U.S. Navy

**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.

**Combat Service Group Three (COMSERVGRU-3)** was a United States Navy logistics and support command, established to provide essential supply, repair, and administrative support to fleet units operating in the Pacific Ocean. Formed during the post-World War II era, COMSERVGRU-3 played a significant role during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, ensuring that combat ships received fuel, ammunition, and provisions while at sea. The unit was headquartered at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and managed a variety of auxiliary vessels, including oilers, tenders, and supply ships. Over the decades, COMSERVGRU-3 contributed to the Navy’s sustained operational readiness before being reorganized as part of modern fleet support structures.

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.

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.

Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light 46 (HSL-46), known as the "Grandmasters," was established on April 7, 1988, at Naval Air Station Mayport, Florida. The squadron’s primary mission was to provide anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASUW), and search and rescue (SAR) capabilities using the SH-60B Seahawk helicopter. HSL-46 deployed detachments aboard various U.S. Navy surface combatants, supporting fleet operations and exercises worldwide, particularly in the Atlantic and Mediterranean regions. In 2012, as part of the Navy's helicopter reorganization, HSL-46 was redesignated as Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 72 (HSM-72), transitioning to the MH-60R Seahawk and continuing its legacy of excellence.

USS L.Y. Spear (AS-36) was a submarine tender of the United States Navy, commissioned in 1970 and named after Leonidas Young Spear, a notable naval officer. Designed to provide maintenance, logistical support, and supplies to nuclear-powered submarines, the ship played a crucial role during the Cold War, primarily serving with the Atlantic Fleet. Homeported in Norfolk, Virginia, L.Y. Spear supported numerous submarine squadrons and participated in various fleet exercises, enhancing the operational readiness of U.S. submarine forces. The vessel was decommissioned in 1996 after over two decades of distinguished service.

The Mare Island Naval Hospital, located in Vallejo, California, was established in 1869 to provide medical care for naval personnel stationed at the adjacent Mare Island Naval Shipyard. Throughout its history, the hospital played a crucial role in treating wounded sailors and Marines during major conflicts, including World War I, World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. The facility expanded significantly during World War II to meet the demands of the Pacific Fleet, boasting state-of-the-art equipment for its time. After decades of service, the hospital closed in 1996 following the closure of Mare Island Naval Shipyard, marking the end of its long legacy of military medical care.

The Marine Detachment (MarDet) aboard USS Constellation (CVA-64) served as a vital component of the ship’s company from her commissioning in 1961 until Marine Detachments on aircraft carriers were disbanded in the late 1990s. The unit was responsible for internal security, ceremonial duties, and manning the ship’s brig, as well as providing a landing force capability if needed. MarDet Marines participated in numerous deployments to the Western Pacific and Vietnam, supporting combat operations and enforcing ship security during the Vietnam War and throughout the Cold War. The detachment prided itself on maintaining Marine Corps traditions and professionalism while integrating with the larger Navy crew during USS Constellation’s distinguished service.

The Marine Detachment (MarDet) aboard USS Independence (CV-62) served as the ship’s security force and ceremonial unit throughout the vessel’s active years, from its commissioning in 1959 until Marine detachments were phased out in the mid-1990s. Comprised of Marines trained in shipboard security, force protection, and small arms, the MarDet was responsible for internal security, supervising the ship’s brig, and participating in ceremonial functions such as color guards and honors for visiting dignitaries. During major deployments—including operations in the Mediterranean, the Vietnam War, and Operation Desert Storm—the MarDet provided essential support to the carrier’s mission and maintained readiness for potential threats. The presence of the Marine Detachment on the USS Independence reflected the long-standing tradition of Marine units serving aboard U.S. Navy capital ships.

The Marine Detachment (MarDet) aboard USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67) was established to provide shipboard security, ceremonial functions, and support for the ship's mission as a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier. Activated with the commissioning of the carrier in 1968, the detachment consisted of a small group of U.S. Marines trained in both infantry and naval operations. Throughout its service, the Marine Detachment participated in security details, manned key posts, and contributed to various operations during deployments to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Middle East. The detachment was deactivated in the late 1990s as part of a Navy-wide restructuring that phased out permanently assigned Marine units on aircraft carriers.

The Marine Detachment (MarDet) aboard USS Saratoga (CV-60) was established to provide shipboard security, ceremonial duties, and support for naval operations. Activated with the commissioning of the aircraft carrier in 1956, the MarDet consisted of a select group of United States Marines who served as part of the ship's company during both peacetime and periods of conflict. Throughout its service, including deployments during the Cold War, Vietnam War, and Operation Desert Storm, the MarDet contributed to the carrier's mission readiness and overall security. The Marine Detachment was disbanded in the late 1990s as the Navy phased out ship-based Marine units, marking the end of an era of Marine presence aboard capital ships like the Saratoga.

The MCAS Cherry Point Navy Boat Docks, located at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point in North Carolina, have played a vital role in supporting naval and Marine Corps operations since World War II. Established to provide logistical and transportation support, the docks have enabled the movement of personnel, equipment, and supplies via the adjacent waterways, including the Neuse River and Pamlico Sound. Over the decades, the facility has supported both routine base operations and major training exercises, serving as a critical link between land and sea operations for the air station. Today, the Navy Boat Docks continue to facilitate amphibious training, emergency response, and maritime security efforts in support of MCAS Cherry Point’s mission.

Millington Naval Hospital, located in Millington, Tennessee, was established during World War II to provide medical care and support for personnel at the nearby Naval Air Station. Commissioned in 1942, the hospital played a crucial role in treating wounded servicemembers returning from overseas and training new medical staff for naval operations. Throughout the Cold War and into the late 20th century, Millington Naval Hospital continued to serve as a vital healthcare facility for active duty, retired military, and their families. The hospital was eventually realigned as part of broader military restructuring, with its healthcare functions integrated into the local Navy medical community.

MILPHAP N-5 was a U.S. Navy Medical Civic Action Program (MILPHAP) unit that operated in Vietnam during the Vietnam War. The unit was deployed to support South Vietnamese civilian populations by providing medical care, public health education, and training for local medical personnel. Stationed in the Mekong Delta region, MILPHAP N-5 worked closely with Vietnamese counterparts to improve healthcare infrastructure and foster goodwill among the local population. Their efforts not only addressed immediate medical needs but also aimed to strengthen South Vietnam's capacity for long-term public health and resilience during the conflict.

NAMTD 1012, or Naval Aviation Maintenance Training Detachment 1012, is a United States Navy unit specializing in technical training for aviation maintenance personnel. Established in the late 20th century, NAMTD 1012 has been pivotal in providing advanced instruction on the maintenance and repair of naval aircraft systems, ensuring fleet readiness and operational excellence. Over the years, the unit has adapted its curriculum to support evolving aircraft technologies, including modern rotary and fixed-wing platforms. NAMTD 1012 continues to play a crucial role in sustaining the Navy’s aviation capabilities by producing highly skilled technicians ready for deployment worldwide.

Naval Air Station Los Alamitos, located in Orange County, California, was originally established in 1942 as a training facility for the United States Navy during World War II. Throughout the war, it served as a major training base for Navy and Marine Corps aviators, providing support for Pacific Theater operations. After the war, NAS Los Alamitos continued to play a pivotal role as a reserve air station, supporting both Naval and Army aviation units. Today, it operates as the Joint Forces Training Base Los Alamitos, supporting multi-service reserve and National Guard operations, and remains a vital hub for military training and homeland security missions in Southern California.

Naval Air Station Patuxent River Naval Hospital, located in St. Mary’s County, Maryland, has served as a vital medical facility for the region’s military community since World War II. Established alongside the air station in 1943, the hospital provided medical care for Navy personnel involved in aviation testing, training, and operations. Over the decades, the hospital expanded its services to support not only active duty members but also their families and retirees, adapting to advances in military medicine. Today, it continues its mission as part of the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center system, delivering comprehensive healthcare and readiness support to the NAS Patuxent River community.

The Naval Diving & Salvage Training Center (NDSTC), located in Panama City Beach, Florida, was established in 1982 and is the largest diving facility in the world. It serves as the primary training center for military divers from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces as well as select international partners. NDSTC provides instruction in a wide range of disciplines, including underwater salvage, demolition, and rescue operations, ensuring personnel are prepared for complex missions in challenging environments. Over the decades, the center has played a crucial role in developing advanced diving techniques and supporting both peacetime and combat operations globally.

Naval Radio Station (NRS) Cheltenham was established in 1942 near Cheltenham, Maryland, as a key component of the U.S. Navy’s global communications network during World War II. The station played a vital role in intercepting and decoding enemy transmissions, as well as relaying secure communications between U.S. naval commands. During the Cold War, NRS Cheltenham continued to serve as a critical link in naval communications and cryptologic operations, supporting both Atlantic and worldwide missions. The station was gradually phased out in the 1970s, with its functions transferred to other facilities, but its legacy endures as a significant contributor to U.S. naval intelligence and communications history.