VP-23

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Of course, there aren't many Soviet submarines in Maine, so Tom and the boys deployed to Iceland to find some.

In a travesty of justice, Tom was initially assigned to the right seat, as a lowly copilot.

But eventually his true worth was recognized and he assumed his rightful position as Pilot In Command.

Here Tom scans the North Atlantic for enemy submarines.

. . . and chastises his lowly copilot.

Back in operations after a successful mission, showing the Secret Sign.

Occasionally, Tom assumed a disguise for secret missions into enemy territory.

To keep proficient, Navy pilots are required to venture off to distant lands. Here's Tom and the gang after a hard day of hunting submarines in Amsterdam over Christmas.

Unfortunately, the town closes up for two days with the exception of--of course--the red light district and van Gogh museum. So they saw the artist without an ear and naked uglies in windows, and they went for trolley rides.

But dinner was good and so was the camaraderie.

Back in their room, the crew plans the next day's mission.

The Mission Commander begins the briefing.

Tom demonstrates use of surveillance equipment.

His crew listens attentively.

In case of capture, self-defense techniques must be perfected.

Here Tom wrestles a simulated attacker.

Here's Tom in Rosie Roads, Puerto Rico, after a successful missile shoot.

Tom scouted enemy gun emplacements

Even on his days off, Tom was hunting submarines. Everywhere.

Here Tom has collapsed from exhaustion.

Even on his days off, Tom was hunting submarines. Everywhere.

With his surveillance equipment firmly in hand.

Even on his days off, Tom was hunting submarines. Everywhere.

Here Tom has collapsed from exhaustion.

Did you like that shot, ladies? Here's another one.

OK, one more but that's it.

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