In July 1960 the squadron was scheduled for a five-month deployment to NS Rota, Spain, for duties with the Sixth Fleet, but in September the deployment was rescheduled. VP-5 became the first full squadron to be deployed to Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily, after the base became operational. From April to May 1961 VP-5 participated in exercises in the Caribbean as well as aiding in the recovery of America's first astronaut, Commander Alan Shepard, on 5 May 1961. In July 1961 as part of the Project Mercury recovery team, VP-5 aided in the recovery of Captain Gus Grissom, US Air Force. On 1 September 1962 the squadron participated in the recovery of Commander Wally Schirra.
