This is the replica patch commeorating the USS Wasp's role in the Gemini capsule recoveries. The quick tell is the offset appearance of the rocket exhaust.
NEW ORLEANS next participated in recovery operations for the Skylab II and Skylab III missions. She was also present for the recovery of astronauts Stafford, Slayton, and Brand during the joint American-Soviet Apollo-Soyuz mission of July 05, 1975.