U.S. Navy

USS Zelima (AF-49) was an Alstedes-class stores ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1954. Built in 1944 as the SS William J. Riddle, she was later acquired and converted by the Navy to provide underway replenishment of food, refrigerated stores, and dry provisions to fleet units. Throughout her service, Zelima played a vital logistical role in the western Pacific, supporting U.S. operations during the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and Cold War deployments. She earned several campaign and service accolades before being decommissioned in 1969 and ultimately scrapped in 1973.

Attack Squadron 152 (VA-152), known as the "Wild Aces," was a United States Navy attack squadron established in August 1948 as VF-713 before being redesignated VA-152 in February 1953. The squadron saw action during the Korean War, providing close air support and strike missions from aircraft carriers. Throughout its service, VA-152 operated various aircraft, including the F4U Corsair, AD Skyraider, and A-4 Skyhawk. It participated in combat operations during the Vietnam War before being disestablished on January 29, 1971.

Attack Squadron 215 (VA-215), known as the "Barn Owls," was a United States Navy attack squadron established on March 22, 1955. The squadron primarily flew the A-1 Skyraider and later transitioned to the A-4 Skyhawk, conducting carrier-based attack missions. VA-215 participated in several key operations, including deployments during the Vietnam War, where it provided close air support, interdiction, and strike missions from aircraft carriers in the Gulf of Tonkin. The squadron was decommissioned on August 31, 1967, after over a decade of distinguished service.

Attack Squadron 45 (VA-45), also known as the "Blackbirds," was a United States Navy attack squadron originally established as Fighter Squadron VF-45 on 15 February 1963. The squadron was primarily tasked with providing adversary training, simulating enemy aircraft tactics to prepare Navy pilots for combat. Throughout its history, VA-45 operated several aircraft types, including the A-4 Skyhawk and the TA-4J, from its home base at Naval Air Station Cecil Field, Florida. The squadron was disestablished on 31 March 1996 as part of post-Cold War force reductions.

Certainly! Here is a brief military history for each unit: **VA-76:** Attack Squadron 76 (VA-76), known as the "Spirits," was established in 1955. The unit participated in several significant Cold War operations, including deployments to the Mediterranean Sea and combat operations during the Vietnam War. VA-76 flew various attack aircraft, notably the A-4 Skyhawk, providing close air support and strike missions. The squadron was disestablished in 1969. **VC-4:** Composite Squadron Four (VC-4), nicknamed the "Nightcappers," was established in 1948 as the Navy's first night fighter squadron. VC-4 operated a variety of aircraft, including the F4U Corsair and F2H Banshee, specializing in night and all-weather fighter operations from aircraft carriers. The squadron played a pivotal role in developing naval night combat tactics during the Korean War era. VC-4 was disestablished in 1956. **VP-66:** Patrol Squadron 66 (VP-66), known as the "Liberty Bells," was a U.S. Navy Reserve patrol squadron established in 1970. Based at NAS Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, the squadron flew the P-3 Orion maritime patrol aircraft, conducting anti-submarine warfare and maritime surveillance missions primarily in the Atlantic and Caribbean. VP-66 supported numerous NATO and fleet exercises during the Cold War and participated in real-world operations, including counter-narcotics missions. The squadron was disestablished in 2006 during a Navy Reserve restructuring.

Attack Squadron 145 (VA-145), known as the "Swordsmen," was a United States Navy attack squadron established in 1949. The squadron operated a series of aircraft, including the A-1 Skyraider and later the A-6 Intruder, conducting attack missions from aircraft carriers. VA-145 saw extensive combat during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, providing close air support, interdiction, and strike missions. The unit was decommissioned in 1993, concluding over four decades of distinguished service.

Strike Fighter Squadron 27 (VFA-27), known as the "Royal Maces," is a United States Navy strike fighter squadron established in 1967. Originally designated Attack Squadron 27 (VA-27), the unit flew the A-7 Corsair II before transitioning to the F/A-18A Hornet in the 1990s and later to the advanced F/A-18E Super Hornet. VFA-27 is based at Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan, and is assigned to Carrier Air Wing 5 (CVW-5) aboard the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76). The squadron has participated in multiple major operations, including deployments supporting Operations Southern Watch, Enduring Freedom, and Freedom’s Sentinel, showcasing its enduring legacy of operational excellence in the Indo-Pacific region.

VAH-123, known as the "Professionals," was a U.S. Navy Heavy Attack Squadron established in June 1957 at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington. Its primary mission was to serve as a Fleet Replacement Squadron, training aircrews and maintenance personnel for the A-3 Skywarrior aircraft. Throughout its service, VAH-123 played a crucial role in preparing crews for heavy attack operations during the Cold War era. The squadron was disestablished on February 1, 1971, with its training responsibilities transferred to other units.

VAQ-142, known as the "Gray Wolves," is a United States Navy electronic attack squadron established in 1988. Initially equipped with the EA-6B Prowler, the squadron provided tactical electronic warfare support, including radar jamming and electronic surveillance. After a brief deactivation in 1991, VAQ-142 was reestablished in 1994 and later transitioned to the advanced EA-18G Growler aircraft. The unit has participated in multiple deployments supporting Operations Southern Watch, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, earning a reputation for excellence in electronic warfare and fleet support.

Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 127 (VAW-127), nicknamed the "Seabats," was a United States Navy airborne early warning squadron established on September 2, 1983. The unit operated the E-2C Hawkeye aircraft, providing airborne surveillance, command and control, and battle management for carrier strike groups. VAW-127 was assigned to Carrier Air Wing 13 and deployed aboard the USS Coral Sea (CV-43), participating in key operations during the latter years of the Cold War. The squadron was deactivated on September 30, 1991, as part of post-Cold War reductions in naval forces.

VF-162, known as the "Hunters," was a United States Navy fighter squadron established in 1960. The squadron operated primarily from aircraft carriers in the Pacific Fleet, flying the F-8 Crusader fighter jet. VF-162 saw extensive combat during the Vietnam War, participating in multiple deployments to Southeast Asia and earning several commendations for its performance. The squadron was disestablished in 1971, having contributed significantly to naval air operations during its decade of service.

Fighter Squadron 43 (VF-43), known as the "Challengers," was a United States Navy adversary squadron established in 1945. Over its history, the squadron underwent several redesignations and operated a variety of aircraft, including the F-4 Phantom II, A-4 Skyhawk, and F-16N Fighting Falcon. VF-43’s primary mission became providing air combat training for fleet units, simulating enemy tactics as part of the Navy’s adversary program. The squadron was based at Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia until its disestablishment in July 1994.

Strike Fighter Squadron 204 (VFA-204), known as the "River Rattlers," is a United States Navy Reserve squadron established in 1970. Originally designated as VA-204 and flying the A-4 Skyhawk, the squadron later transitioned to the A-7 Corsair II and was redesignated as VFA-204 in 1991 upon receiving the F/A-18 Hornet. VFA-204 has participated in numerous training exercises, fleet support missions, and carrier qualifications, serving as an essential adversary and readiness squadron for both active and reserve components. Based at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans, the River Rattlers have earned a reputation for professionalism and excellence in naval aviation.

Strike Fighter Squadron 105 (VFA-105), known as the "Gunslingers," was established on November 1, 1967, originally as Attack Squadron 105 (VA-105). The squadron initially flew the A-7 Corsair II and participated in combat operations during the Vietnam War. Over the years, VFA-105 transitioned to the F/A-18 Hornet and later the F/A-18E Super Hornet, adapting to modern strike fighter roles. The Gunslingers have deployed aboard various aircraft carriers, supporting operations such as Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom.

Strike Fighter Squadron 146 (VFA-146), known as the "Blue Diamonds," was established on February 1, 1956. Originally flying the F9F-8 Cougar, the squadron has since operated various aircraft, including the A-7 Corsair II and the F/A-18 Hornet. VFA-146 has participated in numerous deployments, supporting combat operations in Vietnam, Operation Desert Storm, Operation Southern Watch, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Homeported at Naval Air Station Lemoore, California, the "Blue Diamonds" continue to serve as a key strike fighter unit within the U.S. Navy's carrier air wings.

Fleet Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron 63 (VFP-63), based at NAS Miramar, California, was a United States Navy squadron established in 1949. The unit specialized in photographic reconnaissance missions, initially operating the F9F-6P Cougar and later the RF-8 Crusader aircraft. VFP-63 played a crucial role during the Vietnam War, providing vital aerial intelligence and battle damage assessment for carrier strike groups. The squadron was disestablished in 1982 as newer reconnaissance technologies and platforms became available.

Patrol Squadron 721 (VP-721) was a United States Navy Reserve patrol squadron established during the post-World War II era. It was commissioned on 1 November 1946 as part of the Naval Air Reserve Force, operating primarily from NAS Glenview, Illinois. VP-721 flew maritime patrol missions using aircraft such as the PBY Catalina and later the PV-2 Harpoon, focusing on anti-submarine warfare and coastal reconnaissance training. The squadron was redesignated as VP-ML-71 in 1947 and eventually disestablished as part of postwar reserve reductions.

Patrol Squadron 935 (VP-935) was a U.S. Navy Reserve patrol squadron established during World War II as part of the rapid expansion of maritime patrol forces. Formed in 1944, VP-935 operated maritime patrol aircraft such as the PBM Mariner, conducting anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and convoy escort missions along the U.S. coastline and the Atlantic theater. The squadron was composed mainly of reservist aircrews and played a supporting role in safeguarding Allied shipping against German U-boat threats. VP-935 was disestablished shortly after the end of the war, as part of the postwar drawdown of naval aviation units.

Patrol Squadron 48 (VP-48) was a United States Navy maritime patrol squadron established in 1944. Originally formed as VPB-115 during World War II, the unit flew anti-submarine and maritime reconnaissance missions in the Pacific theater, primarily operating the PB4Y-2 Privateer. Throughout the Cold War, VP-48 was based at various locations, including NAS Moffett Field, and transitioned to flying P-3 Orion aircraft, conducting surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, and reconnaissance missions worldwide. The squadron was decommissioned in 1991 as part of post-Cold War force reductions, concluding nearly five decades of distinguished service.

Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 2 (VR-2) is a United States Navy Reserve squadron based at Naval Air Station North Island, California. Established in 1966, VR-2 provides critical worldwide air logistics support, transporting personnel, cargo, and mail for the Navy and other Department of Defense agencies. The squadron has operated various aircraft over its history, including the C-9B Skytrain II and, more recently, the C-40A Clipper. VR-2's missions have supported operations in peacetime and during major conflicts, ensuring rapid and reliable logistical connections for U.S. forces globally.

Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 48 (VR-48), also known as the "Capital Express," is a United States Navy Reserve squadron based at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. Established in 1978, VR-48 provides worldwide air logistics support using a fleet of C-40A Clipper aircraft. The squadron’s mission includes transporting personnel, cargo, and mail for Navy operations, supporting both routine and contingency missions. VR-48 has played a vital role in supporting operations in the Middle East and around the globe, contributing to the Navy’s rapid mobility and logistical reach.

VS-914 was a U.S. Navy anti-submarine squadron established during the Korean War era as part of the Naval Air Reserve. The unit was originally formed in the early 1950s and was composed primarily of reserve personnel, flying the Grumman S2F Tracker for maritime patrol and submarine hunting missions. In 1951, VS-914 was activated for federal service in response to increasing global tensions, operating from NAS Floyd Bennett Field in New York. The squadron contributed to coastal defense and anti-submarine warfare training before being deactivated and returned to reserve status in the mid-1950s.

VT-6, also known as Training Squadron SIX, is a United States Navy training squadron established in 1956 at Naval Air Station Whiting Field, Florida. Originally formed as part of the Navy's effort to streamline and enhance pilot training, VT-6 has played a crucial role in primary flight training for Navy, Marine Corps, and allied student aviators. Throughout its history, the squadron has operated a variety of trainer aircraft, including the T-28 Trojan, T-34 Mentor, and currently, the T-6B Texan II. VT-6 continues its mission of producing highly skilled naval aviators, upholding a legacy of excellence and commitment to naval aviation training.

VU-10, originally designated Utility Squadron TEN (VU-10), was a U.S. Navy utility squadron established during World War II. It was based primarily at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and played a crucial role in providing target-towing, drone operations, and support services for fleet training exercises throughout the Caribbean. The squadron operated a variety of aircraft, including the JD-1 Invader and the F6F Hellcat, to simulate enemy threats and assist in anti-aircraft gunnery practice. VU-10 was later redesignated as VC-10 before its eventual disestablishment in the late 1960s, having contributed significantly to naval aviation training and readiness.