U.S. Navy

USS Petrel (ASR-14) was a Chanticleer-class submarine rescue ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1946. Designed to support submarine rescue and salvage operations, Petrel played a critical role during the Cold War, participating in numerous training exercises and real-world missions, including the search and recovery efforts following the loss of USS Thresher (SSN-593) in 1963. Throughout her service, she provided vital assistance to distressed submarines and contributed to advancements in deep-sea diving and rescue technology. USS Petrel was decommissioned in 1991 after more than four decades of dedicated service.

The **USS Reclaimer (ARS-42)** was a Bolster-class rescue and salvage ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1946. She served primarily in the Pacific, supporting fleet operations by conducting salvage, towing, and rescue missions for damaged or stranded vessels. During the Vietnam War, Reclaimer played a crucial role in recovery and repair operations, often working in hazardous combat zones to support naval and allied forces. After decades of distinguished service, she was decommissioned in 1994 and later transferred to the Mexican Navy.

USS Rushmore (LSD 47) is a Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship commissioned into the United States Navy on June 1, 1991. Designed to support amphibious operations, Rushmore has participated in numerous deployments, including missions in the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean, and the Arabian Gulf. The ship has supported humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and combat operations, notably contributing to Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. With a focus on transporting and launching amphibious craft and vehicles, Rushmore continues to serve as a vital asset for the U.S. Navy’s expeditionary warfare capabilities.

USS San Jacinto (CG-56) is a Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser commissioned into the United States Navy on January 23, 1988. Named after the Battle of San Jacinto, the ship has played a significant role in various operations, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom, providing air defense, maritime security, and strike capabilities. San Jacinto gained international attention in 2009 for its involvement in the rescue of Captain Richard Phillips from Somali pirates. Throughout its service, USS San Jacinto has exemplified versatility and strength, supporting U.S. naval missions across the globe until its decommissioning in 2022.

USS SCOTT (DDG-995) was a Kidd-class guided missile destroyer commissioned into the United States Navy in 1981. Originally built for the Iranian Navy, she was acquired by the U.S. after the Iranian Revolution and named after Rear Admiral Norman Scott, a Medal of Honor recipient. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, SCOTT conducted various operations, including deployments to the Mediterranean, Atlantic, and Persian Gulf, supporting U.S. interests and participating in multinational exercises. She was decommissioned in 1998 and later transferred to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Navy, where she served as ROCS Kee Lung (DDG-1801).

USS Sides (FFG-14) was an Oliver Hazard Perry-class guided-missile frigate commissioned into the United States Navy in 1981. Named in honor of Admiral John H. Sides, the ship served primarily in the Pacific Fleet, undertaking missions ranging from escort duties to anti-submarine warfare and maritime security operations. USS Sides notably participated in Operation Earnest Will in the late 1980s, escorting reflagged Kuwaiti tankers through the Persian Gulf during the Iran-Iraq War. After nearly two decades of service, the frigate was decommissioned in 2001 and later scrapped.

USS Spartanburg County (LST-1192) was a Newport-class tank landing ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1971. Designed for rapid loading and unloading of tanks, vehicles, and troops, she participated in numerous amphibious training exercises and NATO operations throughout her service. The ship played a vital logistical role in supporting U.S. and allied forces during the Cold War, particularly in the Atlantic and Mediterranean regions. After over two decades of service, USS Spartanburg County was decommissioned in 1994 and later transferred to the Royal Malaysian Navy.

USS Tecumseh (SSBN-628) was a Lafayette-class ballistic missile submarine commissioned by the United States Navy in 1964. Named after the renowned Shawnee leader Tecumseh, the submarine played a vital role during the Cold War as part of the nation’s strategic nuclear deterrent, conducting numerous deterrent patrols armed with Polaris and later Poseidon ballistic missiles. Tecumseh operated primarily in the Atlantic, ensuring the effectiveness of the United States’ second-strike capability. After nearly three decades of service, she was decommissioned in 1993 and later scrapped under the Nuclear-Powered Ship and Submarine Recycling Program.

USS Wallace L. Lind (DD-703) was an Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer commissioned by the United States Navy in March 1944. She saw extensive service in World War II, participating in the Pacific campaign, including operations off Okinawa and providing anti-aircraft and fire support. In the Korean War, Wallace L. Lind conducted bombardment and screening duties, supporting United Nations forces on the peninsula. The destroyer continued her service through the Cold War era, participating in various exercises and deployments, until she was decommissioned in 1973 and later transferred to the Republic of Korea Navy.

USS William R. Rush (DD-714) was a Gearing-class destroyer commissioned in 1945, just as World War II was ending. Named after Rear Admiral William R. Rush, the ship served prominently during the Cold War era, participating in operations and exercises with both the Atlantic and Mediterranean fleets. She saw action during the Korean War, providing gunfire support and performing escort duties. The destroyer continued her service through the Vietnam War, before being decommissioned in 1978 and later transferred to the Republic of Korea Navy.

Attack Squadron 44 (VA-44), originally established as VF-44 in 1945, was a United States Navy attack squadron. Re-designated as VA-44 in 1950, the unit participated in carrier-based operations, primarily focusing on attack and training missions. Throughout its service, VA-44 operated a variety of aircraft, including the F4U Corsair and later the A-4 Skyhawk. The squadron was also notable for serving as a Fleet Replacement Squadron, training pilots and maintenance personnel until its disestablishment in 1970.

Attack Squadron 56 (VA-56), known as the "Champions," was a United States Navy attack squadron established on 4 July 1956. Initially operating the F9F-8B Cougar, the squadron later transitioned to the A-4 Skyhawk and A-7 Corsair II aircraft. VA-56 participated in major Cold War and Vietnam War operations, including multiple combat deployments to Southeast Asia from the aircraft carriers USS Hancock and USS Midway. The squadron was disestablished on 29 September 1986 after three decades of distinguished service.

VAQ-132, known as the "Scorpions," is a distinguished U.S. Navy electronic attack squadron established in 1955. Originally formed as Patrol Squadron (VP) 911 and later redesignated as Heavy Attack Squadron (VAH-132), the unit transitioned to electronic warfare in 1968, becoming the Navy's first operational EA-6B Prowler squadron. Over its history, VAQ-132 has participated in numerous major operations, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Odyssey Dawn. The squadron transitioned to the cutting-edge EA-18G Growler in 2009, continuing its vital mission of electronic attack and suppression of enemy air defenses.

VF-194, also known as Fighter Squadron 194, was a U.S. Navy aviation unit established on May 18, 1955. The squadron was nicknamed the "Red Lightnings" and was primarily equipped with the FJ-3 Fury and later the F-8 Crusader fighter aircraft. VF-194 served with distinction aboard various aircraft carriers, participating in numerous deployments in the Pacific and supporting U.S. interests during the Cold War. The squadron was disestablished on March 1, 1958, after less than three years of active service.

Strike Fighter Squadron 125 (VFA-125), known as the "Rough Raiders," was originally established on November 13, 1980, at Naval Air Station Lemoore, California. It served as the U.S. Navy’s first F/A-18 Hornet Fleet Replacement Squadron, responsible for training pilots and maintenance crews on the F/A-18 aircraft. VFA-125 was deactivated in 2010, but reactivated in 2017 to become the Navy’s first F-35C Lightning II Fleet Replacement Squadron, training the next generation of carrier-based stealth fighter pilots. Throughout its history, VFA-125 has played a key role in advancing naval aviation and supporting fleet readiness with cutting-edge aircraft.

Strike Fighter Squadron 137 (VFA-137), known as the "Kestrels," was established on July 2, 1985, at Naval Air Station Lemoore, California. Originally flying the F/A-18A Hornet, the squadron transitioned to the F/A-18E Super Hornet in 2003, enhancing its combat capabilities. VFA-137 has participated in numerous deployments, supporting operations such as Southern Watch, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom aboard various aircraft carriers. The squadron is renowned for its operational excellence and has earned several awards for its performance and safety record.

Patrol Squadron 7 (VP-7) was a United States Navy patrol squadron established originally during World War II. Reactivated several times, its final designation as VP-7 occurred in 1948, operating primarily from NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Throughout the Cold War, VP-7 flew maritime patrol and anti-submarine warfare missions, first with the P2V Neptune and later the P-3 Orion aircraft. The squadron played a significant role in Atlantic fleet operations, including surveillance during the Cuban Missile Crisis, before being disestablished in 1969.

Sea Control Squadron 35 (VS-35), also known as the "Blue Wolves," was a U.S. Navy anti-submarine warfare squadron. The squadron was originally established during World War II and went through several periods of activation and deactivation throughout its history. Most notably, VS-35 was reactivated in 1986 and operated the S-3 Viking aircraft from aircraft carriers, providing anti-submarine, surface surveillance, and electronic warfare capabilities. The squadron was based at Naval Air Station North Island, California, and participated in multiple deployments before being decommissioned in 2005.

VT-26, also known as Training Squadron Twenty-Six, is a United States Navy training squadron established in 1960 at Naval Air Station Chase Field in Beeville, Texas. The squadron's primary mission has been to train naval aviators in advanced multi-engine and jet aircraft, originally utilizing the T-2 Buckeye and later the T-45 Goshawk. Throughout its history, VT-26 played a vital role in preparing pilots for fleet assignments and carrier operations. The squadron relocated to Naval Air Station Corpus Christi, Texas, where it continues to support naval aviation training and excellence.

The 9th Marine Amphibious Brigade (9th MAB) was a rapid deployment force of the United States Marine Corps, established to provide amphibious and expeditionary capabilities in the Pacific region. Activated during the Vietnam War, the 9th MAB played a crucial role in contingency operations, including the evacuation of Saigon during Operation Frequent Wind in 1975. The unit was often tasked with crisis response missions, humanitarian assistance, and joint exercises throughout Asia. The brigade was eventually redesignated, with its legacy continuing in the modern expeditionary units of the USMC.

Assault Craft Unit FOUR (ACU-4) is a United States Navy amphibious unit established in 1963. Stationed at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story in Virginia, ACU-4 is the Navy’s primary operational command for Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) operations on the East Coast. The unit’s mission is to provide rapid ship-to-shore movement of troops, vehicles, and equipment in support of amphibious and expeditionary warfare. Over the decades, ACU-4 has supported numerous operations, exercises, and humanitarian missions, demonstrating its vital role in enhancing the Navy and Marine Corps’ operational flexibility and reach.

Antarctic Support Activities (ASA) was a U.S. Navy unit tasked with logistical and operational support for scientific missions in Antarctica during Operation Deep Freeze. In the 1968-69 season, ASA played a critical role in maintaining supply lines, constructing and servicing bases such as McMurdo Station, and ensuring safe air and sea transport for personnel and equipment. The unit operated in extremely challenging conditions, coordinating with civilian scientists and other military branches to enable vital research on the continent. Their efforts during this period contributed significantly to the advancement of polar science and reinforced American presence in Antarctica.

Combat Heavy Battalion 10 (CHB10) is a specialized engineering unit within the military known for its expertise in construction, demolition, and logistical support in combat zones. Established in the early 1990s, CHB10 has participated in numerous overseas operations, including peacekeeping missions and infrastructure rebuilding efforts in conflict-affected regions. The unit is recognized for its rapid deployment capabilities, often being among the first to establish forward operating bases and critical supply routes. Over the years, CHB10 has earned multiple commendations for its effectiveness, adaptability, and contributions to joint military operations.

Comando de Cruzeiros do Atlântico (Com Cru Des Lant) is a Brazilian Navy unit responsible for the command and operational control of cruisers assigned to the Atlantic theater. Established in the mid-20th century, it played a key role in organizing and coordinating naval operations involving Brazil’s cruiser force, particularly during periods of heightened maritime security concerns. Over the decades, Com Cru Des Lant contributed to training exercises, joint operations with allied navies, and the modernization of surface combatant tactics within the Brazilian fleet. Its legacy reflects Brazil’s commitment to maintaining a capable and responsive naval presence in the South Atlantic.