Michael Finnegan

Naval Air Station Atlanta (NAS Atlanta) was established in 1959 in Marietta, Georgia, adjacent to Dobbins Air Reserve Base. Originally created to support the training and operations of Naval Reserve aviation units, the base hosted various squadrons, including fighter, patrol, and helicopter units throughout the Cold War and post-Cold War periods. NAS Atlanta played a crucial role in providing readiness training and logistical support to naval aviators and reservists, ensuring operational capability for both peacetime and contingency missions. The station was officially closed in 2009 as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process, with its functions transferred to other installations.

VC-13, also known as Composite Squadron 13, was a United States Navy aircraft squadron established during World War II. Formed in 1943, the squadron was primarily tasked with providing air support for fleet operations, including anti-submarine warfare, target towing, and training missions. VC-13 operated a variety of aircraft, such as the FM-2 Wildcat and TBM Avenger, and was assigned to several escort carriers in the Atlantic and Pacific theaters. The squadron was deactivated following the end of World War II as part of the post-war drawdown of U.S. naval forces.