser commissioned into the United States Navy in 1966. Named after a distinguished family of naval officers, Wainwright served extensively during the Vietnam War, providing naval gunfire support and conducting search and rescue operations. Throughout the Cold War, the cruiser participated in numerous NATO exercises, Mediterranean deployments, and operations to project American naval power. USS Wainwright was decommissioned in 1993 after nearly three decades of service, leaving a legacy of versatility and dedication to national defense.

Electronic Attack Squadron 141 (VAQ-141), known as the "Shadowhawks," was established on July 1, 1987. Initially based at NAS Whidbey Island, the squadron operates the EA-18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft. VAQ-141 has participated in multiple major operations, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Southern Watch, and Operation Enduring Freedom, providing vital electronic attack and suppression of enemy air defenses. In 2012, VAQ-141 relocated to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, becoming the first forward-deployed Growler squadron in the Pacific, supporting U.S. and allied operations throughout the Indo-Pacific region.

Electronic Attack Squadron 33 (VAQ-33), known as the "Firebirds," traces its origins to World War II, originally established as VAW-33 in 1949. The squadron initially served as an anti-submarine and utility unit before transitioning to an electronic warfare mission, redesignated as VAQ-33 in 1968. Throughout the Cold War, VAQ-33 played a pivotal role in electronic countermeasures training for U.S. Navy fleet units, simulating enemy radar and missile threats. Based at NAS Key West and later NAS Oceana, the Firebirds operated a variety of modified aircraft—including the A-3 Skywarrior, P-2 Neptune, and EA-6A Intruder—until their deactivation in 1993.

Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 122 (VAW-122), known as the "Steeljaws," was established on April 1, 1967. The squadron operated the E-2 Hawkeye and provided airborne early warning and command and control for the U.S. Navy’s Atlantic Fleet. VAW-122 saw significant action during the Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, and supported various operations throughout the Cold War era. The unit was decommissioned on March 31, 1996, after nearly three decades of distinguished service.

Fleet Composite Squadron 8 (VC-8), also known as "Redtails," was a United States Navy aviation unit established in December 1956. Originally based at Naval Station Roosevelt Roads, Puerto Rico, VC-8 provided a variety of support roles, including aerial target towing, electronic warfare training, and fleet exercises for Atlantic Fleet forces. The squadron operated various aircraft over its history, such as the A-4 Skyhawk, S-2 Tracker, and later the HH-60H Seahawk for search and rescue missions. VC-8 was deactivated on September 26, 2003, concluding nearly five decades of versatile service to the Navy.

VF-142, known as the "Ghostriders," was a distinguished United States Navy fighter squadron established in 1948. Initially equipped with F4U Corsairs, the squadron transitioned through several jet aircraft, including the F-4 Phantom II and later the F-14 Tomcat. VF-142 participated in major conflicts such as the Vietnam War and operations in the Persian Gulf, earning a reputation for excellence in air combat and fleet defense. The squadron was deactivated in April 1995 after nearly five decades of service.

VF-84, known as the "Jolly Rogers," was a renowned U.S. Navy fighter squadron established in 1955. Initially flying the FJ-3 Fury, the squadron later transitioned to the F-8 Crusader, F-4 Phantom II, and finally the F-14 Tomcat, gaining fame for their distinctive skull-and-crossbones insignia. VF-84 participated in numerous deployments, including combat operations during the Vietnam War and several Mediterranean cruises during the Cold War. The squadron was disestablished in 1995, but its legacy continues through its iconic imagery and the traditions carried on by successor units.

VF-92, known as the "Silver Kings," was a United States Navy fighter squadron established in March 1952. The unit operated various aircraft, including the F2H Banshee, F9F Panther, and later the F-4 Phantom II. VF-92 participated in numerous deployments, including significant combat operations during the Vietnam War, flying from aircraft carriers such as USS Constellation and USS Enterprise. The squadron was disestablished in January 1976, leaving a distinguished legacy in naval aviation history.

Air Test and Evaluation Squadron One (VX-1), known as the "Pioneers," was established in 1942 at Naval Air Station Quonset Point, Rhode Island. Its original mission was to develop and evaluate airborne anti-submarine warfare (ASW) tactics and equipment for the U.S. Navy. Over the decades, VX-1 expanded its role to include operational testing and evaluation of a wide array of maritime patrol, reconnaissance, and warfare systems, including the P-3 Orion, P-8 Poseidon, and MH-60R/S Seahawk helicopters. Currently based at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, VX-1 continues to play a critical role in advancing naval aviation technology and ensuring fleet readiness.

Air Development Squadron Five (VX-5), known as the "Vampires," was established by the U.S. Navy on 18 June 1951 at Naval Air Station Moffett Field, California. Its primary mission was to conduct operational testing and evaluation of naval aviation weapons and tactics, ensuring new systems were effective and reliable for fleet use. In 1956, VX-5 relocated to Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, California, where it played a crucial role in the development of advanced weapons systems, including air-to-ground ordnance and electronic warfare tools. The squadron remained at the forefront of naval aviation innovation until 1993, when it merged with VX-4 to form Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Nine (VX-9).

Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Nine (VX-9), known as the "Vampires," was established in 1993 through the consolidation of the Naval Air Test Center Detachment (NATC Det) and Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Four (VX-4). Based at Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, California, VX-9’s mission is to conduct operational test and evaluation of U.S. Navy and Marine Corps tactical aircraft and weapons systems. The squadron has played a critical role in testing and validating the performance of platforms such as the F/A-18 Hornet, F-14 Tomcat, EA-18G Growler, and F-35C Lightning II. Through its rigorous evaluation processes, VX-9 ensures that new aircraft and weapons meet the demanding requirements of modern naval aviation.

The WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service) was a unit of the U.S. Navy established during World War II, on July 30, 1942. Created to free up male personnel for combat roles, the WAVES allowed women to serve in non-combat positions such as clerical work, aviation mechanics, and communications. By the end of the war, over 86,000 women had served as WAVES, making significant contributions to the Navy’s wartime operations. Their exemplary service paved the way for the permanent integration of women into the U.S. armed forces after the war.

The USS Sperry (AS-12) was a Fulton-class submarine tender commissioned into the United States Navy in 1942. Named after inventor Elmer Sperry, she provided vital repair, supply, and support services to submarines in the Pacific Theater throughout World War II, including during key operations at Pearl Harbor, Midway, and Guam. After the war, Sperry continued to serve during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, ensuring the operational readiness of the U.S. submarine fleet. Decommissioned in 1982, the USS Sperry earned multiple battle stars and commendations for her decades of dedicated service.

ASU Bahrain, or Area Support Unit Bahrain, serves as the primary U.S. Army support element in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Established to provide logistical, administrative, and operational support, ASU Bahrain plays a crucial role in sustaining U.S. Army and joint forces operating in the region. The unit supports missions related to security cooperation, regional stability, and contingency operations throughout the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility. Over the years, ASU Bahrain has contributed to strengthening U.S.-Bahraini military relations and ensuring the readiness and welfare of deployed personnel.

The Chelsea Naval Hospital was established in 1836 in Chelsea, Massachusetts, making it one of the earliest naval hospitals in the United States. Throughout its history, the hospital provided medical care to Navy personnel, Marines, and occasionally Army soldiers, including during major conflicts such as the Civil War, World Wars I and II, and the Korean War. The facility was renowned for its advanced medical treatments, rehabilitation services, and training of Navy medical staff. After nearly 140 years of service, the Chelsea Naval Hospital was officially closed in 1974, with its historic buildings later repurposed for residential use.

Commander, Destroyer Squadron NINE (COMDESRON 9) is a United States Navy destroyer squadron based in Everett, Washington. Established during World War II, the squadron has a storied history, having participated in both Pacific and Atlantic operations, as well as numerous exercises and deployments during the Cold War. In the modern era, COMDESRON 9 functions as a principal tactical and administrative commander for assigned destroyers, supporting Carrier Strike Group operations and independent missions in the Indo-Pacific region. The squadron continues to play a vital role in maintaining maritime security and readiness for the U.S. Navy.

Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center (MARMC), located in Norfolk, Virginia, traces its origins to the consolidation of several naval maintenance activities in the early 2000s. Officially established in 2004, MARMC was created as part of the U.S. Navy’s initiative to streamline and modernize fleet maintenance and support operations. The center provides comprehensive maintenance, repair, and technical support for ships, submarines, and associated systems across the Mid-Atlantic region. MARMC continues to play a crucial role in ensuring fleet readiness and supporting both Atlantic Fleet and deployed naval forces worldwide.

Mine Squadron 10 (MinRon 10) is a United States Navy unit specializing in mine warfare operations. Established during World War II, MinRon 10 played a significant role in laying and clearing naval mines in the Pacific Theater, supporting amphibious assaults and securing vital sea lanes. Over the decades, the squadron adapted to evolving mine warfare technology, participating in major conflicts such as the Korean War and Vietnam War. Today, MinRon 10 continues to provide expertise in mine countermeasures, ensuring the safety and operational freedom of U.S. and allied naval forces.

Naval Air Station Lakehurst, located in New Jersey, was established in 1921 as a key site for the United States Navy’s lighter-than-air program. The base gained historical significance as the location of the Hindenburg disaster in 1937, when the German airship caught fire while attempting to land. Throughout World War II, NAS Lakehurst served as a major center for blimp operations, anti-submarine patrols, and airship training. In the postwar era, the station transitioned to support Naval aviation testing and aircraft launch and recovery systems, remaining a vital component of Navy research and development.

Naval Communication Station Stockton, California, was established during World War II to serve as a key communications hub for the United States Navy on the West Coast. Its mission included handling vital radio traffic, relaying messages between the Pacific Fleet and naval commands, and supporting fleet operations during and after the war. The station played a significant role throughout the Cold War, evolving with advancements in communication technology to maintain secure and reliable links for naval operations. Eventually, with changing defense needs and modernization, the facility’s functions were reduced and transferred, leading to its closure in the late 20th century.

Naval Hospital Millington, located in Millington, Tennessee, was established during World War II to provide medical care and support for the rapidly expanding Naval Air Station Millington. The hospital played a crucial role in treating service members, training medical personnel, and supporting Navy operations throughout the war and the subsequent decades. As military needs evolved, the hospital continued to serve active-duty personnel, dependents, and retirees in the region. Its mission was eventually absorbed by other Navy medical facilities as part of broader military realignments, but its legacy of service endures in Navy medicine history.