Jerry Bartz

USS Bowen (DE/FF-1079) was a Knox-class frigate commissioned by the United States Navy in 1971. Named after Vice Admiral Harold G. Bowen Sr., the ship served primarily in the Atlantic Fleet, performing anti-submarine warfare, escort, and patrol duties during the Cold War era. In 1975, Bowen was reclassified from a destroyer escort (DE) to a frigate (FF), reflecting her evolving mission profile. After over two decades of service, USS Bowen was decommissioned in 1994 and later transferred to the Turkish Navy, where she continued to serve as Akdeniz (F-257).

USS Neosho (AO-143) was a Neosho-class fleet oiler commissioned by the United States Navy in 1954. Designed to support underway replenishment operations, Neosho played a crucial role in refueling ships at sea, enhancing the Navy's global reach during the Cold War. The vessel participated in numerous exercises and deployments, including Mediterranean and Atlantic operations, supporting both peacetime and crisis response missions. After decades of distinguished service, USS Neosho was decommissioned in 1992 and later struck from the Naval Vessel Register.