Charles Dawes

Headquarters & Headquarters Squadron (HQ&HQ SQDN), based at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, is a vital support unit for the United States Marine Corps. Established during World War II, the squadron has served as the backbone of the air station, providing administrative, logistical, and operational support to all tenant and visiting commands. Throughout its history, HQ&HQ SQDN has played a key role in supporting Marine aviation operations, both in times of peace and during major conflicts. The squadron continues to enable the readiness and effectiveness of MCAS Cherry Point, contributing to the overall mission success of the Marine Corps.

The Joint Intelligence Center (JIC) is a critical military unit responsible for the centralized collection, analysis, and dissemination of intelligence in support of joint operations. Established during the late 20th century, JICs became essential components of unified commands, particularly during Operation Desert Storm, where rapid and accurate intelligence sharing proved vital. Over the years, JICs have evolved to integrate advanced technologies, enabling real-time situational awareness across multiple domains. Today, they play a pivotal role in modern conflicts by providing actionable intelligence that enhances decision-making and operational effectiveness for commanders at all levels.

The Bureau of Naval Personnel (BUPERS) was established in 1942, evolving from earlier Navy administrative offices responsible for personnel matters. Its creation centralized the management of Navy manpower, including recruitment, assignments, promotions, and training, during World War II—a period of massive naval expansion. BUPERS has since played a critical role in shaping the careers of sailors and officers, adapting its policies through major conflicts such as the Korean War, Vietnam War, and into the modern era. Today, BUPERS continues to ensure the effective management and professional development of U.S. Navy personnel worldwide.

USS Merrimack (AO-179) was a Cimarron-class fleet oiler of the United States Navy, commissioned on November 7, 1981. Serving primarily in the Atlantic Fleet, she provided vital underway replenishment of fuel and supplies to warships at sea, ensuring sustained naval operations. Merrimack participated in numerous exercises and deployments, including support during operations in the Mediterranean and Persian Gulf. After over two decades of service, she was decommissioned on December 18, 1998, and later struck from the Naval Vessel Register.

The United States Naval Academy (USNA), established in 1845 in Annapolis, Maryland, serves as the undergraduate college for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. Founded during a period of naval reform, the Academy was created to provide rigorous academic and military training to future naval officers. Throughout its history, USNA graduates have played vital roles in every major American conflict, from the Civil War to modern-day operations. Renowned for its traditions, honor code, and leadership development, the Naval Academy remains a cornerstone in shaping the Navy and Marine Corps’ leadership.

1ST MARINE AIR WING

U.S. Marine Corps

The 1st Marine Air Wing is a unit of the United States Marine Corps responsible for conducting aviation operations in support of Marine Corps ground forces. It is the largest and oldest aircraft wing in the Marine Corps, with a history dating back to World War II. The 1st Marine Air Wing is based at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma in Okinawa, Japan. Its mission includes providing close air support, transportation of troops and supplies, and aerial reconnaissance.

The USS Yorktown is the name borne by several distinguished ships in the United States Navy, most notably the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown (CV-5) and its successor, USS Yorktown (CV-10). The first, CV-5, was commissioned in 1937 and played a pivotal role in the early Pacific battles of World War II before being sunk at the Battle of Midway in June 1942. Her successor, CV-10, was commissioned in 1943 and participated in numerous major operations in the Pacific Theater, including the Battle of the Philippine Sea and Okinawa. After World War II, CV-10 served in the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and as a recovery ship for the Apollo 8 mission before being decommissioned and preserved as a museum ship in Charleston, South Carolina.

USS Albany (CG 10) was a guided missile cruiser in the United States Navy, originally commissioned as a heavy cruiser (CA 123) in 1946. She was converted to a guided missile cruiser between 1958 and 1962, becoming the lead ship of the Albany-class. Throughout her service, USS Albany participated in numerous NATO exercises, Mediterranean deployments, and served as flagship for the Sixth Fleet. The ship was decommissioned in 1980, marking over three decades of distinguished service during the Cold War era.

Headquarters Marine Corps (HQMC) is the principal command element of the United States Marine Corps, responsible for overseeing policy, planning, and resource management for the entire service. Established in 1798 with the formal creation of the Marine Corps, HQMC has evolved to coordinate both the administrative and operational functions of the Corps from its offices at the Pentagon and Marine Barracks Washington. Throughout its history, HQMC has guided the Corps through major conflicts, including the World Wars, Korea, Vietnam, and operations in the Middle East, ensuring readiness and modernization. Today, HQMC continues to provide strategic leadership, supporting Marines worldwide and adapting to emerging threats and missions.

USS AMERICA

U.S. Navy

The USS America is a modern amphibious assault ship in the United States Navy. It is the fourth ship to be named after the country and is the lead ship of its class. The ship is capable of carrying a mix of air, ground, and amphibious assault vehicles to support a wide range of military operations. With advanced technology and a skilled crew, the USS America plays a vital role in projecting American power and protecting national interests around the world.