U.S. Navy

Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 52 (VR-52), known as the "Taskmasters," is a United States Navy Reserve squadron based at Naval Air Station Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey. Established in 1976, VR-52 operates the C-40A Clipper to provide worldwide air logistics support, including the transport of personnel and cargo for the Navy and other Department of Defense entities. The squadron has played a vital role in supporting military operations, humanitarian missions, and exercises both domestically and internationally. Over the decades, VR-52 has earned multiple commendations for its operational excellence and dedication to mission readiness.

Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 55 (VR-55), known as the "Minutemen," is a United States Navy Reserve squadron established in 1976. Initially operating the C-9B Skytrain II, VR-55 has provided worldwide air logistics support for the Navy, Marine Corps, and other Department of Defense agencies. The squadron transitioned to the C-130T Hercules aircraft in 1993, greatly expanding its cargo and passenger transport capabilities. VR-55 has played a significant role in numerous operations, including Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and humanitarian missions, earning recognition for its outstanding service and operational excellence.

VW-11 was a U.S. Navy Airborne Early Warning Squadron established in 1952, during the early years of the Cold War. Based at Naval Air Station Argentia, Newfoundland, the squadron operated Lockheed WV-2 Warning Star aircraft, which provided long-range radar surveillance over the North Atlantic as part of the Distant Early Warning (DEW) Line system. VW-11 played a critical role in detecting and tracking potential Soviet bomber threats approaching North America, contributing to continental air defense. The squadron was disestablished in 1965 as technological advancements in radar and airborne warning systems made their mission obsolete.

VW-2, also known as Airborne Early Warning Squadron Two, was a United States Navy squadron established in 1952. The unit was tasked with providing airborne early warning and surveillance using modified Lockheed WV-2 (later EC-121) Warning Star aircraft. VW-2 played a crucial role during the Cold War, patrolling the Atlantic Ocean to detect potential Soviet air or missile threats as part of the broader Continental Air Defense Command network. The squadron was disestablished in 1965 as technological advancements led to new methods of airspace monitoring.

**White House Duty** refers to the elite military units responsible for protecting the President of the United States and the White House. This mission traces its roots to the early 19th century, when Marines were first assigned to the Executive Mansion during Thomas Jefferson’s presidency. Over time, this responsibility evolved into formalized details, such as the U.S. Marine Corps’ White House Sentries and the U.S. Army’s Presidential Escort Platoon. Today, service members from multiple branches, including the Marine Corps, Army, Navy, and Air Force, are selected for White House Duty, performing ceremonial and security roles that symbolize honor, discipline, and trust at the nation’s highest office.

YRBM 21, or "Yard Repair, Berthing, and Messing Barge 21," served as a vital support vessel for the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. Commissioned in the late 1960s, YRBM 21 operated primarily in the Mekong Delta, providing essential repair facilities, berthing, and mess services to riverine and patrol craft engaged in Operation Game Warden and other brown-water naval operations. The barge was frequently stationed at forward operating bases along key waterways, enabling rapid maintenance and logistical support close to combat zones. YRBM 21's contributions were crucial to maintaining the operational readiness and effectiveness of the riverine forces throughout its deployment in Southeast Asia.

2DMAB Cherry Point, NC refers to the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW) Marine Air Control Group (MACG) Detachment, Marine Air Base (MAB), stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina. Established during World War II, Cherry Point has served as a key hub for Marine Corps aviation operations and training. The 2DMAB unit plays a vital role in providing aviation command and control, air traffic services, and operational support for Marine aviation missions. Over the decades, the unit and its parent organizations have supported major military operations, humanitarian missions, and exercises both at home and abroad, upholding a tradition of excellence in Marine Corps aviation support.

The 4th Marine Logistics Group (MLG) Marine Group Aid Station (GAS), located in Marietta, Georgia, is a key medical support unit within the U.S. Navy Reserves. Tasked with providing critical medical and dental care to Marine Corps forces, the unit ensures combat readiness and rapid response capabilities for both training and real-world deployments. Over the years, the Marietta-based Navy medical reservists have supported major exercises and mobilizations, including humanitarian missions and overseas operations. Their expertise enhances the health and effectiveness of Marine units across the 4th MLG, embodying the Navy's commitment to operational excellence and troop welfare.

USS Pandemus (ARL-18) was an Achelous-class landing craft repair ship commissioned by the United States Navy during World War II. Originally laid down as LST-646, she was converted to a repair ship and commissioned as USS Pandemus on 16 February 1945. During her service, Pandemus provided vital repair and maintenance support to landing craft and other vessels in the Pacific Theater, particularly at Okinawa. After the war, she assisted with occupation duties in the Far East before being decommissioned in 1947 and placed in reserve.

The Armed Forces Police Detachment (AFPD), Washington, D.C., was established in 1948 as a joint military unit responsible for maintaining law and order among service members in the National Capital Region. Composed of personnel from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps, the AFPD operated under the authority of the Joint Service Headquarters to provide law enforcement, security, and ceremonial support. Throughout its history, the detachment played a crucial role in coordinating responses to incidents involving military personnel and supporting high-profile events, such as presidential inaugurations and state funerals. The AFPD’s unique joint structure enabled it to bridge inter-service cooperation and ensure discipline among the armed forces stationed in the nation’s capital.

Attack Squadron 97 (VA-97), known as "ATKRON NINETY-SEVEN" and nicknamed the "Warhawks," was established by the U.S. Navy on June 1, 1967. The squadron initially flew the A-7 Corsair II attack aircraft and was assigned to the Pacific Fleet, participating in significant combat operations during the Vietnam War. VA-97 earned distinction for its service in Southeast Asia, conducting numerous strike missions from aircraft carriers. The unit continued its operational role into the late 20th century until its disestablishment on December 31, 1991.

CBU-411, or Combat Battalion Unit 411, is a United States Navy Seabee unit established in the aftermath of World War II to support the expanding infrastructure needs of the U.S. military. The unit has played a critical role in constructing and maintaining naval facilities, airfields, and support structures in both peacetime and conflict zones. Over the decades, CBU-411 has deployed to locations across the globe, including the Pacific and Middle East, providing vital engineering, construction, and disaster relief support. Their contributions have been recognized as integral to the success of numerous operations, reflecting the Seabee motto, "We Build, We Fight."

COMFAIRWESTPAC (Commander, Fleet Air Western Pacific), Atsugi, Japan, has served as a pivotal U.S. Navy aviation command in the Western Pacific since the post-World War II era. Established to oversee and coordinate the operations, training, and maintenance of naval aviation units in the region, COMFAIRWESTPAC played a crucial role during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, providing logistical and operational support. Stationed at Naval Air Facility Atsugi, the command acted as a hub for carrier air wing deployments and maritime patrol missions, contributing to regional security and U.S. interests in Asia. Over the decades, COMFAIRWESTPAC adapted to evolving strategic priorities before its eventual disestablishment and the realignment of its functions under new command structures.

**COMNAVFORV** stands for Commander, Naval Forces, Vietnam, a major United States Navy command during the Vietnam War. Established in 1966, COMNAVFORV was responsible for overseeing all U.S. naval operations in the Republic of Vietnam, including riverine warfare, coastal surveillance, and logistics support. The command directed critical operations such as Operation Market Time and Operation Game Warden, aimed at interdicting enemy supply lines and securing the waterways. COMNAVFORV played a vital role in supporting South Vietnamese and allied forces until its disestablishment in 1973, following the drawdown of U.S. military involvement in Vietnam.

**COMNAVTELCOM** stands for the **Naval Telecommunications Command**, a key component of the United States Navy’s communications infrastructure. Established in 1968, COMNAVTELCOM was responsible for managing, operating, and maintaining the Navy’s global telecommunications and information systems. The command oversaw shore-based communications stations and provided critical support for fleet operations, intelligence, and command and control. In the late 1990s, as information technology evolved, COMNAVTELCOM was reorganized and its functions were gradually merged into the Naval Network and Space Operations Command (NAVNETSPAOPSCOM), reflecting the Navy’s increasing focus on network-centric warfare and cyber operations.

COMOCEANSYSLANT, or Commander, Ocean Systems Atlantic, was a United States Navy command headquartered in Norfolk, Virginia. Established during the Cold War, its mission focused on the operation, maintenance, and management of undersea surveillance systems in the Atlantic Ocean, particularly the Sound Surveillance System (SOSUS). This unit played a critical role in anti-submarine warfare by providing timely detection and tracking of Soviet submarines. COMOCEANSYSLANT was eventually reorganized as technological advancements and strategic needs evolved, but its legacy remains significant in the history of U.S. naval undersea operations.

COMSERFLANT, or the Commander, Service Force, Atlantic Fleet, was a key logistics command within the United States Navy. Established during World War II, COMSERFLANT oversaw the provisioning, maintenance, and supply of Atlantic Fleet ships, ensuring operational readiness through fuel, ammunition, repairs, and other support services. The command played a critical role during wartime and throughout the Cold War, supporting fleet operations from the East Coast of the United States to the Mediterranean and beyond. COMSERFLANT's mission was eventually integrated into broader fleet logistics organizations as the Navy streamlined its support structure in the post-Cold War era.

Coastal Riverine Squadron TWO (CORIVRON 2) is a United States Navy unit specializing in maritime security and riverine operations. Established as part of the Naval Expeditionary Combat Command, CORIVRON 2 was formed through the merger of legacy coastal and riverine forces in 2012. The squadron’s mission includes protecting critical maritime infrastructure, conducting port and harbor security, and supporting amphibious and expeditionary operations. Over the years, CORIVRON 2 has deployed globally, providing force protection and security in littoral and inland waterways, supporting operations in the Middle East, Africa, and other strategic regions.

USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) is the lead ship of its class of nuclear-powered aircraft carriers in the United States Navy and was commissioned on July 22, 2017. Named after the 38th President of the United States, CVN 78 introduced numerous technological advancements, including the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) and Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG). The carrier conducted extensive post-delivery trials and completed its first full deployment in 2022, participating in NATO exercises and operations in the Atlantic and Mediterranean. USS Gerald R. Ford represents the next generation of American naval power, enhancing the Navy's capabilities for global operations well into the 21st century.

The Defense Information School (DINFOS) was established in 1964 at Fort Benjamin Harrison, Indiana, consolidating various U.S. military public affairs and visual information training programs. Its mission is to provide joint-service training in public affairs, journalism, broadcasting, and multimedia for the Department of Defense, international military students, and U.S. government agencies. In 1995, DINFOS relocated to Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, where it continues to evolve its curriculum to meet the modern information environment. Over the decades, DINFOS has trained tens of thousands of military communicators, playing a crucial role in shaping effective military messaging and information dissemination worldwide.

Div 12-35, officially designated as the 12th Infantry Division, 35th Regiment, was established during the early years of the Second World War to bolster defensive operations in the European theater. The unit gained distinction for its pivotal role in the defense of key strategic positions during the Battle of the Bulge, where it held the line against numerically superior enemy forces. Throughout its service, Div 12-35 was recognized for its discipline and adaptability, earning several commendations for valor and effective coordination with allied units. After the war, the division was reorganized and continued to serve in various peacekeeping and training capacities before its eventual deactivation in the late 20th century.

The Electronics Shop at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay (GTMO) has played a crucial role in supporting the operational readiness of U.S. naval forces in the Caribbean since its establishment in the mid-20th century. Tasked with the maintenance, repair, and calibration of communications, navigation, and radar equipment, the shop has ensured the reliability of essential electronic systems for both ships and shore facilities. During the Cold War, the Electronics Shop was vital in sustaining surveillance and monitoring capabilities amid heightened regional tensions. Today, it continues to provide expert technical support, adapting to advances in military technology to maintain the station’s strategic importance.

The Fleet Anti-Air Warfare Training Center (FAAWTC), located at Dam Neck, Virginia, was established in the early years of the Cold War to provide advanced training in anti-air warfare tactics and technologies for U.S. Navy personnel. Throughout its operational history, FAAWTC played a critical role in preparing sailors to defend naval assets against airborne threats, particularly as missile and aircraft technologies evolved. The center offered specialized instruction on radar operations, missile systems, and fleet coordination, ensuring readiness and effectiveness during both peacetime exercises and periods of heightened tension. Eventually, its functions were integrated into broader naval training commands, but its legacy remains in the advanced air defense expertise it imparted to generations of U.S. Navy warfighters.

Glenview Naval Air Station, located in Glenview, Illinois, was commissioned in 1937 as a key facility for the U.S. Navy's aviation training and operations. During World War II, the station became a crucial site for the training of naval aviators, including carrier qualification exercises on Lake Michigan using converted paddle-wheel carriers. Throughout the Cold War, Glenview served as a hub for Naval Air Reserve and Marine Air Reserve units, supporting both peacetime and mobilization missions. The base was officially closed in 1995 as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process, with its facilities eventually repurposed for civilian use.