USN
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AFRTS
U.S. Navy
ARL 24 USS Sphinx
U.S. Navy
**USS Sphinx (ARL-24)** was an Achelous-class landing craft repair ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1945. Originally laid down as LST-963, she was converted during construction to serve as a repair vessel for landing craft, providing critical support during the closing months of World War II. After the war, USS Sphinx participated in various post-war operations and later saw service during the Vietnam War, where she provided repair and logistical support for riverine and coastal forces. Decommissioned in 1971, Sphinx was eventually struck from the Naval Vessel Register in 1975, concluding her distinguished service.
ATC
U.S. Navy
CBU-402
U.S. Navy
CBU-402, or Construction Battalion Unit 402, is a United States Navy Seabee unit established during the Vietnam War era. Its primary mission was to provide construction and engineering support for forward-deployed naval and Marine forces in Southeast Asia. The unit was responsible for building airfields, roads, and defensive structures, often operating in hazardous and contested environments. CBU-402's efforts significantly enhanced the operational capabilities of U.S. forces, earning commendations for their technical skill and resilience under fire.
Com Div 12
U.S. Navy
ComDesDiv 12, formally known as Destroyer Division 12, was a unit of the United States Navy that saw distinguished service during the early years of World War II. Commissioned before the war, the division was initially part of the Asiatic Fleet, operating in the Western Pacific and Southeast Asia. During the opening months of the Pacific War, ships of ComDesDiv 12 participated in the defense of the Philippines and the Dutch East Indies, engaging in several notable actions against superior Japanese naval forces. Despite suffering losses, the division’s actions delayed enemy advances and contributed to the broader Allied war effort in the region.
Commander Undersea Surveillance
U.S. Navy
Commander Undersea Surveillance (CUS), originally established as Commander, Oceanographic System Atlantic (COSL) in 1954, was a key U.S. Navy command responsible for managing the Sound Surveillance System (SOSUS). Its mission focused on the operation, maintenance, and coordination of undersea listening arrays used to detect and track foreign submarines, particularly during the Cold War. Renamed Commander Undersea Surveillance in 1985, the unit’s oversight expanded to include all U.S. Navy fixed undersea surveillance systems worldwide. CUS played a crucial role in anti-submarine warfare until its functions were merged into other naval commands during the post-Cold War restructuring of the 1990s.
COMUSNAVPHIL
U.S. Navy
CVN-75
U.S. Navy
DD 944 US Forrest Sherman
U.S. Navy
USS Forrest Sherman (DD-931) was the lead ship of her class of destroyers in the United States Navy, commissioned on November 9, 1955. Named after Admiral Forrest Percival Sherman, she served prominently during the Cold War, participating in various NATO exercises, Mediterranean deployments, and crisis responses, including the Cuban Missile Crisis. Throughout her career, USS Forrest Sherman was involved in anti-submarine warfare, escort duties, and goodwill visits to numerous foreign ports. After nearly three decades of service, she was decommissioned on November 5, 1982, and later used as a test ship before being scrapped.
ESSEX
U.S. Navy
FASOTRAGRUPAC
U.S. Navy
Fleet Aviation Specialized Operational Training Group Atlantic (FASOTRAGRUPAC) was a key United States Navy training command responsible for providing advanced aviation training to fleet personnel. Established during the Cold War era, its mission focused on specialized operational instruction for aircrew and maintenance personnel, enhancing readiness for Atlantic Fleet aviation units. FASOTRAGRUPAC offered courses in areas such as electronic warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and weapons systems operations. Over time, its training functions were consolidated into other commands as part of broader Navy restructuring efforts, with its legacy continuing through successor training organizations.
FLEET
U.S. Navy
FLEET HOSPITAL
U.S. Navy
FMSS CAMP PENDELTON
U.S. Navy
FN USN
U.S. Navy
The designation "FN USN" typically refers to "Fireman, United States Navy," which is an enlisted engineering rate within the U.S. Navy rather than a specific unit. The Fireman rating has its origins in the early days of steam-powered naval vessels, where Firemen were responsible for maintaining boilers and propulsion systems. Over time, the role evolved to include a broad range of engineering and mechanical tasks aboard ships and submarines, supporting essential operations. Today, U.S. Navy Firemen receive training in various engineering disciplines and often progress into specialized ratings such as Machinist’s Mate or Electrician’s Mate, playing a crucial part in maintaining fleet readiness and operational capability.
HC4
U.S. Navy
HS7
U.S. Navy
HSL-40
U.S. Navy
Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light 40 (HSL-40), known as the "Airwolves," was established in October 1985 at Naval Air Station Mayport, Florida. The squadron’s primary mission was to provide training for pilots and aircrew in the operation of the SH-60B Seahawk helicopter, focusing on anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare tactics. HSL-40 played a crucial role in preparing crews for deployment with Atlantic Fleet surface combatants, ensuring operational readiness and proficiency. In 2012, following the U.S. Navy’s reorganization of helicopter squadrons, HSL-40 was redesignated as Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 40 (HSM-40).
HSL-48
U.S. Navy
Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light 48 (HSL-48), known as the "Vipers," was established on September 7, 1984, at Naval Air Station Mayport, Florida. The squadron was part of the U.S. Navy’s Atlantic Fleet and operated the SH-60B Seahawk helicopter, specializing in anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, and search and rescue missions. HSL-48 detachments deployed aboard guided missile frigates, destroyers, and cruisers, providing vital aerial support and extending the fleet’s operational reach. In 2015, as part of the Navy’s transition to the MH-60R Seahawk, HSL-48 was redesignated as Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 48 (HSM-48), continuing its legacy of excellence in maritime helicopter operations.
INACTIVE RESERVE
U.S. Navy
IUWG2
U.S. Navy
Kamiseya Japan
U.S. Navy
Kamiseya, Japan, was the site of a significant U.S. Navy communications facility established during the post-World War II era. Originally commissioned in 1945, Naval Security Group Activity (NSGA) Kamiseya played a crucial role in signals intelligence collection and cryptologic operations throughout the Cold War. The base was instrumental during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, providing vital intelligence support to U.S. and allied forces in the Pacific region. After decades of service, the facility was closed in the late 1990s, with its missions transferred to other locations.
MCB-74
U.S. Navy
MEDIC
U.S. Navy