U.S. Navy

USS Topeka (CLG-8) was a Cleveland-class light cruiser of the United States Navy, originally commissioned in 1944 during World War II. She served in the Pacific theater, participating in operations off Okinawa and supporting the occupation of Japan. After the war, Topeka was decommissioned but later modernized and recommissioned in 1960 as a guided missile cruiser (CLG-8), equipped with the Talos missile system. During the 1960s, she served extensively in the Western Pacific, including multiple deployments to Vietnam, providing naval gunfire support and serving as flagship for various task groups before her final decommissioning in 1969.

USS **Virgo (AKA-20)** was an Andromeda-class attack cargo ship commissioned by the United States Navy in December 1943. She served prominently in the Pacific Theater during World War II, participating in major operations such as the invasions of Saipan, Leyte, and Okinawa, where she delivered troops, equipment, and supplies under combat conditions. After the war, Virgo supported occupation forces in Asia and was decommissioned in 1946, only to be recommissioned for service during the Korean War and later the Vietnam War, providing vital logistical support. The USS Virgo earned multiple battle stars for her distinguished service before being decommissioned for the final time in 1971.

USS Waldron (DD-699) was an Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer commissioned by the United States Navy in 1944. She saw active service in the Pacific Theater during World War II, participating in operations such as the Battle of Okinawa and supporting carrier task forces with anti-aircraft and anti-submarine duties. After the war, Waldron served in the Korean War, providing naval gunfire support and screening aircraft carriers. She continued to serve through the Cold War era, including deployments with the U.S. 6th and 7th Fleets, until her decommissioning in 1973.

The USS Willis A. Lee (DL-4) was a Mitscher-class destroyer leader commissioned by the United States Navy in 1954. Named after Vice Admiral Willis A. Lee, the ship was designed as a fast, heavily armed vessel capable of leading destroyer squadrons and performing anti-submarine warfare during the early years of the Cold War. Throughout her service, she participated in numerous training exercises, NATO operations, and goodwill visits, helping to demonstrate American naval power and cooperation with allied fleets. The USS Willis A. Lee was decommissioned in 1969, marking the end of her 15 years of active service.

Attack Squadron 172 (VA-172), known as the "Blue Bolts," was a United States Navy attack squadron established in August 1945 as VBF-82. The squadron was redesignated VA-172 in August 1948. VA-172 served with distinction during the Korean War, flying the F2H Banshee and later the A-4 Skyhawk on numerous combat missions from aircraft carriers. The squadron participated in several major deployments in the Atlantic and Mediterranean, supporting U.S. interests during the Cold War. VA-172 was disestablished on January 15, 1971, after more than 25 years of service.

Attack Squadron 25 (VA-25), known as the "Fist of the Fleet," was originally established as Torpedo Squadron VT-17 in January 1943. The squadron saw significant action during World War II, participating in major Pacific campaigns including strikes against the Japanese home islands. Redesignated multiple times, it became VA-25 in 1959 and played a key role during the Vietnam War, flying A-1 Skyraiders and later A-7 Corsair IIs in close air support and strike missions. The unit was disestablished on 1 November 1996, marking over five decades of distinguished service.

Attack Squadron 95 (VA-95), known as the "Green Lizards," was a United States Navy attack squadron established on April 1, 1972. The squadron primarily flew the A-6 Intruder, a twin-engine, all-weather attack aircraft, and was based at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington. VA-95 participated in several significant operations, including deployments during the Vietnam War’s final stages and Operation Desert Storm in 1991, where it conducted precision strike missions against Iraqi targets. The squadron was deactivated on October 31, 1995, as part of post-Cold War reductions in naval aviation.

VAP-61, known as "The World Recorders," was a U.S. Navy Heavy Photographic Squadron established in 1951. The unit specialized in aerial photographic reconnaissance, providing critical intelligence and mapping support during the Korean War and later in the Vietnam War. VAP-61 flew aircraft such as the AJ-2P Savage and later the RA-3B Skywarrior, conducting high-risk missions over hostile territory. The squadron was decommissioned in 1971, having played a key role in advancing naval photographic reconnaissance capabilities.

Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 111 (VAW-111), known as the "Reef Raiders," was established on April 27, 1967, as part of the United States Navy's airborne early warning community. The squadron was equipped with the E-1B Tracer aircraft, providing essential airborne surveillance and command and control capabilities for carrier strike groups during the Vietnam War. VAW-111 operated primarily from NAS North Island and deployed aboard various aircraft carriers, playing a crucial role in fleet air defense and early warning missions in the Western Pacific. The squadron was disestablished on March 1, 1971, as part of the transition to more advanced airborne early warning platforms.

VF-1, known as the "Wolfpack," was a United States Navy fighter squadron established on October 14, 1972. It was the first fleet squadron to operate the F-14 Tomcat, playing a pioneering role in integrating the iconic aircraft into carrier operations. Throughout its service, VF-1 participated in key deployments during the Cold War, providing air superiority and fleet defense in the Pacific and Indian Oceans. The squadron was disestablished on October 1, 1993, after over two decades of distinguished service.

Fighter Squadron 202 (VF-202), known as the "Superheats," was a U.S. Naval Reserve fighter squadron established on July 1, 1970. Based at Naval Air Station Dallas, Texas, the unit was part of the Naval Air Reserve Force and flew the F-8H Crusader before transitioning to the F-4N/S Phantom II and later the F-14A Tomcat. VF-202 participated in numerous training exercises and provided fleet support, ensuring reservist aviators remained proficient with frontline Navy fighter aircraft and tactics. The squadron was disestablished on December 31, 1994, as part of post–Cold War reductions in force.

Strike Fighter Squadron 131 (VFA-131), known as the "Wildcats," was established on October 2, 1983. The squadron initially flew the F/A-18A Hornet and became operational at NAS Lemoore before moving to NAS Cecil Field and later NAS Oceana. VFA-131 participated in major operations including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Southern Watch, and Operation Enduring Freedom, conducting strike, escort, and close air support missions. Over its history, the Wildcats have been recognized for their combat performance and have played a vital role in U.S. Navy carrier air wing deployments worldwide.

Strike Fighter Squadron 136 (VFA-136), known as the "Knighthawks," was established on July 1, 1985. Originally equipped with the F/A-18A Hornet, the squadron quickly became a key component of U.S. Navy carrier air wings, participating in numerous deployments and exercises worldwide. VFA-136 saw combat action during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, providing strike and support missions over Iraq and Kuwait. Over the years, the squadron has transitioned to the advanced F/A-18E Super Hornet and continues to serve as a frontline strike fighter unit, supporting U.S. interests across the globe.

Strike Fighter Squadron 15 (VFA-15), known as the “Valions,” was a United States Navy fighter squadron established in April 1942, originally as Torpedo Squadron VT-4. Over the decades, the squadron underwent several redesignations, becoming VFA-15 in 1986 upon transitioning to the F/A-18 Hornet. VFA-15 participated in numerous key operations, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom, providing strike and air support missions from aircraft carriers. The squadron was based at Naval Air Station Oceana before being deactivated in 2017 as part of a Navy force restructuring.

Strike Fighter Squadron 87 (VFA-87), known as the "Golden Warriors," was established in 1968 as Attack Squadron 87 (VA-87) and originally flew the A-7 Corsair II. The squadron transitioned to the F/A-18 Hornet in 1986 and was redesignated as VFA-87. Over its history, VFA-87 has participated in major operations, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom, conducting strike and combat air patrol missions. The squadron is based at Naval Air Station Oceana and continues to serve as a front-line strike fighter unit in the U.S. Navy.

Patrol Squadron FIVE (VP-5), known as the "Mad Foxes," was established in 1937 and is one of the U.S. Navy’s oldest maritime patrol squadrons. Initially equipped with P2Y flying boats, VP-5 played a significant role in anti-submarine warfare during World War II, operating in the Atlantic to protect Allied shipping from German U-boats. Over the decades, the squadron transitioned through various aircraft, including the P-3 Orion, and has conducted missions ranging from surveillance and reconnaissance to search and rescue. Today, VP-5 flies the advanced P-8A Poseidon, continuing its legacy of excellence in maritime patrol and reconnaissance operations worldwide.

Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 58 (VR-58), known as the "Sunseekers," is a United States Navy Reserve transport squadron established in 1977. Based at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Florida, VR-58 operates the C-40A Clipper aircraft to provide worldwide air logistics support for the fleet. Throughout its history, the squadron has participated in numerous operations and exercises, delivering critical cargo, mail, and personnel for U.S. and allied forces. VR-58 has earned multiple awards for its outstanding safety record and operational excellence in supporting both peacetime and contingency missions.

Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 7 (VR-7) was a United States Navy aviation unit established to provide essential air logistics support. Formed during the post-World War II era, VR-7 operated a variety of transport aircraft, including the R6D (C-118 Liftmaster) and later the C-130 Hercules, to deliver personnel, cargo, and mail to Navy and Marine Corps units worldwide. The squadron was based at Naval Air Station Moffett Field, California, and played a vital role in supporting fleet operations during both peacetime and conflict. VR-7 was eventually disestablished in 1972 as part of a reorganization of Navy logistics squadrons.

Fleet Tactical Support Squadron 8 (VR-8) was a U.S. Navy aviation unit tasked with providing air logistics support. Established during World War II, VR-8 operated a variety of transport aircraft, including the R4D Skytrain and later the C-130 Hercules, to move personnel, cargo, and mail between bases and theaters of operation. Throughout its service, VR-8 played a crucial role in supporting naval operations by ensuring the timely delivery of essential supplies. The squadron was eventually disestablished as part of postwar restructuring and advancements in naval air logistics.

Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 30 (VRC-30), known as the "Providers," was established in 1966 to provide Carrier Onboard Delivery (COD) services to the U.S. Navy’s Pacific Fleet. Operating the Grumman C-2A Greyhound aircraft, VRC-30 played a critical role in transporting personnel, mail, and high-priority cargo between shore bases and aircraft carriers at sea. The squadron supported multiple combat and humanitarian operations, including during the Vietnam War, Operations Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom. After more than five decades of distinguished service, VRC-30 was deactivated in 2023 as the Navy transitioned to the CMV-22B Osprey for COD missions.

**VRF-31** is a Fleet Logistics Support Squadron of the United States Navy, established to provide rapid aerial transport for personnel, cargo, and high-priority logistics. The squadron traces its origins to the broader Naval Air Reserve Force but was formally designated as VRF-31 in the 21st century as part of the Navy’s effort to modernize and streamline logistics operations. Operating aircraft such as the C-40A Clipper, VRF-31 plays a vital role in supporting fleet readiness, enabling the fast movement of supplies and personnel across the globe. The unit’s contributions ensure that the U.S. Navy maintains logistical superiority and operational flexibility in both peacetime and during crises.

Training Squadron TEN (VT-10), known as the "Wildcats," was established in May 1960 at Naval Air Station Pensacola, Florida. Initially formed to provide basic and intermediate flight training for Naval Flight Officers, VT-10 played a critical role in preparing aviators for assignments in various fleet aircraft. Over the decades, the squadron has adapted its curriculum to incorporate new technologies and evolving mission requirements, including advanced navigation and electronic warfare training. Today, VT-10 continues to serve as a cornerstone in the training pipeline, shaping future generations of Naval Flight Officers for the United States Navy, Marine Corps, and allied nations.

VU-7, known as Utility Squadron Seven, was a United States Navy utility squadron established during World War II. The squadron was primarily tasked with providing target towing, radar calibration, and other utility services to fleet units, supporting both training and operational readiness. Stationed at various locations over its service life, including Naval Air Station Barbers Point in Hawaii, VU-7 operated a variety of aircraft such as the JD-1 Invader and the F6F Hellcat. The unit played a crucial behind-the-scenes role in preparing naval aviators and fleet units for combat operations before its eventual disestablishment in the late 1950s.

AMS First Class is a designation often associated with the rank of Aviation Structural Mechanic, First Class (AM1), within the United States Navy. Established as a specialized rating in naval aviation maintenance, AMS personnel have played a crucial role in ensuring the structural integrity and operational readiness of Navy aircraft since World War II. These skilled technicians are responsible for the maintenance, repair, and inspection of aircraft fuselages, wings, landing gear, and hydraulic systems. Throughout numerous conflicts and peacetime operations, AMS First Class sailors have demonstrated technical expertise and dedication, contributing significantly to the effectiveness and safety of naval aviation units worldwide.