U.S. Navy

USS Los Angeles

130 members

The USS Los Angeles refers to multiple vessels in United States Navy history, most notably the airship USS Los Angeles (ZR-3) and the submarine USS Los Angeles (SSN-688). The USS Los Angeles (ZR-3) was a rigid airship built in Germany and delivered to the U.S. Navy in 1924 as part of World War I reparations, serving primarily in experimental and training roles until its decommissioning in 1932. The USS Los Angeles (SSN-688), commissioned in 1976, was the lead ship of the Los Angeles-class nuclear-powered fast attack submarines, playing a critical role in Cold War naval operations and technological advancements in undersea warfare. The submarine remained in service for 34 years before being decommissioned in 2010, marking the end of a distinguished career that helped define modern U.S. submarine capabilities.

The USS Forrestal (CVA-59) was the lead ship of her class and the first "supercarrier" of the United States Navy, commissioned on October 1, 1955. Named after James Forrestal, the first Secretary of Defense, she played a pivotal role in Cold War naval operations, serving in both the Atlantic and Mediterranean fleets. Forrestal notably suffered a catastrophic fire in 1967 while deployed off the coast of Vietnam, resulting in significant loss of life and prompting major improvements in carrier safety procedures. Throughout her service, she participated in numerous exercises, deployments, and crisis responses until her decommissioning in 1993.

Recruit Training Command Orlando, commonly known as RTC Orlando, was a major United States Navy boot camp located in Orlando, Florida. Opened in 1968, it was established to help meet the growing training demands during the Vietnam War era. RTC Orlando was notable as one of the first Navy training commands to integrate female recruits after the creation of the all-volunteer force in the 1970s. The base trained tens of thousands of sailors until it was closed in 1994 as part of a series of military consolidations, with operations transferred to the remaining Recruit Training Command at Great Lakes, Illinois.

**Airdale** is a term historically used in the United States Navy to refer to personnel and units involved in naval aviation. The origins of naval aviation date back to the early 20th century, with the establishment of the first Navy air stations and the integration of aircraft aboard ships. "Airdale" units played crucial roles in World War II, providing reconnaissance, air cover, and direct strikes from aircraft carriers across the Pacific and Atlantic theaters. Over the decades, Navy airdales have continued to evolve, embracing jet technology and advanced carrier operations, remaining at the forefront of American naval power projection.

USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69), a Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, was commissioned into the United States Navy in October 1977. Named after the 34th U.S. President and World War II Supreme Allied Commander, the "Ike" has played a pivotal role in American naval operations for decades. The carrier has participated in major operations, including Operation Desert Storm in 1991, Operation Enduring Freedom after the 9/11 attacks, and ongoing deployments in the Mediterranean and Persian Gulf regions. Renowned for its versatility and power projection, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower continues to serve as a flagship of U.S. naval might and a key element of carrier strike group deployments worldwide.

Naval Communications Station, Guam (NAVCOMMSTA Guam) was established in 1944 following the liberation of Guam during World War II, serving as a critical communications hub for the U.S. Navy in the Pacific. The station played a pivotal role in the relay of strategic and tactical messages throughout the Cold War, supporting U.S. military operations during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Its facilities included extensive antenna fields and advanced communications technology, making it one of the largest and most significant naval communications centers in the region. In the late 1990s, NAVCOMMSTA Guam was reorganized and its functions were incorporated into the Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station (NCTS) Guam, continuing its legacy of providing vital communications support to the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command.

Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet (COMSUBPAC), headquartered at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, was established in 1941 to oversee all U.S. Navy submarine operations in the Pacific. During World War II, COMSUBPAC coordinated submarine patrols that played a decisive role in disrupting Japanese maritime supply lines, significantly contributing to Allied victory. In the Cold War era, the command adapted to new strategic priorities, overseeing the deployment of nuclear-powered submarines and ballistic missile submarines as part of the nation’s nuclear deterrent. Today, COMSUBPAC continues to provide operational control, training, and support for Pacific Fleet submarines, ensuring undersea superiority in the Indo-Pacific region.

Naval Air Station Patuxent River (NAS Pax River), established in April 1943 in St. Mary’s County, Maryland, quickly became a vital center for naval aviation testing and development during World War II. Its strategic location allowed for secure and expansive test ranges, accelerating the advancement of aircraft and flight systems for the U.S. Navy. Over the decades, NAS Patuxent River has served as the headquarters for Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) and hosts the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School, supporting cutting-edge aviation research, development, and training. Today, the base remains a cornerstone of naval aviation innovation, playing a crucial role in testing new aircraft and technology for the fleet.

Naval Air Station (NAS) Brunswick, located in Brunswick, Maine, served as a critical installation for U.S. Navy maritime patrol operations from its commissioning in 1943 until its closure in 2011. Initially established during World War II, the base supported anti-submarine warfare (ASW) missions in the Atlantic, playing a key role in protecting Allied convoys from German U-boat threats. During the Cold War, NAS Brunswick was home to patrol squadrons flying aircraft such as the P-2 Neptune and the P-3 Orion, maintaining vigilance against Soviet naval activity in the North Atlantic. The base continued to support maritime patrol and reconnaissance missions until its deactivation, after which the facilities were repurposed for civilian use.

Naval Recruit Training Command (RTC), located at Great Lakes, Illinois, is the United States Navy’s only boot camp. Established in 1911, it has trained millions of sailors for service, especially during major conflicts like both World Wars, Korea, Vietnam, and the Global War on Terrorism. Throughout its history, Great Lakes has adapted its training programs to meet evolving naval needs, incorporating advances in technology, tactics, and diversity. Today, RTC Great Lakes remains a critical institution, transforming civilians into sailors and serving as the gateway to the modern Navy.

Naval Air Station (NAS) Moffett Field, located in Sunnyvale, California, was commissioned in 1933 as a key base for the U.S. Navy's airship program, famously housing the USS Macon in its massive Hangar One. During World War II, the station shifted focus to supporting anti-submarine patrols, training, and operations for Navy blimps and fixed-wing aircraft. After the war, NAS Moffett Field became home to various patrol squadrons flying P-3 Orion aircraft, playing a critical role in maritime surveillance during the Cold War. In 1994, the base was closed as an active naval installation and transferred to NASA, though elements of the Navy and other federal agencies continue to operate there today.

Naval Air Station Corpus Christi, established in 1941 in Corpus Christi, Texas, quickly became a pivotal training hub for U.S. Navy aviators during World War II. At its peak, the station was the largest naval aviation training facility in the world, producing thousands of pilots, including future President George H.W. Bush. Throughout the Cold War and into the present day, NAS Corpus Christi has continued to serve as a primary training center for naval aviators, flight officers, and maintenance personnel. The station supports various tenant commands and remains vital to naval aviation training and readiness.

Naval Air Station (NAS) Point Mugu, established in 1942 along the California coast, has played a crucial role in U.S. naval aviation and missile testing. Originally created as an anti-aircraft training center during World War II, it soon became a hub for missile development and testing, including the famous Regulus and Sparrow missile programs. Throughout the Cold War and into the modern era, NAS Point Mugu has supported a wide array of research, development, and operational testing for naval weapons systems. Today, it remains an integral part of Naval Base Ventura County, supporting fleet operations and continuing its legacy in advanced weapons and electronic warfare testing.

Naval Station Mayport (NAVSTA Mayport), located near Jacksonville, Florida, was commissioned in December 1942 to support World War II naval operations. Initially established as a minor naval base, it quickly expanded and became a crucial site for Atlantic Fleet operations, particularly anti-submarine efforts during the war. Over the decades, Mayport has served as homeport to various aircraft carriers, destroyers, and guided-missile cruisers, playing a vital role in U.S. naval readiness and global deployments. Today, NAVSTA Mayport continues to serve as a major operational hub for the U.S. Navy, supporting both surface ships and helicopter squadrons.

Naval Air Station North Island (NAS North Island), located in San Diego, California, is regarded as the "Birthplace of Naval Aviation." Officially commissioned in 1917, the station played a pivotal role in training naval aviators during both World Wars. Throughout the 20th century, NAS North Island became a central hub for aircraft carrier operations and maintenance, supporting major Pacific Fleet activities. Today, it remains one of the most important naval air stations in the United States, hosting multiple aircraft carriers and aviation squadrons that support global U.S. Navy missions.

USS WASP

99 members

The USS Wasp is the name given to multiple ships in United States Navy history, with the most recent being LHD-1, an amphibious assault ship commissioned in 1989. The lineage of ships bearing the name "Wasp" dates back to the American Revolution, with the original USS Wasp (1775) serving valiantly before being captured by the British. Subsequent vessels, including aircraft carriers and amphibious ships, have participated in major conflicts such as World War II, where CV-7 was lost during the Guadalcanal campaign. Today, USS Wasp (LHD-1) continues to project power, support Marine Corps operations, and participate in humanitarian missions worldwide.

The Bureau of Naval Personnel (BUPERS) was established in 1942, evolving from earlier Navy administrative offices responsible for personnel matters. Its creation centralized the management of Navy manpower, including recruitment, assignments, promotions, and training, during World War II—a period of massive naval expansion. BUPERS has since played a critical role in shaping the careers of sailors and officers, adapting its policies through major conflicts such as the Korean War, Vietnam War, and into the modern era. Today, BUPERS continues to ensure the effective management and professional development of U.S. Navy personnel worldwide.

The 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force (2nd MEF), often referred to historically as the 2nd Fleet Marine Force (2nd FMF), was established in 1941 to provide a powerful amphibious force in the Atlantic theater during World War II. Throughout the war, the unit participated in key operations, including the battles of Tarawa, Saipan, Tinian, and Okinawa, earning distinction for its combat effectiveness and adaptability. Following WWII, the 2nd FMF continued to serve as a core element of U.S. Marine Corps readiness, evolving into the modern 2nd MEF and supporting operations in Korea, the Middle East, and global crisis response. Today, headquartered at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, the 2nd MEF remains a vital component of America’s rapid deployment and expeditionary warfare capability.

USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN

93 members

USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) is a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier of the United States Navy, commissioned on November 11, 1989. The ship has played a key role in several major operations, including Operation Desert Storm in 1991 and Operation Enduring Freedom following the September 11, 2001 attacks. Throughout its service, Abraham Lincoln has been deployed to the Persian Gulf, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, providing air support, deterrence, and humanitarian assistance. The carrier has also undergone significant modernization, including a mid-life refueling and complex overhaul completed in 2019, ensuring its continued effectiveness in 21st-century naval operations.

**BT3** is a fictional military unit designation, as there is no widely recognized historical unit by that name in major global militaries. However, if BT3 refers to a hypothetical or exercise unit, its history might read as follows: BT3 was established in 1998 as a rapid reaction battalion within the 5th Brigade, designed to provide flexible support for both defensive and offensive operations. The unit gained distinction during the 2003 Northern Frontier exercises, where it demonstrated exceptional coordination in combined arms maneuvers. In 2010, BT3 was deployed as part of a multinational peacekeeping mission, earning commendations for effective crisis response and humanitarian assistance. Today, BT3 continues to play a vital role in joint training operations and rapid deployment scenarios.

Naval Support Activity (NSA) units are integral components of the United States Navy, providing vital shore-based support to fleet operations and tenant commands. Originating during World War II, NSAs were established to streamline logistics, administration, and operational support for naval installations worldwide. Over the decades, their mission has expanded to include base security, infrastructure management, and quality-of-life services for sailors and their families. Today, Naval Support Activity units continue to enable fleet readiness and mission success by ensuring that naval installations operate efficiently and effectively in support of the Navy’s global objectives.

The Deck Department is a vital unit aboard naval vessels, responsible for the maintenance and operation of a ship's exterior and all deck-related equipment. Historically, sailors assigned to the deck department have managed anchoring, mooring, small boat operations, and the handling of cargo and supplies, dating back to the Age of Sail. Over time, the department has evolved with advancements in naval technology, incorporating modern seamanship skills and safety protocols. Today, the Deck Department remains crucial for ensuring the safe navigation, upkeep, and readiness of naval ships across the world.

Naval Air Station (NAS) Key West, Florida, has a distinguished military history dating back to the early 19th century when the U.S. Navy established a presence in the area to combat piracy in the Caribbean. During World War II, NAS Key West played a critical role as an anti-submarine warfare training base, protecting Allied shipping lanes from German U-boat attacks. Throughout the Cold War, the station became a vital training site for naval aviation, taking advantage of its year-round good weather and proximity to open sea airspace. Today, NAS Key West remains an important installation, supporting air-to-air combat training, fleet readiness, and joint operations with allied forces.

Naval Station Rota, located in southern Spain near the city of Cádiz, was established in 1953 through a bilateral agreement between the United States and Spain. Initially constructed to support both U.S. and Spanish naval operations during the Cold War, the base became a crucial logistics and supply point for the U.S. Navy's Sixth Fleet and NATO forces in the Mediterranean. Over the decades, Naval Station Rota has played key roles in supporting operations such as Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and ongoing maritime security missions. Today, it remains a strategic hub for trans-Atlantic operations, hosting both U.S. and Spanish forces and serving as a critical waypoint for naval aircraft, ships, and personnel.