Sandy - If you're looking for Military accronyms, google on US Navy, USCG, miltary accronyms or abbreviations. If your looking for US Navy or USCG ship designations, google on US Navy or USCG vessel abbreviations or designations. The term WLV or WAL stands for light Vessels and these were assigned depending on the time frame they were active. Modern days abbreviations such as WHEC(High Endurance Cutter), WMEC(Mediun Endurance Cutter), WPB(Patrol Craft) etc. can be found at the Vessel Desination site and at this site there is a link for light vessel designations.