U.S. Navy

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.

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.

The Dental Corps at Great Lakes Naval Training Center has played a vital role in supporting the health and readiness of U.S. Navy personnel since the early 20th century. Established to provide dental care for recruits and personnel, the Dental Corps expanded significantly during both World Wars to meet the demands of rapidly increasing troop numbers. Over the decades, the unit has integrated advanced dental technologies and preventive care programs, ensuring sailors are fit for duty. Today, the Dental Corps at Great Lakes continues to deliver comprehensive dental services, supporting the mission of the Navy’s largest training installation.

Fleet Area Control and Surveillance Facility, San Diego (FACSFAC San Diego), was established in 1972 to provide airspace management, control, and surveillance services for military training and operations off the Southern California coast. Originally formed to support the growing need for safe and coordinated use of increasingly congested military and civilian airspace, FACSFAC San Diego became a critical command and control facility for naval and joint exercises, missile tests, and fleet training events. Over the years, the unit has adapted to evolving technologies and operational demands, ensuring seamless coordination between air, surface, and subsurface forces. Today, FACSFAC San Diego continues to play a vital role in maintaining readiness and safety for U.S. and allied forces operating in the Pacific region.

The FICLANT, or Fuerza del Mando de Canarias (Canary Islands Command), is a significant military unit of the Spanish Navy responsible for maritime operations in the Canary Islands area. Established as part of Spain’s efforts to reinforce its Atlantic and African maritime presence, FICLANT oversees naval security, defense, and cooperation with allied forces in the strategically vital waters off northwest Africa. The command conducts joint exercises, anti-piracy missions, and humanitarian operations, reflecting Spain’s commitment to regional stability. Over the years, FICLANT has adapted to evolving security challenges, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of Spanish naval strategy in the Atlantic.

FIRSTPAC, short for First Pacific Command, is a notional military unit representing a joint-service force responsible for operations in the Pacific theater. Established in the mid-20th century to address growing security concerns in the Asia-Pacific region, FIRSTPAC has played a pivotal role in major regional exercises, humanitarian missions, and strategic deterrence operations. The unit has participated in alliances and partnerships, notably supporting multinational efforts such as RIMPAC and Pacific Partnership. Over the decades, FIRSTPAC has evolved to incorporate advanced technologies and integrated command structures, ensuring readiness to respond to emerging threats across the Pacific Rim.

The Fleet Intelligence Center Pacific (FICPAC) is a key United States Navy intelligence unit based at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Established in 1955, its primary mission is to provide timely and accurate intelligence support to U.S. Pacific Fleet commanders, enabling informed decision-making and effective operational planning. Over the decades, FICPAC has played a crucial role in major Pacific operations, from the Cold War through recent conflicts, by analyzing and disseminating vital naval intelligence. Today, the center continues to support maritime operations and regional security by leveraging advanced technology and highly skilled intelligence professionals.

Fort Meade NSG, also known as the National Security Group at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, is a key military unit supporting the United States National Security Agency (NSA). Established as part of the U.S. Army's signals intelligence efforts during the Cold War, the unit has evolved to provide vital communications and cryptologic support to national defense operations. Over the decades, Fort Meade NSG has played a crucial role in intelligence gathering, cyber defense, and secure information dissemination for the U.S. military and intelligence community. Today, the unit remains at the forefront of safeguarding national security through advanced technological and cyber capabilities.

FRC West, or Fleet Readiness Center West, is a critical maintenance and repair facility for the United States Navy, located at Naval Air Station Lemoore, California. Established as part of the Navy's Fleet Readiness Center network, FRC West traces its origins to earlier aviation maintenance units supporting the Pacific Fleet's operational readiness. The unit specializes in providing comprehensive depot-level maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for naval aircraft, particularly the F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet. Through its skilled workforce and advanced technical capabilities, FRC West plays a vital role in sustaining naval aviation power in the Western United States.

USS **Spiegel Grove (LSD-32)** was a Thomaston-class dock landing ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1956. The ship was named after the Ohio estate of President Rutherford B. Hayes, "Spiegel Grove." Throughout her service, Spiegel Grove supported amphibious operations, training exercises, and deployments, including significant roles during the Cold War and the Vietnam War era. After decades of service, she was decommissioned in 1989 and later intentionally sunk in 2002 off the coast of Florida to serve as an artificial reef and popular diving site.

The Marine Detachment (MARDET) aboard USS Nimitz (CVN-68) was established to provide shipboard security, ceremonial duties, and limited operational support as part of the ship’s crew. Traditionally, MARDETs have played crucial roles on U.S. Navy aircraft carriers, ensuring the safety of nuclear weapons, enforcing discipline, and augmenting the ship's defense in emergencies. The Nimitz MARDET participated in numerous deployments, including operations in the Persian Gulf and Mediterranean, supporting both combat and humanitarian missions from the ship’s commissioning in 1975 until the early 1990s. The unit was disbanded in 1998 when the Navy ended the longstanding practice of assigning Marine Detachments to its surface ships.

McMurdo Station, established in 1955 by the United States Navy as part of Operation Deep Freeze, serves as the primary logistical hub for American operations in Antarctica. Initially constructed to support scientific research and maintain a strategic presence during the Cold War, the station was operated by the U.S. Navy until 1998, when responsibilities shifted to civilian contractors under the National Science Foundation. Over the decades, McMurdo Station has played a critical role in supporting international scientific collaboration and logistical operations across the continent. Although no longer a traditional military unit, its origins and operations remain deeply rooted in U.S. military history and polar exploration.

Naval Health Clinic New England traces its origins to the establishment of naval medical facilities in Newport, Rhode Island, during the late 19th century, supporting the growing needs of the U.S. Navy in the region. The clinic, as it exists today, was officially commissioned in 1998, consolidating several Navy medical departments across New England into a unified healthcare system. Throughout its history, the clinic has provided comprehensive medical, dental, and mental health services to active-duty personnel, retirees, and their families. Naval Health Clinic New England continues to play a vital role in maintaining the operational readiness of the Navy by delivering high-quality healthcare and supporting fleet and shore-based commands throughout the region.

The **Naval Ocean Processing Facility (NOPF)** is a specialized shore-based unit integral to the United States Navy’s undersea surveillance mission. Established in the late 20th century, NOPF units process and analyze data collected from the Sound Surveillance System (SOSUS) arrays and other underwater acoustic sensors. These facilities have played a critical role in anti-submarine warfare, particularly during the Cold War, by detecting and tracking submarine movements in strategic maritime regions. Over time, NOPFs have adapted to new technologies and evolving threats, continuing to provide vital acoustic intelligence and situational awareness to fleet commanders and allied forces.

NAVCOMMSTA Newport, RI (Naval Communication Station Newport, Rhode Island) was established in the mid-20th century as a critical communications hub for the United States Navy. Its primary mission was to support Atlantic Fleet operations by providing secure and reliable radio and message traffic, particularly during the Cold War era. The station played a vital role in transmitting naval communications and coordinating with other military installations along the Eastern Seaboard. Over time, advances in technology and changes in strategic priorities led to the consolidation and eventual decommissioning of many such stations, with NAVCOMMSTA Newport's functions absorbed by other commands in the late 20th century.

NAVFAC (Naval Facility) Iceland was established during the Cold War as part of the United States Navy’s Sound Surveillance System (SOSUS) network, tasked with monitoring Soviet submarine activity in the North Atlantic. Located at the Naval Air Station Keflavik, it began operations in 1966 and played a crucial role in undersea surveillance, using advanced acoustic arrays to detect and track submarine movements. The facility’s work significantly contributed to NATO’s maritime defense by providing early warning and enhancing anti-submarine warfare capabilities. NAVFAC Iceland remained operational until its closure in 1996, following the post-Cold War reduction in military threats and advances in surveillance technology.

The Navy Band Sea Chanters is the official chorus of the United States Navy, established in 1956 by then-Lieutenant Harold Fultz. Originally formed to sing patriotic songs for the State of the Nation dinner, the group quickly expanded its repertoire and mission. Over the decades, the Sea Chanters have performed at presidential inaugurations, state funerals, and high-profile national events, representing the Navy with musical excellence. Their performances include a wide range of genres, from traditional sea chanteys and patriotic anthems to Broadway tunes and contemporary music, serving as musical ambassadors for the Navy both at home and abroad.

Naval Air Station (NAS) Whiting Field, located in Milton, Florida, is a key training base for the United States Navy. The Naval Outlying Landing Field (NOLF) Choctaw Detachment (NOCD) Whiting Field supports primary and advanced flight training for Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and allied student aviators. Since its establishment during World War II, Whiting Field has played a crucial role in preparing pilots through its rigorous training programs and multiple auxiliary fields. Today, NOCD Whiting Field remains vital to naval aviation, producing generations of skilled aviators for military service.

NS Mayport, officially known as Naval Station Mayport, is a major United States Navy base located near Jacksonville, Florida. Commissioned in December 1942, it was established during World War II to support Atlantic Fleet operations and has since grown into one of the Navy’s largest surface fleet concentration areas. Over the decades, NS Mayport has hosted a variety of vessels, including aircraft carriers, destroyers, and frigates, playing a crucial role during the Cold War and in modern naval deployments. Today, it continues to serve as a strategic hub for Atlantic and Caribbean operations, supporting both U.S. and allied naval forces.