This US Navy machine embroidered patch measures 3.5" by 3.25", used condition.

Operation Deep Freeze was a series of U.S. Navy missions that supported scientific research and exploration in Antarctica. The missions were conducted from 1955 to 2022 and involved a variety of military and civilian personnel.

Task Force 43 was the designation for the U.S. Navy component of Operation Deep Freeze. The task force was responsible for providing logistical support to the research teams stationed in Antarctica, as well as conducting scientific research of its own.

The first Task Force 43 deployment occurred in 1955, and subsequent deployments were conducted on a regular basis. The missions included transporting personnel, supplies, and equipment to and from Antarctica, building and maintaining research facilities, and conducting research on topics such as glaciology, meteorology, and oceanography.

One of the most notable accomplishments of Task Force 43 was the construction of McMurdo Station, which served as the main U.S. research facility in Antarctica. The station was built in the late 1950s and has been continuously occupied ever since.

In addition to its logistical and scientific missions, Task Force 43 also played a role in search and rescue operations in Antarctica. The harsh and remote environment of Antarctica made these operations particularly challenging, but the Navy personnel were able to successfully carry out several rescues over the years.

Overall, Task Force 43 and Operation Deep Freeze have been important in advancing scientific knowledge and exploration in Antarctica, as well as strengthening U.S. presence and cooperation in the region.