the command received its first navy unit commendation for treatment of over 5,800 casualties from the korean war. a second navy unit commendation was awarded for services rendered during the vietnam war. in 1973, the base was revitalized with the arrival of the aircraft carrier uss "midway" and the start of the overseas family residency program. due to the increased importance of the middle east and far east theatres, a new hospital facility was built in 1980 and opened on february 10, 1981.