U.S. Navy

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 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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Naval Technical Training Center (NTTC) Meridian, located at Naval Air Station Meridian in Mississippi, was established in 1974 to provide technical training for enlisted personnel in the U.S. Navy. The command primarily delivers specialized training in administrative, personnel, and logistics fields, supporting the Navy’s human resources and supply operations worldwide. Over the years, NTTC Meridian has adapted its curriculum to incorporate evolving technologies and modern Navy requirements, ensuring sailors are well-prepared for fleet assignments. The center remains a vital component in the Navy’s mission to maintain readiness and professionalism across support roles.

PHIBCB ONE, or **Naval Mobile Construction Battalion ONE (PHIBCB ONE)**, was established in 1942 as part of the U.S. Navy’s efforts to provide specialized construction capabilities for amphibious operations during World War II. The unit played a critical role in the Pacific Theater, constructing and maintaining essential port and beach facilities to support landing forces during major campaigns. Over the decades, PHIBCB ONE has continued to support U.S. Navy and Marine Corps operations, specializing in ship-to-shore movement of troops, equipment, and supplies. Today, the battalion remains an essential element of the Naval Construction Force, ready to deploy worldwide in support of both combat and humanitarian missions.

River Division 533 was a unit of the U.S. Navy’s “Brown Water Navy” during the Vietnam War, operating as part of Task Force 116, also known as Operation Game Warden. Established in 1967, the division conducted river patrols and interdiction missions along the Mekong Delta’s complex waterways to prevent Viet Cong movements and supply routes. Crews aboard Patrol Boat, River (PBR) craft engaged in frequent small-arms combat, ambushes, and boarding operations, facing constant threats from mines and guerrilla attacks. River Division 533 played a crucial role in maintaining control over vital riverine routes until the drawdown of U.S. forces in the early 1970s.

Rodman Naval Station was a United States Navy base located on the west bank of the Panama Canal near Balboa, Panama. Established in 1943 during World War II, it served as a key logistical and operational support facility for the U.S. Navy’s Pacific operations, providing repair, resupply, and staging services for ships transiting the canal. Throughout the Cold War, Rodman Naval Station played a crucial role in U.S. strategic interests in Latin America and the protection of the canal. The base was returned to Panama on July 1, 1999, as part of the Torrijos–Carter Treaties, marking the end of over five decades of American military presence at the site.

Reconnaissance Attack (Heavy) Squadron 3 (RVAH-3), also known as the "Sea Dragons," was established on 15 June 1957 at Naval Air Station Sanford, Florida. Initially formed as Heavy Attack Squadron 3 (VAH-3), it served as a replacement training unit for crews and maintenance personnel operating the A-3 Skywarrior and later the RA-5C Vigilante. In 1964, the squadron was redesignated RVAH-3 to reflect its new focus on reconnaissance missions. RVAH-3 continued training aviators and support crews for the Navy's high-speed reconnaissance aircraft until its disestablishment on 1 February 1979.