Category: This Week in Naval History

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Closing a Dark Chapter: Reflections on the ‘Fat Leonard’ Scandal and the U.S. Navy’s Call for Integrity

Introduction

Today, with the sentencing of Leonard “Fat Leonard” Francis to 15 years in prison, the U.S. Navy closes a painful chapter in its history—a chapter that has left a lasting black eye on an institution known for its honor and commitment. Francis’s decade-long bribery scheme, which ensnared dozens of high-ranking officers, stained the Navy’s reputation and highlighted vulnerabilities in military contracting that few would have imagined possible. This editorial is a reminder of both the need for accountability and the resilience of the honest, dedicated men and women who serve our Navy with integrity.

A Scandal of Unimaginable Scale
The revelations around the Fat Leonard scandal have been shocking: lavish parties, Kobe beef, fine cigars, and cash exchanged for critical classified information and special favors. This wasn’t just a case of bribery; it was a breach of trust that exposed Navy operations to corruption and mismanagement at an unimaginable scale. The scandal reached as high as the first active-duty admiral to be convicted of a federal crime, creating deep and lasting implications for the Navy’s image.

A Call for Accountability
Francis’s sentencing may seem like justice served, but the journey to accountability is far from over. Though some officers have faced consequences, we know that the ripple effects of this scandal have impacted thousands of sailors who honorably serve every day, distancing themselves from this dark episode and instead focusing on the Navy’s mission. For these sailors and those of us who believe in a stronger, more accountable Navy, Leonard’s sentencing underscores a broader mission: to reinforce integrity, transparency, and accountability within Navy procurement and beyond.

Americans for a Stronger Navy: A Mission of Integrity
At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we’ve communicated over the last few years about the importance of maintaining rigorous standards in Navy operations and procurement practices. Our Navy deserves the resources it needs to safeguard our nation, but it also deserves to operate within systems of integrity and transparency. We call for continued reform and vigilance in military contracting, not merely to avoid another scandal but to ensure that taxpayer dollars go toward strengthening our fleet and supporting those who serve.

Turning a New Page
As this chapter closes, let us reflect on the millions of honorable sailors who uphold our Navy’s values despite scandals like these. The dedicated men and women of the U.S. Navy are not defined by the actions of a few but by their collective commitment to duty, honor, and country. With the Fat Leonard scandal behind us, it’s time to turn a new page—one that reaffirms our Navy’s values and strengthens its foundation for the future.

Conclusion
In closing, we hope that this unfortunate episode serves as a rallying point, a reminder of the Navy’s resilience, and a call for enduring integrity in all facets of military service. As citizens, let us continue to support a Navy that stands by its values and remains steadfast in its mission.

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Charting the Course, Navigating the Future of Naval Power: The Navy’s Role in America’s New Warfighting Doctrine

Bill Cullifer. Founder

Today, we introduce the U.S. Navy’s new warfighting doctrine. According to the U.S.Navy, the doctrine not only reinforces the commitment to securing maritime freedom but also strengthens collaborative ties, ensuring the Navy remains a vanguard of global stability and security.

Introduction

The unveiling of the new joint warfighting doctrine signifies an evolution, not a departure, from the traditional “peace through strength” stance. It reaffirms the U.S. Navy’s pivotal role as the global guardian of the seas, adapting to modern challenges while maintaining its foundational principles.

What’s New

This doctrine introduces a multi-domain approach, integrating land, air, sea, space, and cyber capabilities. It emphasizes agility, technological innovation, and a proactive stance in the dynamic security landscape.

Why Americans Should Care

The doctrine, according to the U.S. Navy ensures the U.S. remains at the forefront of global security, safeguarding national interests, and promoting international peace and stability.

  • Integration Across Domains: It advocates for seamless operations across all military domains, enhancing responsiveness and effectiveness.
  • Innovative Approaches: The focus is on harnessing cutting-edge technologies and concepts to stay ahead of adversaries.
  • Adapting to Modern Threats: It addresses the need to continuously evolve in response to emerging security challenges.

Implications for the Navy

The Navy is set to benefit from enhanced strategic direction, capability development, and operational planning, ensuring it remains a formidable force in protecting global maritime interests.

Implications for Our Global Partners

The doctrine fosters stronger alliances and interoperability among international partners, uniting efforts in maintaining a secure global environment.

Conclusion

The new doctrine is a testament to the enduring value of “peace through strength,” with the Navy continuing to serve as a cornerstone of global security and stability. Supporting a strong, adaptable Navy is more crucial than ever in navigating the complexities of contemporary and future threats.

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Honoring Pearl Harbor Day: A Reflection on Our Past to Chart Our Future

Recognizing the Past and Looking to the Future

Today, on Pearl Harbor Day, we at Americans for a Stronger Navy pause to remember and honor the sacrifices made on December 7, 1941. This day, a pivotal moment in our nation’s history, reminds us of the bravery and resilience of those who faced unimaginable adversity. As we reflect on the events of that day, we reaffirm our commitment to remembering our past and learning from it.

The attack on Pearl Harbor shaped the course of World War II and transformed the future of naval power. It’s a stark reminder of the need for vigilance, preparedness, and the continuous evolution of naval strategy. As we pay tribute to the heroes of that day, their legacy inspires us to ensure such history does not repeat itself.

In this spirit, we are proud to introduce our educational series, ‘Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of American Naval Power.’ Hosted by me, Bill Cullifer, this series connects the enduring lessons of World War II to today’s naval challenges. Starting today, we embark on an eight-week journey exploring how the echoes of history inform our present and future naval strategies.

Through ‘Charting the Course,’ we aim to deepen our understanding of naval history and its impact on contemporary naval power. Join us as we discuss various topics from the evolution of shipbuilding to the role of AI in naval operations, all while keeping the lessons of Pearl Harbor and WWII at the forefront.

For more details on the series and to access our featured resource ‘Echoes of History: Steering the Future,’ visit StrongerNavy.org. Follow us on social media for updates and insights.

Let’s honor the past and responsibly steer our future. Together, we remember, we learn, and we grow stronger.

#PearlHarborDay #NeverForget #StrongerNavy #ChartingTheCourse

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Happy Birthday US Navy

Happy Birthday US Navy from
Americans for a Stronger Navy

Dear Navy Family,

Today marks the 248th birthday of the US Navy, the most formidable and adaptable Naval force on the global stage. This day serves as a testament to the valor, dedication, and resilience of those who wear the Navy uniform, past and present. We equally salute the unyielding support of their families, the backbone behind their service.

Having served as an enlisted man on the Henry B. Wilson (DDG7), I’ve borne witness to numerous moments of camaraderie and growth. Yet, my time working alongside LCDR Nosal remains etched in my memory. His method of mentorship, a blend of wisdom and patience, was transformative. LCDR Nosal had this innate ability to identify potential and nurture it, turning raw talent into formidable skill. LCDR Nosal, wherever you are your commitment to building up those around you didn’t just make us better sailors but better individuals. You truly embodied what it means to lead with heart and purpose in the Navy.

This unwavering commitment, combined with the lessons from leaders like LCDR Nosal and others on board, inspired both the foundation of StrongerNavy.org and my personal desire to mentor and teach.

Our vision is clear: advocate for a robust, future-ready, and stronger Navy that stands guard over our nation’s interests and acts as a beacon of peace globally. Through our platform, we aim to amplify the importance of naval supremacy, champion the Navy’s forward-looking endeavors, and extend a helping hand to our Navy brethren and their kin.

A fortified Navy ensures our nation’s safety, prosperity, and the liberties we hold dear. This vision, however, can only be realized with your support. I invite you to champion our cause, to become an integral part of our fraternity. Your involvement can chart the course for our Navy’s brighter tomorrow.

Bill

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USS Mason: A Ready and Reliable Ship

USS Mason (DDG 87) and USNS Supply (T-AOE 6)

Hello and welcome back to the Americans for a Stronger Navy blog, where we keep you updated on the latest news and stories about the US Navy and its vital role in protecting our nation and advancing our interests around the world. Today, we are happy to share with you some exciting photos and information about the USS Mason (DDG 87),

The USS Mason (DDG 87) is an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer in the United States Navy. She is currently underway in the Atlantic Ocean participating in the Carrier Strike Group Four Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX). COMPTUEX is an intense, multi-week exercise designed to fully integrate a carrier strike group as a cohesive, multi-mission fighting force and to test their ability to carry out sustained combat operations from the sea.

Recently, the USS Mason participated in a replenishment-at-sea with the Military Sealift Command’s fast combat support ship USNS Supply (T-AOE 6). During this operation, the USS Mason received fuel, food, ammunition, and other supplies from the USNS Supply. The replenishment-at-sea also tested the coordination and communication skills of both ships’ crews.

The USS Mason is a ready and reliable ship that can perform a variety of missions, including air defense, anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, and ballistic missile defense. She is equipped with a powerful AEGIS combat system that integrates advanced sensors, weapons, and command and control capabilities. She has a crew of 380 officers and enlisted personnel and can carry two MH-60R Seahawk helicopters.

The USS Mason is named in honor of the non-segregated crew serving on board USS Mason (DE-529), the first ship in the US Navy with this distinction of a predominantly black crew. She is the 37th destroyer of her class and the 21st ship of this class to be built at Bath Iron Works in Bath, Maine. She was commissioned in April 2003 and is currently homeported in Mayport, Florida.

The USS Mason represents the legacy of her namesake and the dedication of her crew. She is ready to defend our nation and our allies with honor, courage, and commitment.

The USS Mason is not only a powerful ship, but also a decorated one. She has earned several awards and honors for her outstanding performance and achievements in various missions and exercises. Some of her notable awards include:
• The Combat Action Ribbon, for engaging and defending against missile attacks from Houthi rebels in Yemen in October 2016.
• The Navy Unit Commendation, for conducting strike operations against Libyan air defense systems and military targets, as well as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions for Libyan civilians, in support of Operation Odyssey Dawn /Operation Unified Protector in 2011.
• The Navy E Ribbon, for achieving excellence in battle efficiency and readiness in 2004, 2005, and 2016.
• The Battenberg Cup, for being the best all-around ship or submarine in the United States Navy’s Atlantic Fleet based on crew achievements in 2016. Mason was only the fifth destroyer in the last 111 years to receive this prestigious award.
• The Bloodhound Award, for meritorious anti-submarine warfare preparation and prowess in 2020. Mason demonstrated exceptional ASW capabilities during multiple exercises and operations, including tracking a Russian submarine that was operating near the US coast.
The USS Mason is a ship that has made history and continues to make a difference. She is a testament to the courage, skill, and dedication of her crew, past and present, who proudly serve on board this remarkable vessel. She is also a tribute to the legacy of her namesake crew, who broke barriers and paved the way for future generations of African American sailors.

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Honoring D-Day Heroes: The 79th Anniversary 

The Celebration at Pointe du Hoc

On June 5, 2023, service members and civilians in France honored D-Day veterans during the 79th anniversary ceremony at Pointe du Hoc. This ceremony underscored the heroic efforts of the 2nd and 5th Ranger Battalions who scaled the cliffs at Normandy, France, in 1944. The Defense Department recognizes these heroes for their selfless service and sacrifice in the pursuit of global peace and security.

Operation Neptune: The U.S. Navy on D-Day

The naval component of Operation Overlord, known as Operation Neptune, began in the early hours of June 6, 1944. This operation marked the start of the Allied invasion of German-occupied France and played a vital role in breaking Hitler’s Festung Europa (Fortress Europe).

The Allied Invasion Fleet

Under the command of Admiral Sir Bertram H. Ramsay, the Allied invasion fleet was divided into Western (American) and Eastern (British) Task Forces. They embarked upon the massive assault, the naval part of which was executed under the command of Rear Admiral Alan G. Kirk, Task Force 122.

The Bombardment and The Challenges

In opening the invasion, a naval bombardment within the American sectors was coordinated with the arrival of Eighth Air Force bombers. Despite the remarkable firepower of the U.S. Navy, German forces did not suffer significant casualties during the bombardment.

The Role of Naval Combat Demolition Units (NCDUs)

The NCDUs, combined with U.S. Army engineers, formed gap assault teams (GATs) tasked with detonating mines and clearing obstacles on the landing beaches. Despite the intense enemy fire and rapidly rising tide, the gap assault teams on Omaha managed to clear five of the 16 assigned gaps.

Heroism at Omaha Beach

The success of the invasion seemed most dubious at Omaha Beach, where the American GIs remained pinned down, unable to advance. The situation began to turn around when a handful of British and American destroyers began pounding the enemy gun positions. The Allied troops were finally able to move forward, engage, and destroy the enemy.

The Significance of D-Day

The successful invasion of northern France on D-Day marked a significant moment in U.S. naval history. Rear Admiral Kirk, reflecting on the day, stated, “Our greatest asset was the resourcefulness of the American sailor.”

—Guy J. Nasuti, NHHC Histories and Archives Division, May 2019

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USS Lenah Higbee Commissioning: Proud Moment for Americans and Navy Community

USS Lenah S. Higbee dressed for the ceremony.
Photograph courtesy of Mr. Michael Duhe.

Introduction:

The commissioning of the USS Lenah Sutcliffe Higbee is a proud moment for Americans and the Navy community. On May 13, 2023, the newest guided missile destroyer will officially become a part of the U.S. Navy in a time-honored tradition at Key West’s Outer Mole Pier. This milestone marks the culmination of years of hard work and dedication by the crew and all those involved in the ship’s design, construction, and testing.

Summary:

The USS Lenah Higbee, the Navy’s newest guided missile destroyer, will be commissioned on May 13, 2023, at Key West’s Outer Mole Pier. The ship has been at sea for over a year, and its crew has tested and mastered all its state-of-the-art systems before entering official service. The commissioning ceremony is a time-honored tradition that officially welcomes the ship into the U.S. Navy. The ship’s namesake, Lenah Higbee, was a Navy nurse pioneer and the first woman to receive the Navy Cross for her exemplary work during World War I.

Key Takeaways:

  • The commissioning of the USS Lenah Higbee is a proud moment for Americans and the Navy community.
  • The ship has been at sea for over a year, and its crew has tested and mastered all its state-of-the-art systems before entering official service.
  • The commissioning ceremony is a time-honored tradition that officially welcomes the ship into the U.S. Navy.
  • The ship’s namesake, Lenah Higbee, was a Navy nurse pioneer and the first woman to receive the Navy Cross for her exemplary work during World War I.

Conclusion:

The commissioning of the USS Lenah Higbee is a momentous occasion and a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Navy community. The ship’s cutting-edge technology and the crew’s expertise will ensure that it plays a vital role in keeping America safe. As Americans, we should take pride in this achievement and support the Navy’s mission to maintain a strong and capable fleet.

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Unveiling the Future: Navy Museum Artistic Ideas Competition and the Importance of Preserving Navy History

Introduction

Greetings to our members and subscribers, as we work together to promote peace through strength. Americans for a Stronger Navy is committed to our mission, and we are excited to share the latest developments in the Navy’s Artistic Ideas competition, which aims to explore the possibilities for the planned Navy museum.

Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro unveiled conceptual renderings from five architecture firms at the National Museum of the U.S. Navy

Summary

The Navy’s Artistic Ideas competition recently unveiled conceptual renderings from five architecture firms at the National Museum of the U.S. Navy. The competition aimed to explore the full realm of artistic ideas that could be incorporated into the new Navy museum.

“We are pleased to display five visions for the future of the National Museum of the U.S. Navy,” said Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro, “while each concept is different, all of them show how we might celebrate our Navy’s accomplishments, honor our veterans and point the way toward the Navy’s future.”
new building and the potential renovation of existing historical buildings. The planned museum campus would consist of approximately 270,000 square feet and include about 100,000 square feet of net gallery space.

Competition Overview: From Initial Interest to Final Selection

In December, 80 firms expressed interest in participating in the ideas competition, and 37 firms submitted qualifications. Finally, the Navy selected five architecture firms as finalists: Bjarke Ingels Group, DLR Group, Frank Gehry Partners, Perkins & Will, and Quinn Evans. These finalists were tasked with developing their unique submissions of conceptual ideas for the museum.

Finalists’ Concepts: A Celebration of Navy’s Accomplishments and Future

Since January, the firms developed their unique submissions of conceptual ideas to include a museum entrance, an atrium, a ceremonial courtyard, and the incorporation of some of the Navy’s larger artifacts, like a Corsair aircraft, a Swift Boat, and the sail of a submarine. According to Secretary Del Toro, “while each concept is different, all of them show how we might celebrate our Navy’s accomplishments, honor our veterans, and point the way toward the Navy’s future.”

Why Preserving Navy History Matters

Preserving Navy history is a vital part of our national heritage, and understanding the Navy’s contributions to our nation is essential to fostering a sense of national pride and identity. The museum will help us appreciate our national heritage, and honoring the brave men and women who have served our country in the Navy is a crucial part of preserving Navy history. Moreover, preserving Navy history provides valuable insights into how the Navy has adapted to changing circumstances over time.

The final canvases from the competition will remain on display for public viewing at the Navy’s National Museum on the Washington Navy Yard. Access hours are limited because of the museum’s consolidation, and NHHC plans additional public showcases this summer. Anyone wishing to share ideas or to comment on these Navy museum concepts can find the Navy on Facebook or email by clicking here.

The firms’ concepts are available here.

Following the SECNAV’s October announcement of the preferred location for the Navy’s planned museum, Naval History and Heritage Command moved forward with its conceptual development phase and initiated the ideas competition in an effort to explore the full realm of artistic ideas that might be incorporated into a new museum.

The competition sought concepts and ideas for the planned project from a broad range of individuals and architecture firms. Following the initial announcement in December, 80 firms expressed interest in participating; 37 firms then submitted qualifications, and finally, the Navy selected five architecture firms as finalists: Bjarke Ingels Group, DLR Group, Frank Gehry Partners, Perkins & Will and Quinn Evans.

Since January, the firms developed their unique submissions of conceptual ideas to include a museum entrance, an atrium, a ceremonial courtyard, and the incorporation of some of the Navy’s larger artifacts, like a Corsair aircraft, a Swift Boat, and the sail of a submarine.

“The concepts unveiled today are a crucial step in exploring what is possible for the new National Museum of the U.S. Navy,” said NHHC Director Samuel J. Cox, U.S. Navy rear admiral (retired). “We’ll tell the story of the Navy’s history as it continues to unfold, and the ideas developed by our finalists herald a new way of honoring that history by inviting visitors to participate.”

We hope that the Navy’s Artistic Ideas competition has inspired you to support our mission of promoting peace through strength. The Navy museum is an essential part of our history and will help future generations understand the significance of the Navy’s contributions to our nation. As always, we encourage you to be an active supporter by subscribing to our organization, and we thank you for your time and for supporting a Stronger Navy.

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This Week in Navy History – April 10, to April 17, 2023

April 10

1941

USS Niblack (DD 424) picks up three boatloads of survivors from Dutch freighter Saleier, which was sunk the previous day by a German U-boat. The destroyer detects a submarine preparing to attack and drives it off with a depth charge attack. It is the first action between American and German forces in World War II.

1942

USS Thresher (SS 200) torpedoes and sinks Japanese merchant cargo ship Maru six miles north of Oshima, near the entrance to Tokyo Bay, Honshu, Japan.

1944

TBM bombers and FM-2s aircraft (VC 58) from USS Guadalcanal (CVE 60) sink German submarine U 68 off Madeira Island.

1963

During diving tests, USS Thresher (SSN 593) is lost with all hands east of Cape Cod, Mass., including commanding officer and 17 civilian technicians.

1966

During the Vietnam War, the river patrol boats (PBRs) of River Patrol Force commence operations on inland waters of South Vietnam.

April 11

1783

Congress declares the cessation of arms against Great Britain, just a few days after British Parliament passed a similar resolution, thus ending hostilities of the American Revolution.

1944

USS Redfin (SS 272) sinks the Japanese destroyer Akigumo in the eastern entrance to Basilan Strait.

1945

The kamikaze attacks during the Okinawa Campaign damage eight Navy ships.

1970

Apollo 13 is launched, commanded by Navy Capt. James A. Lovell. The ship endures an explosion forcing an immediate return to Earth. Recovery is by helicopters from USS Iwo Jima (LPH 2).

1991

The U.N. Security Council declares a formal cease-fire ending the Persian Gulf War.

1992

USS Annapolis (SSN 760) is commissioned at the Electric Boat Division at Groton, Conn. The 10th of her Los Angeles “Improved” class of attack submarines.

April 12

1861

The Civil War begins with Confederates firing on Fort Sumter, S.C. The Union Navy plays an integral part blockading Confederates, keeping them diplomatically and economically contained from other nations.

1911

Lt. Theodore Ellyson completes his aviator training at the Glenn Curtiss Aviation Camp at North Island, San Diego, Calif., and becomes Naval Aviator No. 1.

1944

USS Halibut (SS 232) sinks Japanese army passenger/cargo ship Taichu Maru despite the presence of at least three escort vessels.

1945

President Franklin D. Roosevelt dies at Warm Springs, Ga. Besides being the nation’s longest-serving president, he also was an assistant secretary of the Navy.

1962

U.S. Navy demonstrates new landing craft with retractable hydrofoils, LCVP (H), which are named Highlanders. The Navy eventually rejects the craft because it cant keep a straight path like a standard LCVP.

1981

The first re-useable Space Shuttle, Columbia (STS-1) is launched with an all-US Navy crew: Capt. John W. Young (Ret.) is the shuttles commander and Lt. Cmdr. Robert L. Crippen is the pilot.

1986

USS Samuel B. Roberts (FFG 58) is commissioned at Bath, Maine.

1993

Aircraft from USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) and NATO forces begin enforcing the no-fly zone over the Bosnia in Operation Deny Flight.

2003

USS Mason (DDG 87) is commissioned at Cape Canaveral, Fla. The Arleigh Burke-class destroyer is the 37th in the class and the ninth of the Flight IIA variant.

April 13

1940

USS J. Fred Talbott (DD 156) returns to the Panama Canal Zone after providing medical assistance to a passenger on board Japanese steamship SS Arimasan Maru.

1942

USS Grayling (SS 209) sinks the Japanese freighter Ryujin Maru off southest tip of Shikoku, Japan.

1944

USS Harder (SS 257) sinks the Japanese destroyer Ikazuchi, 180 miles SSW of Guam.

1952

During the Korean War, sorties launch from USS Philippine Sea (CV 47) and Boxer (CV 21) and deliver 200 tons of aircraft ordnance to the North Korean target area.

1960

The Navy’s navigation satellite, Transit 1B, which demonstrates the first engine restart in space, is placed into orbit from Cape Canaveral, Florida, by Thor-Able-Star.

1981

AV-8A Harriers deploy as a Marine Air Group on board an amphibious assault ship for the first time.

1996

USS Carney (DDG 64) is commissioned at Mayport, Fla., her homeport. The destroyer is the 14th of the Arleigh Burke-class and the first to be named after Adm. Robert Carney, the Chief of Naval Operations during the Eisenhower administration.

April 14

1898

The first post-Civil War hospital ship, USS Solace (AH 2) is commissioned and soon participates in the Spanish-American War attending to wounded servicemen from battles in Cuba

1942

USS Roper (DD 147) sinks German submarine U 85 off the Virginia Capes. Before being sunk by Roper, U 85 sank three Allied merchant vessels.

1945

USS Tirante (SS 420), commanded by Lt. Cmdr. George L. Street III, attacks a Japanese convoy in the approaches to the Yellow Sea and sinks a transport ship and two vessels. Street earns Medal of Honor for his actions.

1969

A North Korean aircraft shoots down an unarmed EC-121 propeller-driven Constellation, killing all 31 crewmembers on board.

1988

During Operation Ernest Will, USS Samuel B. Roberts (FFG 58) strikes an Iranian mine off Qatar, injuring 10 sailors. Four days later, the US Navy retaliates with Operation Praying Mantis, which strikes Iranian oil platforms, sinks an Iranian frigate, patrol ship, and damages another frigate.

April 15

1912

The scout cruisers USS Chester and USS Salem sail from Massachusetts to assist RMS Titanic survivors, and escort RMS Carpathia, which carried the survivors of the Titanic, to New York.

1918

The First Marine Aviation Force, under the command of Capt. Alfred A. Cunningham, USMC, is formed at Marine Flying Field, Miami, Fla.

1945

USS Frost (DE 144) and USS Stanton (DE 247) join to attack German submarine U 880 north-northwest of the Azores, which sinks at 01:14.

1961

The first nuclear-powered frigate, USS Bainbridge (DLGN-25), is launched at Quincy, Mass.

1962

USS Princeton (LPH 5) brings the first advisory unit to Vietnam and the Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 362 SocTrang, Mekong Delta, South Vietnam.

1986

Operation El Dorado Canyon. Aircraft of USS America (CV 66) & USS Coral Sea (CV 43) attack Libya.

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This week in Navy History – March 26 – April 1, 2033

March 26, 1942

Task Force 39, commanded by Rear Adm. John W. Wilcox, Jr., sails from Portland, Maine, for Scapa Flow, Orkeny Islands, Scotland, to reinforce the British Home Fleet due the British Fleets involvement in Operation Ironclad, the British invasion of the Vichy French controlled Madagascar. The following day, Rear Adm. Wilcox, while taking an unaccompanied walk on his flagship, USS Washington (BB 56), is washed overboard and disappears in the heavy seas.

Rear Adm. John W. Wilcox, Jr.

John Walter Wilcox Jr. (22 March 1882 – 27 March 1942) was a rear admiral of the United States Navy. He saw service in World War I and in the opening weeks of United States involvement in World War II before being lost overboard from his flagship in the North Atlantic Ocean in 1942.

March 27, 2007
The last known female veteran of World War I, Charlotte Louise Berry Winters, dies at the age of 109. She enlisted in the Navy in 1917.

March 28, 1953
USS Philippine Sea (CV 47), USS Princeton (CV 37), and USS Oriskany (CV 34) launch 216 sorties against a North Korean supply depot during the Korean War.

March 29, 1960
The first fully integrated Fleet Ballistic Missile system test, an A1X test vehicle, is launched from USS Observation Island (EAG 154).

March 30, 1991
USS Princeton (CG-59) and crew are awarded the Combat Action Ribbon in recognition of the superior and arduous work the crew put in to keep the ship in war-fighting status following the Feb. 18 mining of the ship where three crew members were injured and the ships propeller was damaged during Operation Desert Storm.

March 31, 1917
Rear Adm. James H. Oliver takes possession of the Danish West Indies for the United States, and they are renamed the U.S. Virgin Islands. He also becomes the first governor of the islands under American control.

April 1, 1899
A landing party of 60 men from USS Philadelphia (C 4) and a force of 100 friendly natives join 62 men from HMS Porpoise and Royal Isle in Samoa to establish order over Samoan throne.

*Source: Naval History and Heritage Command. https://www.history.navy.mil