USN

USS Nereus (AS-17) was a Fulton-class submarine tender commissioned by the United States Navy on 27 October 1944. During World War II, she provided vital repair, supply, and maintenance services to submarines operating in the Pacific Theater, particularly at Pearl Harbor and Guam. After the war, Nereus continued to serve in both the Atlantic and Pacific Fleets, supporting submarine operations during the early years of the Cold War. The ship was decommissioned in 1971, concluding over two decades of distinguished service to the U.S. submarine force.

USS Pyro (AE-24) was a Nitro-class ammunition ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1959. Designed to transport and deliver munitions to combat ships at sea, she played a crucial logistical role during the Vietnam War, ensuring the fleet remained supplied with vital ordnance. USS Pyro conducted numerous underway replenishments in the Western Pacific throughout the 1960s and 1970s, supporting U.S. naval operations. The ship was decommissioned in 1994 after over three decades of service, earning multiple awards for her contributions.

USS Racine (LST-1191) was a Newport-class tank landing ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1971. Designed for rapid deployment of tanks, vehicles, and troops directly onto shore, Racine served primarily in the Pacific Fleet. The ship participated in numerous amphibious exercises and operations, supporting U.S. Marine Corps and joint-force missions throughout the Pacific and Indian Oceans. USS Racine was decommissioned in 1993, after over two decades of service, and later transferred to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Navy.

USS Talbot (FFG-4) was a Brooke-class guided missile frigate of the United States Navy, commissioned on 22 April 1967. Named after Captain Silas Talbot, a distinguished officer in the Continental Navy, USS Talbot served primarily in the Atlantic Fleet, participating in numerous exercises and operations during the Cold War era. The ship was notable for its early integration of advanced missile systems, enhancing fleet air defense capabilities. USS Talbot was decommissioned on 5 December 1988, after over two decades of service, contributing to NATO operations and promoting maritime security before being transferred to the Egyptian Navy.

USS Taluga (AO-62) was a Cimarron-class fleet oiler commissioned by the United States Navy in 1944. She provided vital fuel support to combat ships during World War II, participating in key Pacific campaigns such as the invasions of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. After the war, Taluga continued her service through the Korean and Vietnam Wars, ensuring sustained naval operations by replenishing ships at sea. The vessel was decommissioned in 1972, concluding a distinguished career that spanned nearly three decades of active service.

Attack Squadron 145 (VA-145), also known as the "Swordsmen," was a United States Navy attack squadron established in 1949. Initially flying propeller-driven aircraft, the squadron transitioned to jet aircraft and operated several models, including the A-1 Skyraider and later the A-6 Intruder. VA-145 saw extensive combat during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, participating in numerous strike missions and gaining a reputation for effectiveness and bravery. The squadron was ultimately disestablished on September 30, 1993, after more than four decades of distinguished service.

Attack Squadron 37 (VA-37), known as the “Ragin’ Bulls,” was established on July 1, 1967. The squadron initially flew the A-7A Corsair II and was assigned to Carrier Air Wing THREE (CVW-3), deploying aboard aircraft carriers such as the USS Saratoga. VA-37 participated in combat operations during the Vietnam War, providing close air support and strike missions. The squadron continued to serve through the Cold War era until it was disestablished on February 1, 1994.

Strike Fighter Squadron 83 (VA-83), known as the "Rampagers," was established on 1 May 1950. Originally flying the F4U Corsair, the squadron transitioned through several aircraft, including the A-4 Skyhawk and later the A-7 Corsair II. VA-83 participated in major Cold War operations, including deployments during the Cuban Missile Crisis and combat missions during the Vietnam War. In 1980, the squadron was redesignated as VFA-83 and received the F/A-18 Hornet, continuing its legacy as a key strike fighter unit in the U.S. Navy.

VAH-4 (Heavy Attack Squadron Four) was a United States Navy squadron established on January 1, 1956. The squadron was initially equipped with the A3D Skywarrior, a carrier-based heavy attack aircraft designed for long-range nuclear strike missions during the Cold War. VAH-4 served primarily with the Pacific Fleet, deploying on various aircraft carriers including USS Oriskany and USS Hancock. The unit was disestablished on May 1, 1969, as the Navy phased out the heavy attack mission and transitioned to newer aircraft and strategies.

Electronic Attack Squadron 138 (VAQ-138), known as the "Yellowjackets," was established in 1969. Initially flying the EKA-3B Skywarrior, the squadron later transitioned to the EA-6B Prowler and currently operates the EA-18G Growler, specializing in electronic warfare and suppression of enemy air defenses. VAQ-138 has participated in numerous operations, including Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, providing critical electronic attack capabilities to U.S. and allied forces. The squadron is based at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington, and continues to play a vital role in modern naval aviation.

Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 11 (VAW-11), known as the “Early Elevens,” was established on 6 March 1952. As one of the U.S. Navy’s pioneering airborne early warning (AEW) units, VAW-11 initially operated the Grumman AF-2W Guardian and later transitioned to the E-1B Tracer, providing radar surveillance and fleet air defense. The squadron played a crucial role during the Cold War era, supporting carrier battle groups in the Pacific and participating in deployments during the Vietnam War. VAW-11 was disestablished on 1 April 1967, with its detachments forming the basis for several new VAW squadrons that continued its legacy.

Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron Twelve (VAW-12), known as the "Bats," was established in July 1948 as part of the U.S. Navy's efforts to develop carrier-based airborne early warning (AEW) capabilities. Initially flying the TBM-3W Avenger, VAW-12 transitioned to more advanced AEW platforms, including the AF-2W Guardian, AD-5W Skyraider, and later the E-1B Tracer. The squadron played a crucial role in providing radar surveillance and airborne command and control for carrier strike groups during the Cold War era. In April 1967, VAW-12 was disestablished, with its assets and mission forming the core of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Wing ONE and supporting the creation of new VAW squadrons in the Atlantic Fleet.

Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 123 (VAW-123), known as the "Screwtops," was established in 1967. As part of the U.S. Navy, the squadron operates the E-2 Hawkeye aircraft, providing airborne early warning and battle management for carrier strike groups. VAW-123 has supported major operations including Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, earning numerous awards for its operational excellence. The squadron continues to play a critical role in surveillance, command and control, and maritime security missions worldwide.

**VC-10** was a United States Navy Composite Squadron, established during World War II. Formed in September 1943, VC-10 was assigned to escort carriers and specialized in anti-submarine warfare and maritime patrol, primarily in the Atlantic theater. The squadron flew aircraft such as the Grumman TBF Avenger and FM-2 Wildcat, providing critical protection for Allied convoys against German U-boats. VC-10 earned distinction for its successful operations, including the sinking of several enemy submarines, before being disestablished in June 1945 following the end of the war in Europe.

VF-121, also known as "The Pacemakers," was a United States Navy fighter squadron established in 1946. Initially flying F6F Hellcats and later transitioning to jet aircraft such as the F9F Panther and F3H Demon, the squadron played an important role in training and operational deployments during the Korean War era. In the late 1950s, VF-121 became the Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) for the F-4 Phantom II on the West Coast, responsible for training aircrews and maintenance personnel for the new aircraft. VF-121 was disestablished in 1971, having significantly contributed to the development and readiness of U.S. Navy fighter aviation.

Strike Fighter Squadron 86 (VFA-86), known as the "Sidewinders," was originally established as VA-86 on 1 February 1955. The squadron flew the F-14 Tomcat before transitioning to the F/A-18 Hornet, reflecting the Navy’s modernization efforts. VFA-86 has participated in numerous significant operations, including the Gulf of Sidra incident, Operation Desert Storm, and Operation Enduring Freedom. Over decades of service, the Sidewinders have earned a reputation for excellence in carrier-based strike operations and support of U.S. Navy missions worldwide.

The 3rd New York Infantry Regiment was organized in 1861 and served throughout the American Civil War as part of the Union Army. The unit participated in numerous campaigns, including the Peninsula Campaign and the Siege of Suffolk. It saw action in battles such as Antietam and Fredericksburg, earning a reputation for discipline and resilience. The regiment mustered out in 1863, having played a significant role in several key engagements in the Eastern Theater.

**USS Sphinx (ARL-24)** was an Achelous-class landing craft repair ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1945. Originally laid down as LST-963, she was converted during construction to serve as a repair vessel for landing craft, providing critical support during the closing months of World War II. After the war, USS Sphinx participated in various post-war operations and later saw service during the Vietnam War, where she provided repair and logistical support for riverine and coastal forces. Decommissioned in 1971, Sphinx was eventually struck from the Naval Vessel Register in 1975, concluding her distinguished service.

ComDesDiv 12, formally known as Destroyer Division 12, was a unit of the United States Navy that saw distinguished service during the early years of World War II. Commissioned before the war, the division was initially part of the Asiatic Fleet, operating in the Western Pacific and Southeast Asia. During the opening months of the Pacific War, ships of ComDesDiv 12 participated in the defense of the Philippines and the Dutch East Indies, engaging in several notable actions against superior Japanese naval forces. Despite suffering losses, the division’s actions delayed enemy advances and contributed to the broader Allied war effort in the region.

The United States Naval Forces Central Command (USNAVCENT), headquartered in Manama, Bahrain, operates as the United States Fifth Fleet (COMFIFTHFLT). Reactivated in 1995, the Fifth Fleet traces its origins to World War II operations in the Pacific but now focuses on the vital waters of the Middle East, including the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Arabian Sea, and parts of the Indian Ocean. COMFIFTHFLT is responsible for ensuring maritime security, conducting joint and combined naval operations, and safeguarding the free flow of commerce in a region critical to global energy supplies. Over the years, it has played a key role in operations such as enforcing sanctions, counter-piracy, and supporting major campaigns including Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

USS Forrest Sherman (DD-931) was the lead ship of her class of destroyers in the United States Navy, commissioned on November 9, 1955. Named after Admiral Forrest Percival Sherman, she served prominently during the Cold War, participating in various NATO exercises, Mediterranean deployments, and crisis responses, including the Cuban Missile Crisis. Throughout her career, USS Forrest Sherman was involved in anti-submarine warfare, escort duties, and goodwill visits to numerous foreign ports. After nearly three decades of service, she was decommissioned on November 5, 1982, and later used as a test ship before being scrapped.

FLEASWTRACENPAC, or Fleet Anti-Submarine Warfare Training Center Pacific, was established to provide advanced training in anti-submarine warfare (ASW) for U.S. Navy personnel in the Pacific Fleet. Located in San Diego, California, the center played a crucial role during the Cold War, enhancing the Navy’s capabilities to detect and counter underwater threats from potential adversaries. FLEASWTRACENPAC offered both classroom instruction and practical exercises using the latest sonar technology and tactics. Over the decades, its training programs contributed significantly to maintaining U.S. maritime superiority in the Pacific theater.

The designation "FN USN" typically refers to "Fireman, United States Navy," which is an enlisted engineering rate within the U.S. Navy rather than a specific unit. The Fireman rating has its origins in the early days of steam-powered naval vessels, where Firemen were responsible for maintaining boilers and propulsion systems. Over time, the role evolved to include a broad range of engineering and mechanical tasks aboard ships and submarines, supporting essential operations. Today, U.S. Navy Firemen receive training in various engineering disciplines and often progress into specialized ratings such as Machinist’s Mate or Electrician’s Mate, playing a crucial part in maintaining fleet readiness and operational capability.

Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 8 (HC-8), known as the "Dragon Whales," was a United States Navy helicopter squadron established in 1984. Based at Naval Air Station Norfolk, Virginia, HC-8 provided vital vertical replenishment (VERTREP), search and rescue (SAR), and logistics support for the U.S. Atlantic Fleet. The squadron operated the CH-46 Sea Knight and later the MH-60S Seahawk helicopters, playing a key role in fleet support operations, humanitarian missions, and exercises worldwide. HC-8 was deactivated in 2005 as part of the Navy's reorganization and transition to the Helicopter Sea Combat (HSC) community.