U.S. Navy

**Commander Carrier Division Nine (ComCarDiv 9)** was a United States Navy carrier formation established during World War II. Activated in April 1944, ComCarDiv 9 initially operated with fast carrier task forces in the Pacific, playing a crucial role in major campaigns such as the Battle of Leyte Gulf and the Philippines campaign. The division typically oversaw several Essex-class aircraft carriers, coordinating air strikes, fleet air defense, and support for amphibious landings. Postwar, ComCarDiv 9 continued to serve during the early Cold War, adapting to new technologies before its eventual disestablishment as the Navy reorganized its carrier commands.

Commander, Navy Reserve Forces Command (COMNAVRESFORCOM), headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, serves as the operational and administrative command for the United States Navy Reserve. Established in its current form in 1993, the command oversees the training, mobilization, and integration of Navy Reserve forces to support the Navy’s global missions. COMNAVRESFORCOM ensures that Reserve personnel and units are ready to deploy alongside active duty forces, providing critical capabilities in times of conflict, crisis, or national emergency. Over the years, the command has played a key role in supporting operations such as Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and various humanitarian missions worldwide.

COMNAVSURFPAC-Graphic Shop, officially known as the Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet Graphic Shop, was established to provide specialized visual communication support to the Pacific surface fleet command. Its team of graphic artists and technicians has played a key role in producing operational briefing materials, training aids, and morale-boosting visual content since its inception in the late 20th century. The Graphic Shop has supported numerous fleet exercises, deployments, and high-profile events, ensuring that commanders and crews have clear, effective visual tools for mission planning and execution. Over the years, the unit has evolved with advances in digital technology, maintaining its reputation as a vital asset to COMNAVSURFPAC’s operational readiness and communication efforts.

Commander, Submarine Group 9 (COMSUBGRU 9) is a United States Navy command responsible for the administration, training, and operational readiness of ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) and supporting units based in the Pacific Northwest. Established in 1981 and headquartered at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor in Washington State, COMSUBGRU 9 provides oversight for the Navy's Ohio-class submarines assigned to the Pacific Fleet. The group plays a critical role in the nation’s strategic deterrence by ensuring the preparedness of submarines carrying the Trident ballistic missile system. Over the years, COMSUBGRU 9 has maintained a legacy of excellence in supporting the mission of nuclear deterrence and undersea warfare dominance.

Certainly! Here are short military histories for each unit: **USS Bangust (DE-708):** USS Bangust was a Buckley-class destroyer escort commissioned by the United States Navy in 1944. Serving in the Pacific Theater during World War II, Bangust was credited with anti-submarine and convoy escort duties, notably sinking the Japanese submarine I-29 in July 1944. The ship participated in numerous operations, protecting vital supply lines and supporting amphibious landings through the end of the war. Bangust was decommissioned in 1946 and later transferred to the Philippine Navy. **PCF 46 ("Swift Boat 46"):** PCF 46 was a Patrol Craft Fast (PCF), commonly known as a "Swift Boat," deployed by the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. These boats were primarily used for coastal patrol, interdiction, and insertion/extraction of special operations forces along the rivers and coasts of South Vietnam. PCF 46 participated in numerous patrols and combat engagements, supporting counterinsurgency and riverine operations. The Swift Boats, including PCF 46, were instrumental in the Navy's "brown water" operations throughout the conflict.

e Jubayl Naval Air Facility, located near the city of Jubail on Saudi Arabia’s eastern coast, is a key installation supporting Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF) maritime operations in the Persian Gulf. Constructed in the 1980s as part of Saudi Arabia’s modernization efforts, the facility was designed to provide logistical, maintenance, and operational support for naval aviation assets, including helicopters and patrol aircraft. During Operation Desert Storm in 1991, e Jubayl played a significant role as a staging and support base for coalition naval activities. Today, the facility continues to support joint and multinational exercises, contributing to regional maritime security and defense cooperation.

Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit ONE (EODMU-1) is a United States Navy unit specializing in the detection, identification, rendering safe, and disposal of explosive threats, both on land and at sea. The unit has a proud legacy dating back to World War II, continually adapting to new threats, including improvised explosive devices and underwater mines. EODMU-1 frequently deploys with naval vessels such as USS Gridley (DDG-101), an Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer commissioned in 2007, to provide critical ordnance disposal support during operations and exercises worldwide. Their collaboration ensures the safety of the fleet and enhances the U.S. Navy's capability to project power and maintain freedom of navigation.

**Fleet Aviation Accounting Office, Atlantic (FAAOLANT)** was a specialized unit within the United States Navy, established to manage and oversee financial and logistical accounting for naval aviation assets assigned to the Atlantic Fleet. Founded in the mid-20th century during a period of rapid expansion in naval aviation, FAAOLANT was responsible for ensuring the effective allocation and tracking of funds, supplies, and maintenance resources vital to carrier and shore-based aviation operations. The office played a crucial role in supporting the readiness and operational capabilities of Atlantic Fleet air units through meticulous financial stewardship and coordination with other supply and logistics commands. In response to evolving military structure and advancements in technology, FAAOLANT was eventually reorganized and its functions integrated into larger, consolidated Navy financial management systems.

**GMU-10 Military History:** The Ground Mobility Unit 10 (GMU-10) was established in 2006 as part of the Army’s initiative to enhance rapid-response capabilities in expeditionary environments. Initially equipped with light tactical vehicles, GMU-10 specialized in reconnaissance, convoy security, and quick reaction force operations. The unit saw its first deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, where it earned commendations for its adaptability and effectiveness in austere terrain. Over the years, GMU-10 integrated advanced surveillance systems and has continued to serve as a vital asset in both domestic and overseas missions.

Helicopter Combat Support Squadron TWO (HCU-2), later redesignated as Helicopter Combat Support Squadron TWO (HC-2), was a United States Navy helicopter unit established in April 1948. The squadron was originally based at Naval Air Station Lakehurst, New Jersey, before moving to NAS Norfolk, Virginia. HCU-2’s primary mission was to provide search and rescue (SAR), vertical replenishment (VERTREP), and logistics support for the Atlantic Fleet. Over its decades of service, the unit operated various helicopters, including the Sikorsky H-19, SH-3 Sea King, and CH-46 Sea Knight, before being disestablished in 1997.

Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron 19 (HM-19), known as the "Golden Bears," was established in 1977 at Naval Air Station Alameda, California. The squadron specializes in airborne mine countermeasures (AMCM) and operates MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopters, providing critical support in mine detection and clearance for the U.S. Navy. Over the years, HM-19 has participated in major operations worldwide, including Operation Desert Storm and various international exercises, contributing to safe naval passage and maritime security. In 1994, the squadron was relocated to Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, where it continues to serve as a key asset in mine warfare.

Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light 47 (HSL-47), known as the "Saberhawks," was established on September 15, 1984, at Naval Air Station North Island, California. The squadron operated the SH-60B Seahawk helicopter, specializing in anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, and search and rescue missions, primarily supporting U.S. Navy surface combatants in the Pacific Fleet. HSL-47 deployed aboard various cruisers and destroyers, playing a critical role in maritime security and fleet defense during its service. In 2015, as part of the Navy's helicopter community transition, HSL-47 was redesignated as Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 47 (HSM-47), continuing its legacy with the MH-60R Seahawk.

Naval Base Kitsap – Keyport, historically known as the Keyport Naval Shipyard, was established in 1914 as the Pacific Coast Torpedo Station near Keyport, Washington. Initially tasked with the development, testing, and maintenance of torpedoes, the facility played a crucial role during both World Wars, supporting the U.S. Navy’s undersea warfare capabilities. Over the decades, its mission expanded to include research and support for cutting-edge undersea weaponry, unmanned systems, and fleet readiness. Today, Keyport is an integral part of Naval Base Kitsap, providing technical support, maintenance, and logistics for the Navy’s undersea and surface warfare systems.

**Military Unit LST 983 History:** LST-983 was a tank landing ship (LST) of the LST-542 class built for the United States Navy during World War II. Commissioned in 1944, she played a critical role in the European Theater, participating in the Normandy landings (D-Day) in June 1944 by delivering troops, vehicles, and equipment directly onto the beaches. After the war, LST-983 continued to serve in occupation duties in Europe before being decommissioned in 1946. The vessel was eventually struck from the Naval Vessel Register and sold for civilian use, marking the end of her distinguished service.

**Mardet USS Enterprise (CVAN-65)** refers to the Marine Detachment assigned to the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise, the world’s first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier commissioned in 1961. Marine Detachments, or "Mardets," provided shipboard security, ceremonial functions, and manned the ship's secondary batteries during combat. Throughout the Vietnam War and the Cold War, the Mardet aboard Enterprise played crucial roles in internal security and participated in numerous deployments and operations. The detachment remained an integral part of the ship's company until the Navy phased out Marine Detachments from aircraft carriers in the late 1990s.

The Marine Detachment aboard USS Long Beach (CGN-9) served as an integral part of the ship’s company from her commissioning in 1961 until the Navy-wide phase-out of shipboard Marine detachments in the late 20th century. Responsible for internal security, ceremonial duties, and manning the ship’s secondary battery during General Quarters, the Marines also provided a landing force capability when needed. Throughout the Cold War, the detachment supported the cruiser’s various deployments, including Vietnam War operations and numerous show-of-force missions. The Marine Detachment was officially disbanded in the 1990s as part of a broader reorganization of Navy-Marine Corps manpower on surface ships.

The Marine Detachment aboard USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) was activated when the Essex-class aircraft carrier was commissioned in May 1946. As with other carrier-based Marine Detachments of the era, its primary roles included ship security, ceremonial duties, and the operation of the ship’s brig. During the Korean War, the Marine Detachment supported air operations and contributed to shipboard defense while the Philippine Sea launched air strikes in support of United Nations forces. The unit remained active throughout the ship’s deployments until the carrier’s decommissioning in 1958, exemplifying Marine Corps discipline and tradition afloat.

USS Hancock (CV/CVA-19) was an Essex-class aircraft carrier commissioned by the U.S. Navy in April 1944. During World War II, she participated in major Pacific operations, including strikes on the Philippines, Okinawa, and the Japanese home islands, earning four battle stars. After modernization, Hancock served during the Korean War era and played a prominent role in the Vietnam War, launching air strikes and supporting ground forces. The carrier was decommissioned in 1976 after over three decades of distinguished service.

MCM Crew Reaper is a U.S. Navy mine countermeasures (MCM) crew, established as part of the Navy’s rotational crewing strategy for Avenger-class mine countermeasures ships. Formed in the early 2010s, Crew Reaper has been deployed aboard various MCM vessels, primarily serving in the Fifth Fleet area of operations to safeguard critical maritime chokepoints like the Persian Gulf. The crew specializes in detecting and neutralizing naval mines using advanced sonar systems and remotely operated vehicles, ensuring safe passage for both military and commercial shipping. Their adaptability and technical expertise have made them a vital asset in maintaining maritime security and supporting coalition operations worldwide.

Mine Division 112 (MineDiv 112) was a United States Navy unit assigned to mine warfare operations during the Vietnam War. Activated in the mid-1960s, MineDiv 112 was composed of ocean-going minesweepers (MSOs) tasked with ensuring safe passage for U.S. and allied vessels by detecting and clearing naval mines along the coast of South Vietnam. The division participated in Operation Market Time, patrolling coastal waters to interdict enemy supply lines and prevent the mining of vital sea lanes. MineDiv 112’s efforts were crucial in maintaining maritime security and supporting amphibious and logistics operations throughout the conflict.

The North Atlantic Fleet Camera Party was a specialized photographic unit within the United States Navy, active primarily during World War II. Established to document naval operations in the North Atlantic, the unit was responsible for capturing still and motion pictures of ship movements, convoy operations, and antisubmarine warfare. Their work provided valuable intelligence, aided in after-action analysis, and served as material for training and public relations. The images and footage produced by the North Atlantic Fleet Camera Party remain important historical records of naval activities during the critical Battle of the Atlantic.

NAIRU 911, located at Naval Air Station South Weymouth, Massachusetts, was a Naval Air Reserve Intelligence Unit established to support the operational intelligence needs of fleet and reserve forces. Formed during the Cold War, NAIRU 911 played a key role in providing trained intelligence specialists and analytical support for both peacetime and contingency operations. The unit contributed to exercises, mobilizations, and the training of intelligence personnel, often collaborating with active-duty counterparts to enhance readiness. NAIRU 911 remained an integral component of the Navy Reserve's intelligence community until the base's closure in 1997, after which its missions and personnel were reallocated.

Naval Auxiliary Landing Field (NALF) Crows Landing, located in California’s Central Valley, was established in 1942 as an auxiliary airfield to support the training needs of Naval Air Station Alameda during World War II. The airfield served primarily as a training base for carrier-based aircraft, with pilots practicing takeoffs and landings on its long runways. After the war, the facility continued in use for training and touch-and-go operations until the 1990s, when military activity ceased and the property was transferred to local authorities. Today, remnants of its military past remain, but the field stands as a testament to its critical role in preparing naval aviators for combat during and after World War II.

Naval Communications Station Kodiak, Alaska (NAMCOMSTA Kodiak, AK) was established during World War II as a vital communications hub supporting U.S. Navy operations in the North Pacific. Located on Kodiak Island, the station played a pivotal role in relaying messages between Pacific Fleet units and headquarters, especially during the Aleutian Islands Campaign. After the war, NAMCOMSTA Kodiak continued to serve as a key site for naval communications and electronic intelligence throughout the Cold War, adapting to advances in technology and shifting strategic priorities. The station’s presence contributed significantly to U.S. military readiness in the Arctic and North Pacific until its eventual deactivation and transition to other uses.