On National Vietnam Veterans Day, we recognize and remember the sacrifices of Vietnam War veterans who were denied a proper welcome upon returning home more than 50 years ago. The date, March 29, was chosen because on March 29, 1973, Military Assistance Command-Vietnam (MACV) was disbanded, and the last U.S. combat troops departed the Republic of Vietnam.
Naval History and Heritage Command confirmed the identity of the wreck site of USS Herring (SS-233), World War II submarine, off the coast of Matsuwa Island, Japan, on June 1, 2026.
In the pre-dawn hours of April 15, 1986, U.S. Navy and Marine Corps aviators aboard the USS America and USS Coral Sea launched into the darkness of the Mediterranean Sea on orders from President Ronald Reagan. This year marks the 40th anniversary of their pivotal role in a complex, joint strike against the state-sponsored terrorism of Libyan dictator Muammar Gadhafi.
U.S. Navy history is filled with numerous legendary figures stretching back over 250 years. From John Paul Jones, in the revolutionary war, and Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, in the 19th century, to Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz in World War II and Medal of Honor recipient Michael P. Murphy in the 21st century. But among these naval heroes one, perhaps lesser known, individual is often overlooked. A man whose vision and leadership would...
WASHINGTON - In the murky depths of Lake Champlain, the skeletal remains of the Continental Navy schooner Royal Savage rested for over 150 years, a silent witness to the birth of the American Navy.
Over the past nine years the Chief of Naval Operations, CNO, has hosted an annual essay contest, challenging participants to draw on lessons learned throughout naval history to address major issues facing the modern U.S. Navy. This year’s competition commemorates the enduring legacy of the United States Navy and the 250th anniversary of the Nation.
Naval History and Heritage Command is best known for collecting historical artifacts from naval history, everything from artwork to cruise books to ship’s bells. Perhaps the most important collection of all are the official historical records that document the operational history of over 2,500 U.S. Navy commands. These records are known as command operations reports, or CORs. They detail deployments, exercises, significant events, and key...
Over the past 250 years, the U.S. Navy has maintained a global presence, building a legacy rooted in its commitment to preserving freedom, promoting stability and defending democratic values worldwide. Among its many traditions, one stands out for its creativity and spirit: the New Year’s Deck Log Poem.
