U.S. Navy

Helicopter Training Squadron EIGHTEEN (HT-18), known as "Vigilant Eagles," is a United States Navy helicopter training squadron established on March 1, 1972. Based at Naval Air Station Whiting Field in Milton, Florida, HT-18 was created to meet the growing demand for naval helicopter pilots during the Vietnam War era. The squadron provides advanced helicopter flight training to Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and allied student aviators, primarily utilizing the TH-57 Sea Ranger. Over the decades, HT-18 has played a crucial role in producing highly skilled rotary-wing aviators, ensuring the operational readiness of U.S. and allied naval forces.

The Marine Detachment aboard USS Kitty Hawk (CVA-63) served as an integral unit from the ship’s commissioning in 1961 until the phasing out of shipboard Marine detachments in the late 20th century. Tasked with providing ship security, ceremonial duties, and supporting nuclear weapons security, the Marines played a crucial role during Kitty Hawk’s numerous deployments, including combat operations in the Vietnam War and later in the Indian Ocean and Persian Gulf. The detachment participated in significant events such as the 1972 Vietnam Easter Offensive and Operation Frequent Wind, the evacuation of Saigon. Renowned for their discipline and professionalism, the Marines of the Kitty Hawk contributed to the ship’s operational readiness and naval tradition throughout its distinguished service.

Mine Squadron 10 (MinRon 10), based in Charleston, South Carolina, has played a significant role in U.S. naval mine warfare. Established during the Cold War, the squadron was tasked with the deployment, maintenance, and operational readiness of mine countermeasure ships and personnel. Throughout its service, Mine Squadron 10 participated in numerous training exercises along the Atlantic coast and supported fleet operations to ensure safe maritime navigation. The unit has contributed to advancements in mine detection and clearance techniques, reflecting Charleston’s longstanding importance as a strategic naval hub.

Naval Air Station (NAS) Fallon, located in Fallon, Nevada, was commissioned in 1942 as a pivotal training base during World War II. Over the decades, it evolved into the premier air-to-air and air-to-ground training facility for the U.S. Navy. In 1996, NAS Fallon became home to the Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center (NSAWC), which includes the famed TOPGUN program. Today, NAS Fallon remains a critical site for advanced tactical training, supporting carrier air wings and enhancing naval aviation readiness.

**Naval Air Station (NAS) Kodiak, Alaska**, was established in June 1941 as a key U.S. Navy installation during World War II. Serving as the principal naval air base in Alaska, NAS Kodiak played a crucial role in defending the North Pacific and supporting the Aleutian Islands Campaign against Japanese forces. The base hosted patrol squadrons, reconnaissance missions, and anti-submarine operations throughout the war. After WWII, NAS Kodiak remained active, supporting Cold War and maritime operations, before being transferred to the U.S. Coast Guard in 1972 and re-designated as Coast Guard Base Kodiak.

Naval Air Station (NAS) New York was commissioned in 1943 during World War II, located at Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn, New York. Originally established to support naval aviation operations, the station served as a vital training and operational base for Navy and Marine Corps pilots, as well as a hub for anti-submarine warfare patrols along the Atlantic coast. Throughout the war, NAS New York played a crucial role in aircraft maintenance, pilot training, and coastal defense. After the war, the station’s activity gradually declined, and it was decommissioned in 1971, with the site eventually becoming part of the Gateway National Recreation Area.

Naval Hospital Twentynine Palms, located aboard the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in Twentynine Palms, California, has served as a critical medical facility for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps since its establishment in 1952. Originally created to support the health and readiness of Marines and sailors training in the harsh desert environment, the hospital has expanded over the decades to provide comprehensive medical, dental, and emergency care. Throughout its history, Naval Hospital Twentynine Palms has played a vital role in supporting combat operations by ensuring rapid treatment and rehabilitation of service members preparing for and returning from deployments. Today, it remains an essential pillar of military healthcare, serving active duty personnel, their families, and retirees in the region.

Naval Hospital Jacksonville was commissioned in 1941 in response to the increased medical needs of the U.S. Navy during World War II. Located at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Florida, it has served as a critical healthcare facility for sailors, Marines, and their families throughout numerous conflicts, including the Korean War, Vietnam War, and operations in the Middle East. Over the decades, the hospital has expanded its services and facilities, becoming a leading center for military medicine and training. Today, Naval Hospital Jacksonville remains dedicated to providing high-quality medical care and readiness support to the Navy and the broader military community.

The Naval Postgraduate School (NPS), located in Monterey, California, was established in 1909 as the School of Marine Engineering at the U.S. Naval Academy. In 1951, it relocated to its current campus, taking over the former Hotel Del Monte, to better serve the advanced education needs of Navy officers. Over the decades, NPS has grown into a premier graduate research university, providing advanced degrees in engineering, science, and national security to U.S. military officers and international allies. Its interdisciplinary programs and research have significantly contributed to the technological and strategic advancement of the U.S. Navy and the broader Department of Defense.

Naval Regional Dental Center San Diego traces its origins to the early 20th century, supporting the rapidly expanding naval presence on the West Coast. Officially established as a dental care hub for fleet and shore-based personnel, it played a crucial role during World War II, providing essential dental services to thousands of sailors and Marines. Over the decades, the center modernized its facilities and expanded its mission to include advanced dental education, research, and comprehensive oral healthcare. Today, it remains a key component of Navy Medicine, ensuring operational readiness and the health of service members in the San Diego region.

The Naval Reserve Recruiting Command Denver was established to support the recruitment and administrative needs of the United States Naval Reserve in the Rocky Mountain region. Throughout its operational years, the command played a crucial role in enlisting and processing reservists, ensuring the readiness and integration of reserve personnel into active naval operations when required. Located in Denver, Colorado, the unit also collaborated with local communities and schools to promote naval service and strengthen reserve force numbers. Its mission contributed significantly to the overall manpower and effectiveness of the U.S. Navy Reserve until its functions were eventually consolidated with larger recruiting structures.

The Naval Weapons Evaluation Facility (NWEF) was established in 1947 at Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Its primary mission was to evaluate and ensure the compatibility and effectiveness of naval aircraft with nuclear weapons, conducting tests, modifications, and training for the Navy’s nuclear strike capabilities. Throughout the Cold War, NWEF played a critical role in advancing naval aviation armament and tactics, contributing significantly to the deterrence posture of the United States. In 1993, the facility’s functions were absorbed by the Air Force as part of defense realignment, marking the end of its independent operations.

NAVCOMUNIT LONDON UK, officially known as the Naval Communications Unit London, was established during the early years of the Cold War to provide secure naval communications between the United Kingdom and allied forces. Strategically located in London, the unit played a crucial role in supporting NATO operations by relaying encrypted messages and coordinating naval intelligence. Over the decades, NAVCOMUNIT LONDON UK adapted to technological advances, transitioning from traditional radio transmissions to sophisticated digital systems. The unit’s legacy endures as a vital component of multinational maritime security and intelligence-sharing efforts.

Naval Security Group Activity (NSGA) Winter Harbor, Maine, was established in 1935 on the Schoodic Peninsula as a United States Navy radio intercept and direction-finding station. Originally part of the Navy's growing network of signals intelligence (SIGINT) sites, NSGA Winter Harbor played a crucial role during World War II and the Cold War, tracking enemy communications and supporting national security efforts. The facility operated advanced radio and cryptologic equipment, contributing vital intelligence for fleet and national decision-makers. NSGA Winter Harbor was decommissioned in 2002, with its property later transferred to the National Park Service to become part of Acadia National Park.

Patrol Squadron SIX (VP-6), commonly referred to as PATRON-6, was a United States Navy maritime patrol squadron established in July 1943 during World War II. Initially flying the PBY Catalina and later the PB4Y-2 Privateer, the squadron conducted anti-submarine warfare, maritime patrol, and reconnaissance missions in the Pacific Theater. After the war, VP-6 transitioned to the P2V Neptune and participated in the Korean War, where it conducted surveillance and reconnaissance operations. The squadron continued its service through the Cold War, eventually flying the P-3 Orion before being disestablished in 1993.

Reconnaissance Attack (Heavy) Squadron 7 (RVAH-7), known as the "Peacemakers," was a United States Navy squadron established in December 1955. Originally designated as Heavy Attack Squadron 7 (VAH-7), the unit was redesignated RVAH-7 in 1966 when it transitioned from A-3 Skywarrior bombers to the RA-5C Vigilante, a supersonic reconnaissance aircraft. RVAH-7 played a significant role in aerial reconnaissance during the Vietnam War, conducting high-risk missions over North Vietnam from aircraft carriers. The squadron continued to serve throughout the Cold War until it was disestablished in September 1979 as part of the Navy's phase-out of the RA-5C aircraft.

SEAL Team TWO was established in January 1962 as one of the original two Navy SEAL teams, alongside SEAL Team ONE, to meet the growing need for unconventional warfare capabilities during the Cold War. Based at Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek in Virginia, SEAL Team TWO primarily focused on operations in Europe, the Arctic, and the Mediterranean. Throughout its history, the unit has participated in numerous conflicts and special operations, including missions in Vietnam, the Balkans, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Renowned for their maritime expertise and versatility, SEAL Team TWO continues to play a vital role in U.S. Naval Special Warfare operations around the globe.

Specwar, short for Special Warfare, is a designation commonly used for elite military units specializing in unconventional and high-risk operations. Formed in the late 20th century, Specwar units were established to address the growing need for rapid-response forces capable of counterterrorism, direct action, and reconnaissance missions behind enemy lines. These units are renowned for their rigorous selection process, advanced training in land, sea, and air operations, and proficiency with cutting-edge technology. Over the years, Specwar teams have played pivotal roles in numerous high-profile missions worldwide, earning a reputation for effectiveness, adaptability, and stealth.

The US Naval Communications Station Balboa, also known as Farfan Naval Radio Station, was established in the Panama Canal Zone to provide vital communications support for US naval operations in the region. Activated during the early 20th century, the station played a critical role during World War II and the Cold War, ensuring secure and reliable radio transmissions for the US fleet transiting the canal and operating in the Caribbean and Pacific theaters. Its strategic location near Balboa allowed it to serve as a key link in global naval communications networks. The station continued operations until the gradual turnover of US facilities to Panama, culminating with the implementation of the Panama Canal Treaties in 1999.

USS Ashland (LSD-48) is a Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1992. Named after the historic estate of Henry Clay, the ship has played a vital role in amphibious operations, transporting Marines, vehicles, and landing craft around the globe. Notably, USS Ashland participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, providing critical support for expeditionary missions. Over its service life, the ship has also been involved in humanitarian assistance and anti-piracy operations, reflecting its versatility and commitment to global maritime security.

USS **Barney (DDG-6)** was a Charles F. Adams-class guided missile destroyer commissioned by the United States Navy in 1962. Throughout her service, Barney participated in key Cold War operations, including patrols in the Mediterranean and support missions during the Vietnam War. The ship conducted NATO exercises, provided naval gunfire support, and took part in surveillance and escort duties. Decommissioned in 1990, USS Barney served nearly three decades before being stricken from the Naval Vessel Register and later scrapped.

USS Beatty (DD-756) was an Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer of the United States Navy, commissioned in March 1945. After serving during the final months of World War II, she participated in occupation duties in the Far East and supported postwar operations in the Pacific. Throughout the Cold War, Beatty operated primarily in the Atlantic and Mediterranean, undertaking NATO exercises, training cruises, and patrolling during the tense early years of the conflict. The destroyer was decommissioned in 1963 and later transferred to Greece, where she served as HS Kanaris (D212).

USS Bolster (ARS-38) was a Diver-class rescue and salvage ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1945. Built in Everett, Washington, she served during the final months of World War II, providing salvage, towing, and repair services in the Pacific Theater. Bolster continued her service through the Korean and Vietnam Wars, supporting naval operations by assisting damaged vessels and clearing harbors. After decades of distinguished service, she was decommissioned in 1994 and later became a museum ship in California.

USS Chosin (CG-65) is a Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser commissioned into the United States Navy in 1991. Named after the Chosin Reservoir Campaign of the Korean War, the ship has played a significant role in multiple operations, including supporting Operations Southern Watch and Enduring Freedom. Over its service, Chosin has conducted maritime security, air defense, and ballistic missile defense missions, demonstrating the versatility of the Aegis Combat System. The cruiser has also participated in numerous multinational exercises, strengthening alliances and promoting stability in key regions.