Fleet Units

CARRIER AIR WING ONE (CVW-1)
Carrier Air Wing One has been in commission longer than any other Navy Air Wing. Since commissioning on July 1, 1938, CVW-1 has served aboard twenty-one different carriers, made 47 major deployments and had a majority of the East Coast squadrons as members of the Navy's "First and Foremost." CVW-1 was originally "The Ranger Air Group" and served aboard USS Ranger (CV-4) during the early years of carrier aviation. Air Wing One also operated aboard all Three carriers in commission at that time—USS Langley (CV-1), USS Lexington (CV-2) and USS Saratoga (CV-3). After commencement of World War II and until 1943, Air Wing One participated in the North African Campaign and operated in all parts of the Atlantic and Pacific. The Air Wing saw action against Japan from the Philippines to Tokyo, earning two Presidential Unit Citations in addition to having nurtured many naval heroes. Between 1946 and 1957 Air Wing One served aboard nine different carriers, including around the world cruises on USS Tarawa and USS Midway. During the 1956-57 Suez Crisis, the Air Wing was aboard the first super carrier, USS Forrestal, in support of Allied Forces in the Mediterranean. In 1962, the Air Wing was assigned to USS Enterprise for her shakedown cruise and fleet review for President John F. Kennedy. Later, aboard USS Franklin D. Roosevelt, the Air Wing conducted flight operations off the coast of Vietnam between June 1966 and February 1967. Deployed to the Mediterranean in 1975 aboard USS John F. Kennedy, the Air Wing brought to these waters the Navy's newest tactical aircraft, the F-14A Tomcat air superiority fighter and the S-3A Viking antisubmarine warfare aircraft.

CVW-1 was assigned to USS America (CV-66) in mid-1982, and in the 1984 deployment completed a record setting 102 consecutive days underway period while on Gonzo station in the Indian Ocean. In January and February 1987, CVW-1 completed the first major Air Wing operations aboard the Navy's newest nuclear powered aircraft carrier, the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71).

In response to Iraq's invasion of Kuwait, on Dec. 28, 1990, CVW-1 and her Air Wing embarked on board USS America (CV-66) and departed Norfolk, Va., en route to the Mediterranean and transited the Suez Canal to be in place in the Red Sea on D-Day, Jan. 17, 1991 for Operation Desert Storm. During this campaign, the wing flew a total of 1,300 sorties into the Kuwait Theater of Operations. In August 1991, CVW-1 and her squadrons deployed on board USS America to participate in Advanced Phase Training—North Star '91 off the Norwegian coast and fleetex. North Star '91 was highlighted by another CVW-1 historic first; CVW-1 was the first Air Wing to operate from a carrier in the Frohavet (A small Norwegian Fjord).

In December 1991, CVW-1 and her squadrons deployed on board USS America to the Mediterranean Sea, Red Sea and North Arabian Gulf in support of Post-Desert Storm operations. CVW-1 assumed the watch for Operations Deny Flight, Provide Promise and Sharp Guard, enforcing the No-Fly Zone over the war-torn countryside of Bosnia-Herzegovina. In late October, the America/CVW-1 team was called down to Somalia in support of Operation Continue Hope and, upon the transit back through the Red Sea, flew several missions for Operation Southern Watch over Iraq.

CVW-1 departed Norfolk in October 1995 embarked in USS America for another Mediterranean cruise. The deployment began with a bang, with the USS America/CVW-1 team launching strikes into Bosnia-Herzegovina in support of Operations Deliberate Force and Deny Flight, Three days after entering the Mediterranean. Highlights included the first successful operational employment of the standoff land attack missile (SLAM) in the theater, and a lethal 83 percent direct aim point hit rate for laser-guided ordnance. In mid November, USS America transited the Suez Canal en route to the Persian Gulf where CVW-1 conducted flight operations in support of Operation Southern Watch. Although enforcing the United Nations no-fly zone over southern Iraq was the primary mission, the air wing was also tasked with monitoring seagoing traffic to and from Iraq.

While America was in the Gulf, support of the preliminary peace agreement in Bosnia was anticipated and the America/CVW-1 team was ordered back to the Adriatic Sea. Steaming 4,000 miles in nine days, the America returned to the Adriatic where they remained for the rest of the deployment. From the time America departed Norfolk, Air Wing One accumulated over 26,000 flight hours and 11,500 arrested landings. Upon return to her homeport of Norfolk, the USS America was scheduled for decommissioning following 31 years of service.

In November 1997 the National Command Authority tasked the George Washington to proceed to the Persian Gulf to join up with the USS Nimitz Battle Group in support of Operation Southern Watch and United Nations sanctions enforcement against Iraq. Transitioning through the Suez Canal on Nov. 15, the George Washington/CVW-1 team arrived on station in the Gulf on Nov. 20, where CVW-1 commenced flight operations in support of Operation Southern Watch.

In 1998, CVW-1 began completing the second half of the Joint Task Group (JTG) 98-1 deployment to the Mediterranean Sea/Arabian Gulf. The CVW-1/USS George Washington (CVN-73) team has been operating in the Arabian Gulf since Nov. 20, 1997 in support of Operation Southern Watch and United Nations sanctions enforcement against Iraq.

On Feb. 28, 1998, the crewmembers of CVW-1 earned the right to call themselves the finest air wing in the United States Atlantic Fleet when six of nine squadrons garnered the Commander, Naval Air Forces and U.S. Atlantic Fleet Battle Efficiency Award. On September 21, the CVW-1/USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67) team began its scheduled deployment. After turnover procedures with CVW-8 and USS Constellation (CV-64) on September 29, CVW-1 and USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67) assumed the watch in the Mediterranean Sea.

After the completion of JTFEX in August 2001, CVW-1 deployed on Sept. 19, 2001 for JTG 01-03 on the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71), just eight days after the September 11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Centers and the Pentagon. The Roosevelt led a battle group out of Naval Station Norfolk and headed for a new kind of war against a different and far more elusive foe. Originally scheduled for Operation Bright Star, USS Theodore Roosevelt and the CVW-1 Air Wing was called for a more important role: to relieve the USS Enterprise and continue the attacks on the Taliban in Afghanistan. And so, less than a month into cruise, CVW-1 traveled through the ditch toward the Arabian Sea. After arriving on station, CVW-1 immediately turned over with the USS Enterprise and the air wing immediately launched aircraft into Afghanistan in direct support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) on Oct. 17, 2001.

To comply with a two-carrier requirement, CVW-1 was assigned the night shift, while the USS Carl Vinson and CVW-11 flew days. As of Feb. 4, 2002, Air Wing One flew over 9,597 sorties, 3,780 in direct support of OEF. CVW-1 strafed and dropped 861 tons of ordnance consisting of JDAM, GBU-12/16, Maverick and GP bombs, weather and target dependent. Many targets were unknown to the aircrew at launch time. On-the-fly coordinates were derived from the F-14 LANTIRN's Tomcat Tactical Targeting (T3) System, or from Ground Forward Air Controllers designations. JDAMs and GBU-12s were deployed with superb accuracy. JDAMs were especially useful through the weather.

Controllers in the mountains called in airborne fire support from B-1s, FA-18s, F-14s and F-15s. Air Wing One's operational accomplishments were many. The VFA-82 Marauders broke the monthly F/A-18 flight-time number when it logged 1,309 hours in December, 2001. The VF-102 Diamondbacks also busted a squadron record with 1,184 hours in November. The VS-32 Maulers pumped an unprecedented 5 million pounds of JP-5. Their missions consisted primarily of long-range mission tanking over Pakistan enabling strike aircraft to arrive on station in Afghanistan nearly topped off. The VAQ-137 Rooks were the first Prowler squadron to deploy with Night Vision Devices, which proved so effective in combat. Apprehensions associated with multiple aircraft sharing the night sky, or trying to find the tanker in pitch-blackness, were eased by introduction of goggles in the EA-6B community.

In our final major record breaking attempt, Carrier Air Wing One has set the record for the most number of consecutive days at sea by a U.S. warship on Feb. 19, 2002. Carrier Air Wing One is honored to support America's War on Terrorism and looks forward to continued successful missions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. We are grateful for the unwavering support we have been shown by the American public. Naval Aviation is alive and well at a time when this nation is most depending on it.

CVW-1 continued to support America's war on terrorism during JTG 01-04 as part of the Enterprise Strike Group onboard the USS Enterprise (CVN 65) deployed to the Mediterranean and Arabian Gulf. As the catalyst in execution of an aggressive Strike Warfare Campaign during Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, the air wing flew 11,029 sorties, 19,524 flight hours with a sortie completion rate of 99 percent. CVW-1 participated in Summer Pulse 2004, the Navy's first validation of the Fleet Response Plan (FRP). FRP allows the Navy to maintain an increased level of readiness in order to be able to respond to real world events. The air wing conducted exercises with coalition forces from Portugal, United Kingdom, Norway, Sweden, Belgium, France, Spain, Morocco, Italy, Germany and the Netherlands. Areas of operation covered the north Atlantic to the coast of Morocco during Pulse. The exercises included NEO TAPON, Joint Maritime Course (JMC) and Majestic Eagle (ME), in addition to hosting the 67th Joint Civilian Orientation Conference (JCOC) onboard the USS Enterprise.

CVW-1 was again deployed in 2006 to support continuing combat operations supporting the Global War on Terror. CVW-1 and the Enterprise Strike Group deployed to the 6th, 5th and 7th fleet areas of responsibility, participating in Maritime Security Operations in the Mediterranean Sea, Arabian Gulf and Pacific Ocean. CVW-1 aircraft flew more than 2,184 combat missions and dropped 133 precision-guided weapons in support of Coalition ground forces. CVW-1 conducted a "split-deployment," basing EA-6B and F/A-18 aircraft at Al Asad Air Base in Iraq, while continuing operations in Afghanistan from Enterprise.

The 2006 deployment was followed by a second surge deployment seven months later to the U.S. Central Command Theater of operations, where CVW-1 supported combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Between both deployments, CVW-1 logged more than 52,000 total flight hours. During the second deployment, Enterprise and CVW-1 participated in an historic first; the recovery and launch of a French Rafale F2 jet on a U.S. aircraft carrier. The French Chief of Naval Operations and the U.S. Ambassador to France were on board to witness the event. CVW-1 and the Enterprise Strike Group also became the first carrier strike group to make a port call in France since 2001.

During its 2007 deployment, CVW-1 flew more than 1,678 combat missions, dropping 73 air-to-ground weapons in support of Coalition forces. In a testament to the Navy's versatility, CVW-1 and the Enterprise Strike Group made a dramatic shift in operations while in the Northern Arabian Gulf. Within 36 hours of recovering the last helicopter in the Northern Arabian Gulf, CVW-1 and Enterprise had moved to the North Arabian Sea to begin air operations over Afghanistan. Following the successful 2007 surge deployment, CVW-1 and USS Enterprise returned to the Hampton Roads area for an extended maintenance and training period. During this period, CVW-1, in concert with USS Enterprise, received the 2008 Department of the Navy Safety Excellence Award. CVW-1 is composed of the VFA-11 "Red Rippers," VFA-136 "Knighthawks," VFA-211 "Checkmates," VMFA-251 "Thunderbolts," VAQ-137 "Rooks," VAW-123 "Screwtops" and HS-11 "Dragonslayers." VFA-11 and VFA-211 transitioned to the F/A 18F Super Hornet from the F-14 Tomcat in 2005. VFA-136 transitioned to the F/A-18E Super Hornet from the F/A-18C Hornet in 2008. VMFA-251 currently flies the F/A-18C Hornet, VAQ-137 the EA-6B ICAP III Prowler, VAW 123 the E-2C Hawkeye, and HS-11 the SH-60F and HH-60H Seahawk helicopters.

STRIKE FIGHTER
SQUADRON ELEVEN
"RED RIPPERS"
The Red Rippers were commissioned in 1927 as VF-5S in the earliest days of Naval Aviation and are proud to be the Navy's oldest continuously active fighter squadron. The Rippers began their distinguished heritage in Hampton Roads, Va. flying the Curtis F6C-3 Hawk. They served in both theaters of World War II, in the Korean War, the Vietnam War and in Operations Provide Comfort and Southern Watch in the Persian Gulf and Operation Enduring Freedom in the North Arabian Sea. From the decks of the USS Langley, America's first carrier, to the USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67), the Red Rippers have written the history of Naval Aviation.

From their commissioning in 1927 until World War II, the Rippers flew a number of propeller aircraft including the Boeing F3B-1 and F4B-1, and the Grumman FF-1 and F3F-1, and held the following squadron designations: VF-5S, VB1B, VF-5 and VF-4.

During World War II, the Rippers (then known as VF-41) supported the allied invasion of North Africa, downing 16 enemy aircraft in the Grumman F4F-3 Wildcat. They then conducted the first air strikes against German forces in Norway in September 1943. The Red Rippers (re-designated VF-A) transferred to the Pacific theater in 1944 onboard USS Bunkerhill and USS Essex. There they flew the first air strikes against Tokyo in the Grumman F6F Hellcat.

In 1948, the Red Rippers became Fighter Squadron Eleven (VF-11), their current designation. In the post-World War II years, the Red Rippers leaped into the jet age, flying the McDonnell F2H-1 Banshee. They flew the Banshee during the Korean War from the flight deck of USS Kearsarge. In 1959, the Rippers transitioned to the Chance-Vought F-8 Crusader on board USS Roosevelt from where they later helped to quell unrest in the Dominican Republic. In 1965, the Rippers moved to Naval Air Station Oceana flying the F-4B Phantom II and saw action against North Vietnam in 1967 off USS Forrestal (CV-59). The Red Rippers transitioned to the F-14A Tomcat in 1980 and made their first cruise deployed on USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67) in 1982. On May 30, 1991, the Red Rippers made their final deployment with Carrier Air Wing Six flying from the flight deck of USS Forrestal in support of Operation Provide Comfort in Northern Iraq.

On July 12, 1992, the Red Rippers joined Carrier Air Wing Fourteen at Naval Air Station Miramar and began turnaround training in the F-14D. In February 1994, the Rippers deployed on board USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) in support of Operation Southern Watch, the first cruise for the "Super Tomcat." The Rippers completed a second cruise on Vinson in 1996, supporting combat operations against Iraq during Operation Desert Strike. In December 1996, the Rippers moved back to NAS Oceana, transitioned to the F-14B, and joined Carrier Air Wing Seven. The Red Rippers made their first deployment in the F-14B on board USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74), her maiden deployment. This deployment was an around-the-world cruise providing support for Operation Southern Watch.

In February 2000, the Rippers completed a highly successful deployment on board USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, providing support to operations in both Kosovo and Iraq. During that deployment, the Rippers became the first squadron to drop bombs in anger from the deck of the Eisenhower. On Sept. 11, 2001, Fighter Squadron Eleven was called to action. The Rippers provided homeland and coastal defense in support of Operation Noble Eagle in response to the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. The Rippers deployed in February 2002 on board USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67) with Carrier Air Wing Seven, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Returning from deployment, Fighter Squadron Eleven commenced a demanding turnaround readiness cycle, including firing 18 air-to-air missiles, dropping over 20 tons of air to ground ordnance, and training against the formidable MIG-29s from the NATO Adversary Group.

In January 2004, the world famous Red Rippers began a six-month deployment to the Arabian Gulf where they flew combat missions in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from the flight deck of USS George Washington (CVN 73). This marked the final deployment for VF-11 flying the Grumman F-14B Tomcat. While on this deployment, VF-11 achieved the highest landing grades in Carrier Air Wing Seven (CVW 7) and was subsequently presented the CVW-7 "Top Hook" award for the 2004 cruise. The Red Rippers flew a total of 2,851.6 hours and 264 Operation Iraqi Freedom combat sorties during their deployment. This translated to an astounding 100 percent sortie completion rate for VF-11 and stands as a testament to the unmatched Ripper maintenance department.

The Red Rippers returned in July and executed a surge period until December with CVW-7, and then maintained operational readiness for another surge period with CVW-17. In April 2005, Fighter Squadron Eleven became a Strike-Fighter Squadron by transitioning to the F/A-18F Rhino. This transition was completed in November 2005 with VFA-11 attached to CVW 17. On Nov. 5, 2007 the Rippers embarked on their first combat deployment flying the "Rhino" aboard the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) as a member of CVW-3. During this deployment the Rippers continued their long history of superior tactical employment, by leading the air wing in ordnance released in support of the troops on the ground in Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. While deployed they released 40 tons ordnance and flew over 1,800 sorties totaling more than 5,070 embarked hours.

The Red Rippers joined CVW-1 on Sept. 30, 2008, and today, VFA-11 exercises the full gamut of strike-fighter missions, including air superiority, strike, maritime superiority, forward air control (airborne), and combat search and rescue. The Rippers also excel as a night attack platform, utilizing night vision devices to perform a variety of missions.

After 80 years of continuous service with 27 different fighter aircraft and onboard 25 different aircraft carriers, the Red Rippers carry on their proud tradition as the Navy's oldest continuously active fighter squadron, as they look forward to their upcoming deployment aboard USS Enterprise (CVN-65). Here's to us!

STRIKE FIGHTER SQUADRON ONE THIRTY-SIX
"KNIGHTHAWKS"
Strike Fighter Squadron One Thirty-Six was established in July 1985 at Naval Air Station, Lemoore, Calif. Seven months later, the Knighthawks changed home-port to Cecil Field Naval Air Station where they trained and resided until their most recent relocation to Naval Air Station Oceana in December 1998. Though a young squadron in a Navy that favors tradition, VFA-136 rapidly established itself as a leader in the Strike Fighter community. VFA-136 first deployed in September 1987 with Carrier Air Wing Thirteen on board the USS Coral Sea (CV43). One year later, the Knighthawks joined Carrier Air Wing Seven on the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN69). During the Ike's "Centennial Cruise" in 1990, the Knighthawks participated in Exercises "Distant Thunder," "Dragon Hammer '90" and "DASIX." These opportunities to work with French, British, Italian and Tunisian forces provided invaluable training for VFA-136. The cruise took its most serious turn after Iraq invaded Kuwait on Aug. 2, 1990. In support of Operation "Desert Shield," USS Dwight D. Eisenhower was on station in the Red Sea within 36 hours, becoming the first carrier to conduct sustained operations in the area. Upon returning from deployment, all Knighthawk aircraft were upgraded to the new Lot XIII Night Attack version, becoming the first fully operational night strike fighter Hornet squadron in the Navy.

In October 1991, the Knighthawks and Ike were back to the Middle East to enforce the peace accords set after Operation "Desert Storm." Following those operations, the team transitioned to the North Atlantic to participate in the NATO Exercise "Teamwork '92." At the time, this was the largest NATO exercise in over Three years.

When the Knighthawks returned from deployment, they started preparations for CVW-7's move to the USS George Washington (CVN-73). The squadron completed this transition in the fall of 1992 with the GW shakedown cruise. As part of its maiden deployment in May 1994, GW was the flagship for the celebration of the 50th Anniversary of D-Day and hosted President Clinton during the ceremonies. After the D-Day celebration, the Knighthawks participated in NATO Operations "Deny Flight," "Southern Watch" and "Vigilant Warrior." In addition to supporting NATO, VFA-136 also participated in exercises in England, France, Sicily, Jordan, Tunisia, Bahrain and Oman. GW's maiden deployment returned to Norfolk in November 1994.

After another short turn around cycle, the squadron deployed again aboard GW in January 1996 for Med 96-1. The Knighthawks participated in Operation "Decisive Endeavor," helping the GW Battle Group in providing peace to Bosnia-Herzegovina. After Operations in the Adriatic Sea, the Knighthawks honored commitments in the Arabian Gulf, flying in support of Operation "Southern Watch," where the Battle Group helped enforce the U.N. sanctions against Iraq. The squadron capped off the deployment by winning both the Air Wing Bombing Derby and "Top Hook" awards.

In February 1998, the Knighthawks embarked on the maiden deployment of USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74). During its circumnavigation of the globe, the Battle Group supported Operation "Southern Watch." The deployment culminated with the arrival in San Diego, Calif. Immediately following their return from cruise, the Knighthawks changed homeport to NAS Oceana, Va.

In February 2000, the squadron returned to USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) for the Millennium Med Cruise/Persian Gulf Deployment. While in the Mediterranean, they initiated a first everjoint exercise with the armed forces of Hungary and participated in Operations "Joint Force" and "Joint Guardian" over the countries of Bosnia and Kosovo. Shortly thereafter, the Battle Group endured the heat of the Persian Gulf in support of Operation "Southern Watch," where the Knighthawks dropped ordnance in combat for the first time in the squadron's history.

On Sept. 11, 2001, VFA-136 was the first Navy squadron to deploy within an hour's notice to the USS George Washington in support of Operation "Noble Eagle." There they flew armed combat air patrol missions protecting the Northeast corridor of the United States following the terrorist attacks. In February 2002, after a turn around cycle, the Knighthawks deployed aboard the USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67) in direct support of Operation "Enduring Freedom" and the war on terrorism. This deployment demonstrated the tactical performance of the Knighthawks as they provided support for combined ground forces engaged in battle. The Knighthawks led CVW-7 across the beach on its first night in combat and provided five months of air superiority and close air support for coalition forces defending freedom on enemy soil.

The squadron began in 2003 by providing Orange Air Support to the future OIF war fighters in Puerto Rico. The Knighthawks were the last squadron to utilize the Vieques range before its closure in February 2003. Due to its closure VFA-136 along with CVW-7 joined CCSG-8 and completed their turn around cycle. The Knighthawks ended the year participating in one of the first COMTUEX's from the East Coast of the United States. In January 2004, the Knighthawks deployed aboard USS George Washington (CVN-73), in support of Operation "Iraqi Freedom." During this deployment, the squadron also participated in joint exercises with the Jordanians, with the United Arab Emirates, and with the Bahrainis in exercises "Infinite Acclaim," "Iron Agate" and "Initial Link," respectively. The Knighthawks ended an extremely successful deployment by winning the "Top Hook" award and topped this off by receiving the Commander Naval Air Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet 2004 Safety "S" Award.

After USS George Washington pulled into Norfolk in July 2004, the squadron commenced a six-month surge/maintenance phase, during which time they transitioned from CVW-7 to CVW-1 in January 2005. In March 2005, they participated in Joint Red Flag/Roving Sands, a large-scale exercise sponsored by the Joint Forces Command as a means of practicing joint-interoperability air defense tactics. During Roving Sands, the Knighthawks worked with the U.S. Army, Air Force and Marines as well as with the Royal British Air Force to provide essential support and training for the Army's air defense units. The Knighthawks completed their surge/maintenance phase with a successful Boat Detachment on USS Dwight D. Eisenhower in April 2005. They then commenced their workup cycle by detaching to Fallon, Nev. at the end of July/beginning of August 2005 for SFARP. In December 2005, the Knighthawks completed flight deck certification, carrier qualifications and Tailored Ships Training Availability (TSTA) on USS Enterprise (CVN-65). The Knighthawks ended the year on an extremely successful note by winning the 2005 Department of the Navy Safety Excellence Award.

During their history, the Knighthawks have received the prestigious FOX-1 award (now known as the Grand Slam) for Air-to-Air excellence as well as the Silver Bomb award for Air-to-Ground excellence and numerous squadron "Top Hook" awards. The Knighthawks have flown alongside many countries as well as against a wide variety of aircraft. Together, the 225 Sailors and 25 officers of VFA-136 have emerged as leaders in today's "Strike-Fighter" Navy.

STRIKE FIGHTER
SQUADRON TWO ELEVEN
"CHECKMATES"
On the cool first day of May in 1945, Bombing Squadron 74 was born, destined to become the present day Strike Fighter Squadron 211, the Fighting Checkmates. The VB-74 Bomb-a-Toms began life at NAAF Otis Field, Camp Edwards, Massachusetts with 36 Naval Aviators flying SBW-4E Helldivers. Shortly after establishment, the squadron was transferred to East Field, NAS Norfolk, and made their first traps aboard the newly commissioned USS Midway, Oct. 31, 1945. During 1946, VB-74 became Attack Squadron 1B and transitioned to AD-1 Skyraiders. Less than two years later, the Navy again reorganized its air groups and VA-1B became VA-24, flying AD-2 Skyraiders. Skyraider aircraft were soon grounded because of engine problems, requiring a hasty transition to the F4U-4 Corsair only six weeks before departing on deployment aboard the USS Coral Sea. After this deployment VA-24 moved to NAS Oceana, Va., and on Dec. 1, 1949 was redesignated Fighter Squadron 24.

After a move to NAS Alameda, Calif., VF-24 made two back-to-back deployments to Korea on USS Boxer and USS Valley Forge. Over Korea, VF-24 inflicted heavy damage on enemy emplacements, rail yards, bridges, warehouses and airfields. After the second deployment, VF-24 relocated to NALF Santa Rosa, Calif., and transitioned to the F9F-2 Panther, the squadron's first jet. In February 1952, VF-24 once again joined USS Boxer and headed to Korea for their third combat tour. Of note during this deployment was the August 29 strike on Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea. Shortly after the raid, USS Boxer headed home and VF-24 was once again moved to NAS Alameda.

Throughout the 1950s, VF-24 flew a number of aircraft. These included the FJ-3 Fury, the FJ-3M, the F3H-2M Demon, the F-11F Tiger, and finally the F-8 Crusader at NAS Moffett Field, Calif.

In 1959, VF-24 traded Air Wings and designations, and became the present day VF-211 Checkmates. In 1961 the Fighting Checkmates moved to NAS Miramar, their home for the next 35 years. On seven deployments during the Vietnam War, the Crusader carried VF-211 pilots to glory in combat against North Vietnamese Migs. By the end of the war, VF-211 had earned the reputation as "The Mig Killers," having downed eight enemy aircraft. In 1975 VF-211 transitioned to the F-14A Tomcat, upgrading in 1989 to the more powerful F-14B.

In 1991, the Fighting Checkmates deployed to the Arabian Gulf in support of Operation Desert Storm, providing air superiority and air reconnaissance imagery to coalition forces.

Transitioning back to the F-14A in 1992, the Fighting Checkmates deployed to the Arabian Gulf in 1993 and 1995-96. In August 1996, the Fighting Checkmates moved back to NAS Oceana, in conjunction with the turnover of Miramar to the U.S. Marine Corps.

VF-211 remained attached to Carrier Air Wing 9. In 1997 the squadron deployed aboard USS Nimitz, spending four months in the Arabian Gulf in support of Operation Southern Watch. VF-211 flew daily sorties over Iraq enforcing the UN imposed no-fly zone, providing valuable photo reconnaissance imagery, and ready to conduct precision strikes if ordered.

In 2000, VF-211 joined the USS John C. Stennis (CVN74) for the Millennium Cruise. Over a four month period in the Arabian Gulf, the Checkmates led the way conducting 16 precision strikes in support of Operation Southern Watch.

The year 2001 brought tragedy to our nation with the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11 and, as always, the Checkmates were called upon to respond. They deployed again with Carrier Air Wing 9, in an accelerated schedule that had VF-211 aircraft flying combat missions over Afghanistan by Christmas. The Checkmates left their mark on Operation Enduring Freedom and during a Three week battle named Operation Anaconda where, as the only F-14 platform available, they flew day and night sorties to defend coalition special forces and eliminate Al-Qaeda resistance. For their precision and innovation in strike warfare they were selected as the coveted VADM "Sweetpea" Allen Precision Strike award winner for 2002. The Checkmates returned after flying 1250 combat missions and began their transition to Carrier Air Wing 1.

VF-211's performance in 2002 was recognized throughout the fleet. For their achievements they were awarded the West Coast Battle "E" for battle efficiency by Commander Naval Air Force Pacific Fleet, the Grand Slam for excellence in Air-to-Air employment by Commander Naval Air Force Atlantic Fleet, and the Clifton Award for the most outstanding overall performance in battle efficiency and employment by Commander Naval Air Forces. The Checkmates deployed aboard USS Enterprise (CVN-65) in October 2003 in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. The squadron flew over 450 combat hours during October, November and December aiding the ground efforts in both theatres.

VFA-211 completed its transition to F/A-18F Super Hornets in March 2005. Upon their return to NAS Oceana, VFA-211 became the first operational East Coast Super Hornet Squadron, completing back-to-back combat deployments in support of OIF and OEF. In early 2008, the squadron transitioned to Block II Super Hornets.

The squadron logo depicts a character known as "Brutus" holding a rocket, from the original logo for VB-74. Eleven stars are arranged in groups of seven and four to mark the squadron's numerical designation, "74." The shield recalls the squadron's sixteen-year association with the F-8 Crusader. Since its establishment, VFA-211 has completed 40 deployments. Today, the Fighting Checkmates excel in the mission areas of counter-air, aerial reconnaissance and strike warfare. VFA 211 is now, as always, at the tip of the spear.

CARRIER AIR WING THREE (CVW-3)
Established on July 1, 1938, Carrier Air Wing Three (CVW-3) is one of the two oldest air wings in the U.S. Navy. Initially commissioned as Saratoga Air Group, CVW-3 participated in many fleet exercises introducing Carrier Aviation to the Fleet. During World War II, Air Wing Three served onboard USS Saratoga

(CV-3), USS Yorktown (CV-5) and USS
Enterprise (CV-6), participating in many naval engagements in the Pacific theater. Team Battle Axe fought in the battles of Midway, Guadalcanal, Philippine Sea and Iwo Jima, and flew many strikes against the Japanese home islands.

In 1950, CVW-3 sailed aboard USS Leyte (CV-32) through the Panama Canal en route to the Pacific. The Korean War saw the wing flying in support of the Pusan Perimeter, the invasion of Wonsan and strikes on the Hungnam Salient and Yalu River Bridges. CVW-3 flew nearly 11,000 hours of operations against North Korean and Chinese Communist forces.

In January 1958, Team Battle Axe joined USS Saratoga (CV 60), establishing a ship-air wing relationship that spanned almost a quarter century. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, CVW-3 deployed primarily to the Mediterranean.

In 1972, CVW-3 and Saratoga were given 60 hours notice before sailing around South America en route to Vietnam. During this 11 month deployment, CVW-3 provided strike and support sorties in South Vietnam, Alpha strikes, AAW missions and reconnaissance missions over North Vietnam. CVW-3's first MIG kill came on June 21 when an F-4J downed a MIG-21. CVW-3 spent 175 days engaged in combat and dropped over 14,000 tons of ordnance on that arduous deployment.

In 1982, CVW-3 joined USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67). From 1982 to 1989, CVW-3 and JFK made Three Mediterranean deployments. In January 1989, CVW-3 and JFK conducted freedom of navigation operations which challenged Libya's "Line of Death" in the Gulf of Sidra. During this operation two CVW-3 F-14 Tomcats shot down two hostile Libyan MIG fighters over international waters in the Central Mediterranean.

In August 1990, CVW-3 and JFK deployed to the Red Sea in support of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. During the Gulf War, CVW-3 delivered over 3,795,000 pounds of ordnance and flew 2,895 sorties without the loss of a single life or aircraft. From 1992 through 1997, CVW-3 completed Three more Mediterranean deployments onboard USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67), USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) and USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71). CVW-3 supported United Nations operations in Bosnia and enforced Operation Southern Watch no fly zone over Iraq. In November 1997, CVW-3, under operational control of Commander, Cruiser Destroyer Group Twelve, embarked onboard USS Enterprise (CVN-65) and deployed to the Persian Gulf

In November 2000, CVW-3 marked its 25TH deployment by joining USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75). The Battle Axe/Truman team spent four months on station in the Arabian Gulf conducting several response option strikes in support of Operation Southern Watch. This was HST's first deployment, and Team Battle Axe has been with her ever since.

On Dec. 6, 2002, CVW-3 and HST departed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, remaining in theater to participate in Operation Iraqi Freedom. CVW-3 launched aircraft from HST off the coast of Egypt in the South Eastern Mediterranean in support of operations in western Iraq. From October 2004 to April 2005 Team Battle Axe deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. After Hurricane Katrina struck in September 2005, CVW-3 provided logistical assistance, to include the rescue of several stranded victims. In November 2007 Team Battle Axe deployed to the Arabian Gulf for its 28th deployment, returning in June 2008.

CVW-3 has spent the last year completing its Fleet Readiness Training Program and is currently ready to deploy anywhere world-wide.

STRIKE FIGHTER SQUADRON THREE TWO
"SWORDSMEN"
The VFA-32 Swordsmen originated on Feb. 1, 1945 as VBF-3, when VF-3 was split to form two sister squadrons. VBF-3 was assigned to Carrier Air Group Three onboard USS Yorktown (CV-10) operating in the Pacific theater. Flying F6F-5 "Hellcats," VBF-3 pilots became the first Navy carrier-based pilots to strike the homeland of the Japanese Empire on Feb. 16. During the heavy action on that day, the squadron totaled 24 airborne kills of Japanese aircraft for which the Swordsmen were awarded the Presidential Unit Citation. In 1946 VBF-3 transitioned to F8F-1 "Bearcats" and was re-designated VF-4A. In August 1948 the squadron was re-designated again as VF-32, with the transition to the F4U-4.

At the outbreak of the Korean conflict, pilots of VF-32 were flying F4U-4 "Corsairs" aboard USS Leyte (CV-32). From October 1950 to January 1951, VF-32 participated in strikes against Korean targets including Wonsan Harbor, Puckchong, Chonjin and Chosin Reservoir. Noteworthy during this period was an incident that occurred during a strike against the Chosin Reservoir on Dec. 4, 1950. ENS Jesse L. Brown, the first African American Navy fighter pilot, was hit by anti-aircraft fire and forced down in North Korean territory. A squadron mate, LTJG Hudner, landed his aircraft alongside ENS Brown and attempted to rescue him. His efforts were in vain. For his heroic effort, LTJG Hudner was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor and ENS Brown was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. After operations in Korea, the squadron returned to the East Coast where they became the first operational unit to fly the Grumman F9F-6 "Cougar," the Navy's first swept wing jet fighter. VF-32 made subsequent deployments aboard USS Tarawa (CV-40) in 1953 and the USS Ticonderoga (CV-14) in 1955. In 1956 VF-32 became the first Navy squadron to transition to the new F8U-1 "Crusader" supersonic fighter. While deployed aboard USS Saratoga (CVA-60) as a unit of Carrier Air Group Three, VF-32 participated in the Lebanese conflict of 1958. During the Cuban missile crisis in late 1962, VF-32 flew 96 sorties in support of photo-reconnaissance flights and intelligence gathering missions. After returning from cruise in 1965, the squadron changed homeport from Naval Air Station Cecil Field, Florida to Naval Air Station Oceana, Virginia and transitioned to the F-4B "Phantom II." VF-32 detached from Carrier Air Group Three, ending a relationship that had lasted continuously since the squadron's establishment.

VF-32 embarked aboard the USS Franklin D. Roosevelt (CVA-42) in June 1966 as a component of Carrier Air Group One and sailed for Southeast Asia. The squadron flew 940 combat sorties during Three line periods in five months, building a highly successful combat record, losing no aircraft or aircrew. In May 1968, VF-32 deployed aboard USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67) for her maiden voyage. In 1971, the squadron received the Meritorious Unit Commendation for actions in support of Sixth Fleet operations during the Middle East Crisis.

In 1974 VF-32 introduced the F-14A "Tomcat" to the East Coast and made the first Atlantic Fleet F-14 deployment in June 1975. On that cruise, VF-32 was awarded the Admiral Joseph Clifton Award as the Navy's top fighter squadron. In October 1977, VF-32 became the first fleet squadron to fly against the Air Force F-15, setting the stage for regularly scheduled dissimilar air combat training between the Air Force and Navy. The Gypsies of VF-32 again embarked for the Mediterranean aboard the USS Kennedy in June 1978. During this deployment VF-32 conducted the first fleet test and evaluation of the new and highly successful Television Camera System. The Swordsmen also deployed with AIM-9L missiles for the first fleet captive-carry evaluation. A mid-cruise missile exercise, "Buzzardex," was an outstanding success with firings of AIM-54A Phoenix and AIM-7F Sparrow missiles at five Mach 2.5 targets. In October 1979, VF-32 completed an unprecedented 10 years of accident-free flying. In those 10 years the squadron flew over 33,000 hours with 17,000 of those in the F-14A "Tomcat." In 1980 the Swordsmen were again presented with the Admiral Clifton Award. The Swordsmen enjoyed an accident-free Mediterranean cruise aboard USS Kennedy in 1980 and 1981.

In 1982 the squadron completed another accident-free Mediterranean deployment aboard USS Independence (CV 62) and was awarded the 1982 COMNAVAIRLANT Battle "E" and CNO Safety "S." In 1983, VF-32 incorporated the Tactical Air Reconnaissance Pod System (TARPS) into the squadron aircraft. In 1983 84, the Swordsmen completed the Navy's first combat deployment since the Vietnam era with CVW-6 aboard USS Independence. Fighter Squadron 32 flew combat air patrol missions and provided TARPS imagery for the Dec. 4, 1983 CVW-6/CVW-3 air strikes on Syrian positions in Lebanon and flew missions in support of American forces in Grenada. The deployment concluded with participation in NATO exercise "Teamwork 84" in the Norwegian Sea. After a quick turnaround, the Swordsmen made a third deployment aboard USS Independence from October 1984 through February 1985 to the Mediterranean and Indian Ocean.

The Swordsmen rejoined CVW-3 in February 1985, and embarked aboard USS Kennedy in August 1986 for another Mediterranean deployment. This cruise saw the Swordsmen Class "A" safety record extended yet another year, but also included the first night F-14 barricade.

VF-32 participated in a variety of NATO and combined exercises, and extended their major mishap-free safety record to nine years during a 1988-89 Mediterranean deployment, again aboard the USS Kennedy. On Jan. 4, 1989, a section of "Gypsy" Tomcats, while conducting routine operations north of Libya, were vectored on two approaching Libyan Fighters. After attempts at a peaceful intercept, and with hostile intent evident, the section of Swordsmen met the threat and fired AIM-7 and AIM-9 missiles, downing two Libyan MIG-23 Floggers. The combat proven Swordsmen returned to Oceana in February 1989.

In August 1990, the Swordsmen joined Carrier Air Wing Three and USS John F. Kennedy on her rapid deployment to the Red Sea in support of Operation Desert Shield. Combat operations over Iraq from Jan. 16 to Feb. 28, 1991 marked the sixth decade of Swordsmen participation in armed conflict. Throughout Operation Desert Storm, VF-32 aircrew logged 1,445 combat flight hours on 403 missions, including 38 combat TARPS missions. The Gypsies returned from the Red Sea March 28, 1991 to a hearty "Welcome Home." Later that year, the Swordsmen won the 1991 Airlant Grand Slam missile firing competition with an unprecedented 17 of 17 scored kills.

Fighting 32 and the USS Kennedy again deployed in October 1992. The Gypsies conducted a great deal of air-to-ground operations while on cruise, marking the beginning of the Tomcat strike-fighter mission. The Swordsmen returned home to NAS Oceana in April 1993 and throughout the summer conducted joint Air Combat Maneuvering (ACM) exercises with the Air Force. The year was highlighted with presentations of the Golden Wrench, Battle "E" and Clifton Awards to VF-32.

In May 1994, VF-32 and CVW-3 embarked aboard USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). This four-week deployment marked the first extensive at-sea period where women worked alongside men on a fleet aircraft carrier. In September, a small detachment provided crucial TARPS photography and air support for Operation Restore Democracy in Haiti.

In November 1994, VF-32 deployed onboard USS Eisenhower for another tour in the Mediterranean and the Indian Ocean. The Gypsies flew missions over Iraq in support of Operation Southern Watch and over Bosnia/Herzegovina in support of Operation Deny Flight. 1995 marked fifty years of service from the men and women of VF-32. In November 1996, VF-32 and CVW-3 deployed onboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) for another tour in support of Operation Deny Flight and Operation Southern Watch over Bosnia and Iraq. The cruise proved to be yet another milestone as the Gypsies brought digital imagery to the TARPS mission. The squadron received the Meritorious Unit Commendation for its cutting edge work with Digital TARPS. In August 1997, the Swordsmen of VF-32 began transitioning from the F-14A to F-14B. In February 1998, the Swordsmen once again found themselves improving upon their stable of aircraft by transitioning to F-14B Upgrade. In November 1998, VF-32 and CVW-3 deployed onboard USS Enterprise (CVN 65) to the Arabian Gulf and Mediterranean Sea to support Operations Southern Watch and Deliberate Forge. From Dec. 16 to 19, 1998, Carrier Air Wing Three participated in combat operation against Iraqi targets in Operation Desert Fox. The Gypsies expended over 111,000 pounds of precision-guided munitions while participating in 16 strike missions and 38 sorties. Many Tomcat firsts were achieved including the first GBU 24s to be dropped by the Navy in combat, the first multiple "consecutive miracles" GBU-24 drop by any platform in combat, the first combat use of the LANTIRN targeting pod, the first autonomous F-14 delivery of a GBU-10/16/24, and the first use of Night Vision Devices (NVD) in combat. The combat proven Swordsmen completed this historic deployment and returned to NAS Oceana in May 1999.

The Swordsmen deployed again in November 2000, for the maiden voyage of USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75). This time they spent four months in support of Operation Southern Watch as the only deployed Tomcat squadron in the world. Swordsmen Maintenance also won the coveted CVW-3 Golden Wrench award in two back to back line periods as well as for the entire cruise by having a sortie completion rate of over 99.7 percent. VF-32 returned home to Oceana on May 23, 2001.

In December 2002, the Swordsmen deployed once again aboard USS Truman to the Mediterranean Sea in support of Operations Noble Eagle, Northern Watch and Iraqi Freedom. Employing the digital imagery capabilities of TARPS, VF-32 flew numerous reconnaissance missions over the former Republic of Yugoslavia during Operation Noble Eagle. Participating in liberation efforts, the Swordsmen released over 402,000 pounds of ordnance on targets in Northern Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Once again, VF-32 set a Tomcat benchmark being the first fighter squadron to release multiple JDAM. Having contributed significantly to the liberation of Iraq, the battle hardened Swordsmen returned to Oceana in May 2003. January 2003 marked another historic first for the Tomcat community. VF-32 became the first operational squadron to attempt the launch of six AIM-54 Phoenix missiles from one aircraft. A launch such as this had not been attempted since 1972. The Swordsmen succeeded, launching five of the six active radar missiles. VF-32 became the first Tomcat squadron to complete the Fleet Readiness Program Training Cycle following a two-month deployment to the Mediterranean Sea in June/July and Air Wing Fallon in September. During Summer Pulse '04, the VF-32 team completed COMPTUEX and took part in a major NATO exercise off the coast of Africa termed Majestic Eagle. During Air Wing Fallon, VF-32 dropped 44 tons of ordnance including nine GBU-31 Joint Direct-Attack Munitions and 22 Laser Guided Bombs (GBU 12 and 16), demonstrating the F-14's lethality in the strike arena and the precision of the LANTIRN targeting pod.

The Swordsmen of VF-32 continued their banner year of 2004 while deployed in the Arabian Gulf with CVW-3 aboard USS Truman. In late October, VF-32 and the Truman Battle Group participated in the Joint Maritime Course off the coast of Scotland in the North Sea. With nearly 3,800 hours flown that year, 2,000 of them at sea, the Gypsies set the standard among F-14 squadrons for combat readiness, weapon system development, exceptional maintenance and an impeccable safety record.

During their 2004-2005 deployment, VF-32 spent four months in the Northern Arabian Gulf in support of Iraqi Freedom, making it their last Tomcat cruise ever. They flew over 413 combat missions and dropped 21 tons of ordnance ensuring the first successful Democratic election in Iraq. The Swordsmen returned to homeport on April 18, 2005 where they continued to remain in a surge status.

From November to May 2005, the Swordsmen of Fighter Squadron Thirty-Two transitioned to the FA-18F Super Hornet and were re-designated Strike Fighter Squadron Thirty-Two (VFA-32).

In November 2007, the Swordsman left Oceana and embarked on the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) for a seven month deployment. The 2007-2008 deployment proved to be significant since the Gypsies employed the F/A-18F Super Hornet in combat for the first time in the squadron's history. In June 2008, the Swordsmen returned home to Oceana, completing five months of sustained combat operations, totaling 524 missions and 2,584.4 combat hours, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF), providing continuous CAS and tactical reconnaissance for Coalition ground forces throughout Iraq.

The Swordsmen kicked off 2009 by being formally recognized as the Battle Efficiency Award recipient by the Commander, Naval Air Force for the Fiscal Year 2008. Today, the Swordsmen are continuing to make history as CVW-3 and the USS Truman are participating in a pre-deployment work-up cycle for the 2010 cruise.

Since their inception, the Swordsmen have carried the fight to the enemy in seven consecutive decades. In every instance, they have responded with pride, professionalism and deadly accuracy. The Swordsmen have a proud tradition of service with honor, an unrivaled spirit and unmatched dedication. The Swordsmen will continue to meet all challenges head-on. Committed to excellence, we are proud to go where duty calls.

STRIKE FIGHTER SQUADRON THREE SEVEN
"BULLS"
Strike Fighter Squadron Three Seven was established as an A-7A squadron in July 1966. The Bulls became operational in December 1967, first deploying aboard the USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63) in 1969. VFA-37 has deployed 21 times on the decks of eight aircraft carriers during their 40-year history. The Bulls have carried out the light attack mission in the Indian Ocean, Vietnam, Iwakuni, Japan, the Persian Gulf, the Arabian Sea and have made one "Around-the World" cruise aboard the USS Carl Vinson (CV-70).

During the squadron's second tour to Vietnam, aboard USS Saratoga (CV 60), the Bulls arrived on Yankee Station in May 1972 and commenced nine consecutive months of combat operations, flying nearly 2,800 missions and dropping over 3,100 tons of ordnance.

In April 1973, the Bulls received their first A-7E, an advanced version of the A-7A. It incorporated improved navigation and weapons systems, state of the art avionics and greater aircraft performance. The Bulls made seven cruises with the A-7E during the latter part of the 1970s and early 1980s. During this time, the Bulls responded to several regional crises in the Mediterranean Sea and Indian Ocean.

In 1984, the Bulls deployed to Iwakuni, Japan to operate alongside the U.S. Marine Corps. During this deployment, the Bulls detached to Yechon, Korea, thus becoming the first Navy aircraft squadron to deploy in field conditions since World War II.

After returning from Japan, the Bulls made Three deployments aboard the USS Forrestal (CV 59) to the Mediterranean Sea and Indian Ocean. In 1989 the Bulls won the Safety "S," Atlantic Fleet Battle "E" and the Golden Tailhook Award (for achieving the highest overall landing grades within Carrier Air Wing Six).

In August 1990, the Bulls detached from Carrier Air Wing Six and joined Commander Light Attack Wing One. Following the invasion of Kuwait, five Bull jets transferred to VA-72 for a short-notice deployment in support of Operation Desert Shield. During the next Three months, the Bulls provided a cadre of fleet-ready A-7E pilots, aircraft and maintenance personnel to support the deployed light attack squadrons preparing for combat. On Oct. 31, 1990, Team Bull flew the last official sortie in the A-7E Corsair II. This event ended a 25-year association with the "Harley of the Fleet" during which over 115,000 flight hours and 25,000 arrestments were amassed. On Nov. 15, 1990, Attack Squadron Three Seven was officially re-designated Strike-Fighter Squadron Three Seven, receiving its first F/A-18 Hornet on Dec. 13, 1990. On Sept. 1, 1991, Team Bull, attached to Carrier Air Wing Three (CVW-3), embarked on the USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67).

From October 1992 to April 1993, the Bulls deployed to the Mediterranean Sea as part of the John F. Kennedy Battle Group. During this deployment, the Bulls participated in many exercises with our allies and were key participants in Operation Provide Comfort in northern Iraq and Operation Provide Promise near the former Yugoslavia.

Upon returning from the 1993 Mediterranean cruise, the Bulls began another turn-around cycle. Throughout the year, the squadron continued to refine its air-to-air and air-to-ground tactics in preparation for a six-month deployment aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) on Oct. 20, 1994. During the Mediterranean Sea and Arabian Gulf cruise, the Bulls flew missions over Iraq in support of Operation Southern Watch and over Bosnia in support of Operation Deny Flight. The Bulls also participated in major exercises with the Kuwaitis, Saudis, Israelis and other NATO allies.

In November 1996, the Bulls embarked onboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) with CVW-3. They flew in support of Operation Southern Watch in Iraq and Operation Deliberate Guard over Bosnia-Herzegovina. Team Bull also participated in major exercises throughout the Mediterranean Sea and the Arabian Gulf.

VFA-37 deployed again in November 1998 with CVW-3 aboard USS Enterprise (CVN-65), and proceeded directly to the Arabian Gulf. After four weeks of participating in Operation Southern Watch, the executive order was issued for Operation Desert Fox in Iraq. The Bulls performed superbly, flying 44 sorties and delivering 46 tons of ordnance in four nights of sustained combat operations. The hit assessment for VFA 37 was the best in the air wing and the operation was completed with no friendly losses.

Team Bull and the Enterprise Battle Group left the Arabian Gulf in January. During the next five months of deployment, VFA-37 flew missions over the former Yugoslavia in Operation Deliberate Force, and again over Iraq in Operation Southern Watch. The Raging Bulls relocated from NAS Cecil Field, Fla., to NAS Oceana, Virginia in July 1999. The next major deployment for the Bulls was the maiden voyage of the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) in 2000.

In December 2002, VFA-37 got underway for their second cruise aboard the Truman. On March 19, 2003, Team Bull joined its band of brothers spearheading combat operations in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). While flying from the Truman in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, the Bulls participated in the "shock and awe" campaign in Southern Iraq before shifting focus to assisting U.S. Forces in Northern Iraq.

By the end of a successful 30-day air campaign in OIF, the Bulls flew over 1,200 hours and 252 combat sorties over Northern Iraq. The squadron pilots delivered over 144 tons of ordnance and expended 9400 rounds of 20mm HEI ammunition. The squadron maintained a 100 percent combat sortie completion rate and an outstanding safety record. VFA-37 returned home to a heroes' homecoming on Memorial Day, 2003.

In October 2004, Team Bull and CVW-3 left Oceana and headed for the Northern Arabian Gulf onboard the Truman. On Nov. 21, 2004, the HST began combat operations in support of OIF. The air wing concluded combat operations on March 18, 2005. At the completion of VFA 37's campaign, the squadron had flown 430 combat sorties, logging over 2100 hours in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

2007 marked the 40th anniversary of the Ragin' Bulls. After completing several sustainment operations with Carrier Air Wing Eight the year prior, VFA-37 began work-ups with CVW-3 for another deployment. VFA-37 poised to lead from the front as it has during its storied 40 year history.

STRIKE FIGHTER
SQUADRON ONE ZERO FIVE
"GUNSLINGERS"
The Gunslingers of Strike Fighter Squadron One Zero Five are home ported at Naval Air Station, Oceana, Va. They have four Western Pacific and fourteen Mediterranean deployments to their credit, including four Indian Ocean assignments and a 1983 around-the-world deployment. The Gunslingers forward deployed to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan in 1984 as part of the Marine Corps Unit Deployment Program. The squadron has distinguished itself on numerous occasions in its relatively short history:

VFA-105 was originally commissioned on May 1, 1952 at NAS Cecil Field and was known as the Mad Dogs flying the venerable AD-1 Skyraider. The squadron was decommissioned in 1959. On Nov. 1, 1967, VA-105 was recommissioned at NAS Cecil Field, flying the new A-7A Corsair II. The Gunslingers embarked on their first deployment aboard USS Kittyhawk (CV-63) to Southeast Asia participating in combat operations in the Gulf of Tonkin from January to October 1969. Throughout the 1970s and 80s the squadron made deployments to the Mediterranean Sea and Indian Ocean in USS Saratoga (CV-60) and USS Forrestal (CV-59).

On Jan. 10, 1991, VA-105 was redesignated VFA-105 as the squadron transitioned from the A-7E to the FA-18C. The Gunslingers reported to CVW-3 aboard USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67) on Sept. 1, 1991 and made their first Hornet cruise from October 1992 to April 1993. VFA 105 deployed aboard USS Dwight D. E Eisenhower (CVN-69) to the Mediterranean and North Arabian Gulf from October 1994 to April 1995. The Gunslingers then embarked in USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) from November 1996 to May 1997, participating in Operation Deliberate Guard over the skies of Bosnia-Herzegovina and Operation Southern Watch in the Arabian Gulf and over Iraq. In November 1998 the squadron deployed in USS Enterprise (CVN 65), participating in Operation Desert Fox, an intense four-night combat operation over Iraq, as well as Operations Southern Watch and Deliberate Forge over Bosnia. Two months after returning home, the squadron changed homeports and began operations at NAS Oceana, Va. In November 2000, VFA-105 embarked in USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) on her maiden voyage in support of Operation Southern Watch.

The Gunslingers returned from their second deployment aboard USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) in May 2003 during which they served an integral role supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Special Operations Forces were outnumbered by a ratio of 40-to-one in Northern Iraq. Over a Three-week period, VFA-105 effectively flew more than 250 combat missions and dropped over 139 tons of ordnance including JDAM, JSOW, Laser-Guided Munitions, HARM and MK-80 series bombs. Their professionalism and accuracy was critical in supporting those ground forces, and ultimately, the liberation of Iraq. The Gunslingers' outstanding maintenance department set the standard for the Air Wing with a 100 percent sortie completion rate earning them the "CVW-3 Golden Wrench Award." The squadron also won the "CVW-3 Top Hook Award" for best overall landing performance.

Throughout their history, the Gunslingers have continually strived for excellence in all areas of carrier aviation. Their outstanding operational record clearly demonstrates that VFA-105 continues to be the premier example of a fully capable, combat-ready strike fighter squadron able to project power and American resolve during times of war or peace anywhere in the world.

CARRIER AIR WING SEVEN (CVW-7)
Carrier Air Wing Seven was commissioned on July 20, 1943 at Alameda Naval Air Station, California, as Carrier Air Group Eighteen (CAG-18). It was composed of VF-18 Fighting Eighteen, VF(N)-78 Fighting Seventy-eight, VB-18 Bombing Eighteen and VT-18 Torpedo Eighteen. With CDR William Ellis commanding, CAG-18 embarked USS Intrepid (CV-11) and commenced combat operations against the Japanese on Sept. 6, 1944 by striking the Palau Islands in preparation for amphibious landings there. For the next two months, CAG-18 and Intrepid raided extensively throughout the Western Pacific, striking targets throughout Micronesia and the Philippines. In October, the focus turned westward and CAG 18 attacked airfields in Okinawa and Formosa (Taiwan) to isolate the Philippines from Japanese air cover. Finally, on Oct. 18, 1944, CAG-18 and Intrepid began pounding concentrations of Japanese forces in the Philippines in preparation for General MacArthur's planned landings at Leyte Gulf. On the Oct. 24, as the Battle of Leyte Gulf raged, CAG-18 attacked the Japanese Navy's Center Force in the Sibuyan Sea, stopping an attempt to isolate MacArthur's landing force. On Oct. 28, CAG-18 participated in the destruction of the Japanese Navy's Northern Force in the Battle off Cape Engano as part of Admiral "Bull" Halsey's Task Force 38, assuring an American victory at Leyte and destroying the Japanese Navy's capability to wage offensive warfare. Through the remainder of October and November, CAG-18 and Intrepid continued striking targets in the Philippines to support American advances until Nov. 25, when a two-pronged kamikaze attack forced Intrepid into port for repairs. By the time CAG-18 was detached on Dec. 1, they lost 66 planes and 58 airmen but shot down 154 enemy planes and destroyed or damaged another 409 on the ground during raids. Further, they sunk 53 ships and damaged or sunk another 135.

In September 1945, the air group transferred to Naval Air Station Quonset Point, R.I. and on Nov. 16, 1946 was re-designated Attack Carrier Air Group Seven (CVG-7). In the summer 1952, CVG-7, under the command of CDR G. B. Brown, embarked USS Bonhomme Richard (CVA-31) and sailed to the eastern coast of Korea to support United Nations troops fighting the North Korean invasion of South Korea. CVG-7 conducted routine close air support and battlefield interdiction missions in support of ground troops. Further, on June 23 and 24, CVG-7 participated in a series of raids now known collectively as the Attack on the Sui-ho Dam, in which they penetrated deep into North Korean territory to strike dams, power plants and other electrical infrastructure. The attack left 90 percent of North Korea and 23 percent of Eastern China without electricity for several weeks. Throughout July and August, CVG-7 struck other infrastructure targets deep behind North Korean lines to ensure the lasting effect of the blackout. By the end of the deployment, CVG-7 conducted 11 raids in North Korean territory with no friendly losses.

After moving from Quonset Point to Naval Air Station, Oceana in 1958, the CVG-7 teamed up with USS Independence (CVA-62) and deployed as the first all jet air group. On Dec. 20, 1963, the Navy re-designated CVG-7 to Carrier Air Wing Seven (CVW-7). In 1965, CVW-7 spent 100 days in the South China Sea conducting strikes into North Vietnam from Yankee Station. CVW-7 was awarded the Navy Unit Commendation for its actions, which included the first successful air attacks on surface-to-air missile batteries as well as strikes deep into the heavily defended Hanoi-Haiphong industrial complex. All told, CVW-7 flew over 7,000 missions while on station. Over the next decade, CVW-7 made several deployments to the Mediterranean aboard Independence.

On March 1, 1978, CVW-7 was assigned to the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69). Between 1978 and 1990, CVW-7 made six deployments to the Mediterranean aboard "Ike." In April 1983, a CVW-7 aircraft conducted a 1000 nautical mile night, over-ocean bogey intercept- at the time the longest in aviation history. When Iraq invaded Kuwait during the 1990 deployment, Ike and CVW-7 responded immediately by steaming from the Mediterranean to the Red Sea. Once there, they became the first Atlantic Fleet air wing to participate in Operation Desert Shield, deterring Iraq from continuing its invasion into Saudi Arabia.

Through the 1990's, CVW-7 made five deployments, first aboard Ike then later with USS George Washington (CVN-73), USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74), and finally back with Ike to the Adriatic Sea and Persian Gulf in support of Operation Deny Flight and Operation Southern Watch. In 2002, CVW-7 deployed to the Indian Ocean with USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67). There, CVW-7 conducted strikes and close air support missions in Afghanistan during the outset of Operation Enduring Freedon. CVW-7 returned to the Middle East in 2004 aboard George Washington and again in 2006 aboard Ike to participate in OEF as well as Operation Iraqi Freedom, conducting several thousand missions in support of troops on the ground in Iraq and Afghanistan. In 2009 and again in 2010, CVW-7 deployed to the Indian Ocean to conduct combat operations in Afghanistan in support of OEF. CVW-7 is commanded by CAPT Roy "Trigger" Kelley and is composed of Strike Fighter Squadron 103 "Jolly Rogers," Strike Fighter Squadron 143 "Pukin' Dogs," Strike Fighter Squadron 83 "Rampagers," Strike Fighter Squadron 131 "Wildcats," Electronic Attack Squadron 140 "Patriots," Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 121 "Bluetails," and Helicopter Anit-Submarine Squadron 5 "Nightdippers."

STRIKE FIGHTER
SQUADRON EIGHT THREE
"RAMPAGERS"
Strike Fighter Squadron 83, originally Naval Reserve Fighter Squadron 916, was called into active duty at NAS Squantum, Mass., in April 1950. Shortly afterwards, VF-916 moved to NAS Oceana as part of Air Group Eight. As a fighter squadron, VF-916 flew the F-4U Corsair, the F-8F Bearcat, the F9F-5 Panther and the F-7U Cutlass from the decks of the USS Saipan, USS Midway and USS Coral Sea.

Later re-designated VA-83, the Rampagers made five deployments aboard the USS Forrestal from 1971 to 1982. The Rampagers distinguished themselves by providing support for the Cyprus crisis of 1974 and for ongoing peacekeeping operations in Lebanon, 1982.

In 1983, VA-83 began operations aboard the USS Saratoga. The highlight of the 1985-86 deployment was the Rampagers' participation in the Achille Lauro operation, ultimately resulting in the apprehension of four PLO terrorists.

The Rams left Cecil Field on June 5, 1987 for its twenty-second Mediterranean and final A-7 Corsair deployment. The squadron received twelve new F/A-18C Hornets upon its return on March 1, 1988 and was re-designated VFA-83. In two years, the Rampagers would have an opportunity to use their new Hornets in combat against the Iraqi war machine of Saddam Hussein.

In the summer of 1990, the squadron deployed to the Red Sea aboard the USS Saratoga in support of Operation Desert Shield and later Desert Storm. For 43 days, the Rams flew 427 long-range strike missions over Iraq and Kuwait and helped repel the invading Iraqi forces and aid in the liberation of Kuwait. The squadron was awarded the 1990 COMNAVAIRLANT Battle Efficiency "E" Pennant and the 1991 CNO Aviation Safety Award.

VFA-83 made two more deployments aboard the USS Saratoga in 1992 and 1994, followed by successive cruises with the USS Enterprise and USS Eisenhower in 1996 and 1998. In April 1999, VFA-83 moved to its current home of NAS Oceana. Within months of arriving in Oceana, the Rampagers were busy conducting training exercises in the northern areas of the Gulf of Mexico and laying out the foundation for the new "Strike Fighter Derby," an inter-service competition designed to hone the fighting skills of East Coast strike fighter squadrons and increase professional exchanges. On June 21, Carrier Air Wing 17 (CVW-17) and the Rampagers began their first deployment with the USS George Washington battle group.

CVW-17 immediately headed to the waters off of Bosnia-Herzegovina and Kosovo to help enforce the NATO and UN mandate in the war-torn region. Several weeks later, VFA-83 made the transit through the Suez Canal and around the Straits of Hormuz to begin flight operations in support of Operation Southern Watch. During OSW, two Rampagers pilots became the first CVW-17 aircrew to successfully deliver JDAM and Slammer ordnance in combat. Upon completion of operations in the Arabian Gulf, the USS George Washington steamed west back into the Mediterranean Sea in support of Exercise Destined Glory. FA-83 returned home from cruise shortly after being awarded the CVW-17 "Top Hook" award. The Rampagers would be back in action following the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

Immediately following the attacks on New York City and Washington D.C., VFA-83 deployed with CVW-17 in support of Operation Noble Eagle off the coast of New York. VFA 83 returned home shortly thereafter and began an accelerated IDTC in preparation for an early deployment in the new War on Terror. In the span of a couple months, VFA-83 completed TSTA I and II, SFARP, Air Wing Fallon and a combined COMPTUEX/ JTFEX off of Puerto Rico. After a short period home, CVW-17 and VFA-83 deployed aboard the USS George Washington and steamed east to the North Arabian Sea in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. After several months of flying missions in support of OEF, CVW-17 sailed into the familiar waters of the Arabian Gulf in support of Operation Southern Watch. Two months later, VFA-83 steamed into the Mediterranean in support of Exercise Med Shark and returned home shortly afterwards.

After completing another set of work-ups, the Rampagers deployed in June 2004 aboard the USS John F. Kennedy. Within a month, VFA 83 began conducting combat sorties in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The highlight of the cruise came in November when Operation Phantom Fury was launched against insurgents in the city of Fallujah, Iraq. VFA-83 flew multiple close-air support missions in support of Marines on the ground. The Rampagers completed 389 sorties in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and dropped over 27,000 lbs. of ordnance. VFA 83 returned home in December 2004.

With yet another set of work-ups completed, the Rampagers deployed in October 2006 aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, as part of CVW-7. While deployed, the Rams contributed tangibly to Coalition operations in Afghanistan, Iraq and Somalia, which consisted of 4,800 mishap-free flight hours and over 1,650 sorties. Of the deployment totals, 2,900 hours and 530 sorties were in direct support of combat operations, with 13,000 lbs. of ordnance dropped and 4,500 rounds expended from the Hornet's gun, all in direct support of ground troops.

The Rams returned home in May 2007, after an eight-month cruise. Still on a surge status, they participated in a two-week JTFEX in July, a flight deck certification for the USS George Washington in August and a two-week detachment in November to Tyndall AFB to work with the 43rd Fighter Squadron and their F/A-22 Raptors. The Rams remained on surge through December 2007, returning to Tyndall again in April 2008 for joint exercises with the F/A 22. In more recent activity, the Rampagers began their latest work up cycle beginning with SFARP in July 2008, followed by the Green Flag exercise in August at NAS Key West. With a September COMPUEX and November Air Wing Fallon exercises completed, the men and women of VFA-83 again deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom from in February 2008, returning home in July and winning

the overall "Top Hook" Award for CVW-7. VFA-83 Boasted 4,097 class "A" mishap free hours while maintaining a 98 percent sortie completion rate. Again, the Rampagers of VFA-83 were kept on a surge status in anticipation of an early 2009 deployment. Following completion of COMPTUEX in November 2008, the Rampagers deployed with CVW-7 aboard the USS Eisenhower on Jan. 2, 2010, once again to support coalition forces in Afghanistan. They stand poised and ready to support and defend our nation in the ongoing War on Terror and any future conflicts. Ram-on!

STRIKE FIGHTER SQUADRON ONE ZERO THREE
"JOLLY ROGERS"
On April 1, 1943, in Ready Room Three onboard USS Bunker Hill, on station a hundred miles off the coast of Okinawa—this day would mark the beginning of the invasion of Okinawa. Fighter Squadron Seventeen would participate in the invasion, providing air support in the area. VF-17's reputation in the Pacific Theater was well known, and the Japanese pilots feared the sight of VF-17's Skull-and-Crossbones-emblazoned F4U Corsairs.

Ensign Jack Ernie, a young fighter pilot in the squadron and his squadron mates, completed their preflight briefings and headed to the flight deck of USS Bunker Hill to man their F4U Corsairs. Jack and his fellow pilots had already shot down over 100 Japanese aircraft, and anxiously awaited the day's opportunity to add more kills to their record.

Two hours later, however, over the skies of Okinawa, Ensign Jack Ernie began losing engine oil. In an attempt to disengage from the fight with his crippled Corsair, Jack was attacked by two Japanese Zeroes. Without full power of his engine available, Jack was at a disadvantage. He fought valiantly, splashing one of the Zeroes before being overcome by the second. As his Corsair plummeted earthward he made two transmissions, "Skipper, I can't get out" followed by a short pause and then, "Remember me with the Jolly Rogers!"

For his actions that day, Ensign Ernie was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross. Jack Ernie's original squadron, VF-17, was eventually decommissioned, but years later when his remains were finally recovered, Fighter Squadron Eighty-four had been re-designated the Jolly Rogers. When the story of Ensign Jack Ernie was revealed to VF-84 by Jack's family, and upon their suggestion and consent, Jack's skull and femurs were encased in glass and presented to the squadron, thereby fulfilling Jack's last request of being remembered with the Jolly Rogers.

Although Ensign Ernie was a member of the original VF-17 Jolly Rogers, his legend remains intact with the current VFA-103 Jolly Rogers. As was a tradition in VF-84, Ensign Ernie's name is a permanent fixture on the VFA-103 officer's precedence list and social roster, and his glass-encased skull and femurs remain on display in the squadron Ready-Room and are present at all squadron events.

As illustrated, the Jolly Rogers are a squadron rich with history and marked achievement. Flying over nine different types of Fighter aircraft over the past 63 years, the Skull and Bones have become the most recognized and feared insignia all over the world. The Skull and Crossbones first flew in January 1943 on F4U Corsairs assigned to VF-17, the most lethal Navy fighter squadron of World War II. By the end of the war, the original Jolly Rogers had racked up 1,545 kills in the skies over the Pacific. In 1946, VF-17 was re-designated VF-5B and then again in 1948 to VF-61, as the Jolly Rogers transitioned from the F4U to the F8 Bearcat. VF-61 then transitioned to the Navy's first jet fighters, the F9 Panther, FJ3 Fury and finally the F3H Demon prior to the squadron's decommissioning in March 1959. Flying F-8 Crusaders at the time, the VF-84 Vagabonds were re-designated as the Jolly Rogers in June 1959 to preserve the tradition and history of "The Bones." Eventually the VF-84 Jolly Rogers transitioned from the F-8 Crusader to the F-4 Phantom and finally to the F-14A Tomcat in 1975.

A decade ago, the Navy halved the number of Tomcat squadrons by changing from two 10-plane squadrons per carrier air wing to one 10-plane plane squadron. Combined with Navy-wide downsizing, this necessitated the decommissioning of many Tomcat squadrons, including the famous Jolly Rogers of VF-84 in October 1995. In order to honor all Jolly Rogers and their achievements over four generations and four fighter squadrons, the Navy decided to retire the "Club and Cloverleaf" insignia of the VF-103 "Sluggers" and have Fighting 103 adopt the Jolly Roger insignia and their tactical call sign, Victory, on Oct. 1, 1995.

Before becoming the latest squadron to proudly bear the Jolly Roger title, the VF-103 Sluggers had been making a name for themselves as well over the years since their commissioning in 1952. Flying successively more complex and more capable aircraft, VF-103 had consistently proved ready and willing to accomplish any and all of the missions at hand. In times of war, the squadron flew countless sorties in the moonless skies over Vietnam and achieved the only night MiG kill of the entire conflict.

In August 1990, five days after Iraq invaded Kuwait, VF-103 deployed onboard USS Saratoga (CV-60), transited the Atlantic in record time and proceeded through the Suez Canal into the Red Sea for Operation Desert Shield. During this, the largest military buildup since Vietnam, VF-103 flew more sorties and logged more hours and more traps than any other F-14 squadron in history. On Jan. 16, 1991, Desert Shield became Desert Storm as combat operations against Iraq commenced. Over the deserts of Iraq, VF-103 served during MiG sweeps, strike and high value airborne asset (HVAA) escorts, and tactical reconnaissance missions during the short and decisive Desert Shield and Desert Storm campaigns. VF-103 was an integral part of the air campaign that rapidly neutralized Iraq's military and devastated the country's will to fight. Following the liberation of Kuwait and a cease-fire agreement, the squadron returned home from their nearly eight-month deployment and received the 1990 CNO Safety Award.

During the summer of 1996, VF-103 sent two of its F-14B Tomcats to NAS Roosevelt Roads, Puerto Rico, to conduct testing involving the release of inert GBU-16 Laser Guided Bombs using the newly acquired Laser Navigation and Targeting Infra Red at Night pod, or LANTIRN for short. After successfully acquiring, tracking and lasing assigned targets on the Vieques Island range, VF-103 became the first F-14 squadron to deliver precision-guided bombs. On June 27, 1996, VF-103 deployed with LANTIRN and Night Vision Goggles (NVGs) onboard USS Enterprise (CVN-65) marking the first ever Tomcat squadron deployment with such capabilities.

In 2000, Fighting 103 deployed with Carrier Airwing Seventeen onboard USS George Washington (CVN-73). The "Millennium Cruise 2000" first took the Jolly Rogers across the Atlantic, through the Adriatic Sea and the Suez Canal to the Arabian Gulf, where they spent Three months in support of Operation Southern Watch. Victory jets flew over 200 combat missions over Iraq, where the aircrew dropped a combined 12 Laser Guided Bombs. The USS George Washington was then ordered to the Mediterranean, where the Jolly Rogers flew missions over the Balkans in support of Operation Deliberate Forge/Joint Guardian. Following this extremely successful deployment, the Jolly

Rogers of VF-103 were presented the 2000 COMNAVAIRLANT Battle "E" in March 2001. Fighting 103 has subsequently been awarded the Adm. Joseph C. Clifton Award by COMNAVAIRLANT, once again recognized as the standard for tactical and operational excellence among all fighter squadrons. Additionally, VF-103 was named as the small command winner for the Secretary of Defense Phoenix award for outstanding maintenance programs, Department of Defense wide. A significant accomplishment, this marks the first time this award has ever been given to a Tomcat squadron.

The Jolly Rogers embarked on another six-month deployment to the Arabian Sea, Persian Gulf and Mediterranean Sea with Carrier Air Wing 17 aboard the USS George Washington in 2002. While underway, the Jolly Rogers flew combat sorties over Afghanistan continuously for two months in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Following these missions in Afghanistan, Fighting 103 took part in several weeks of combat operations in the Persian Gulf in support of Operation Southern Watch. This marked the first time in over a year that the Navy had a carrier battle group enforce the No-Fly Zone in southern Iraq.

The most recent Jolly Roger deployment was a combat cruise in 2004 onboard the USS John F. Kennedy in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. This was the twilight deployment for the Jolly Roger Tomcats, and although the F-14B jets were the oldest Fighters flying combat over Iraq, the success rate of the Jolly Rogers and their venerable Tomcats was unsurpassed. The maintenance department achieved an unprecedented 97.8 percent sortie completion rate allowing VF-103 aircrew to fly nearly 2,000 combat hours, drop 21 laser-guided bombs in defense of coalition troops, and conduct 24 TARPS missions providing armed-reconnaissance of terrorist positions and insurgent strongholds. The TARPS mission flown by the Jolly Rogers on Nov. 17, 2004 was the final time a Tomcat would ever fly a TARPS mission.

After returning home and sending their remaining F-14's to the "Boneyard" at Davis Monthans AFB in Arizona, the Jolly Rogers took yet another step in their storied history by redesignating to VFA-103 and joining the Strike Fighter community flying the newest Navy jets, the F/A-18F Super Hornets. The Jolly Rogers were the first Tomcat squadron to transition to the Super Hornet here on the east coast, the first to earn their Safe-for-Flight here at NAS Oceana, and the first squadron to begin flying with the Joint Helmet Mounted Cuing System (JHMCS) and AIM-9X combination, which gave the aircrew an increased lethality in the air-to-air dog-fight arena.

After completing an inter-deployment training cycle, the squadron deployed for the first time as an F/A-18F squadron in late 2006 with Carrier Air Wing Seven onboard USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69). During an eight-month deployment, the squadron conducted combat sorties in support of Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom, and joint operations in the Horn of Africa. In total, VFA-103 flew 2,500 sorties and 6,500 hours, precisely delivered 53 weapons, including one Laser Maverick missile, and expended 874 rounds of 20mm against enemy forces. This highly successful deployment added yet another chapter to the storied history of the Jolly Rogers and is a testament to the selfless dedication and consummate professionalism of its proud Sailors.

In recognition of the squadron's superior performance, the Jolly Rogers were awarded the 2006 Commander Naval Air Forces Atlantic Battle "E," the 2006 Chief of Naval Operations Safety "S," and the 2006/07 Commander, Strike Fighter Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet Maintenance Department of the Year award. The 'Vics' also demonstrated an unmatched fighter spirit culminating in their selection as the 2006/07 'Mutha' award winners, given annually to the squadron that best exemplifies true fighter spirit, esprit de corps, and the camaraderie that is the strength of our Strike Fighter community.

The Jolly Rogers of VFA-103 continue to exemplify the Naval Aviation tradition of excellence and professionalism. The squadron's lineage can claim two Chiefs of Naval Operations as former Commanding Officers—CDR Tom Hayward was a VF-103 CO in 1964, and CDR Jay Johnson became Victory One in 1981. As the Jolly Roger emblem still flies on the tail of the most capable and history-rich fighter squadron in all of Naval Aviation, the challenge continues to go out to any and all.

STRIKE FIGHTER SQUADRON ONE THREE ONE
"WILDCATS"
Strike Fighter Squadron One Three One (VFA-131), the Wildcats, was established at NAS Lemoore, Calif., on Oct. 2, 1983. The Wildcats received their first FA-18A Hornet in May 1984. In January 1985, the Wildcats moved to NAS Cecil Field, Fla, and became "Airlant's First and Finest" FA-18 squadron.

As a part of Carrier Air Wing Thirteen (CVW-13), the Wildcats deployed to the Mediterranean Sea in October 1985 aboard USS Coral Sea (CV-43) and participated in air strikes against Libya. In 1986, VFA-131 was awarded the Airlant Battle "E," the CNO Aviation Safety "S" (the first Airlant Hornet squadron to receive this award), the Silver Anchor for personnel retention excellence, and the Capt. Michael J. Estocin Award for the best FA-18 squadron in the U.S. Navy. The Wildcats completed their second Mediterranean deployment aboard USS Coral Sea (CV-43) in March 1988. In August 1988, VFA-131 embarked aboard USS Independence (CV-62) for a two-month transit via Cape Horn from Norfolk to San Diego. In October 1988, the squadron joined Carrier Air Wing Seven (CVW-7) and deployed to the Mediterranean Sea aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) in March 1990. In August 1990, Eisenhower and the Wildcats were among the first U.S. units to respond to the Iraq invasion of Kuwait as part of Operation Desert Shield.

In September 1990, the squadron transitioned to FA-18C Lot XIII Night Strike Hornets. One year later, after a rapid turnaround, the squadron again deployed aboard Eisenhower to the Red Sea and North Arabian Gulf in support of Operation Desert Storm. The deployment concluded with operations above the Arctic Circle in support of Exercise Teamwork 92.

In May 1994, the Wildcats were part of the maiden deployment of the Navy's newest nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, USS George Washington (CVN-73). The Wildcats flew sorties in support of Operation Deny Flight over Bosnia-Herzegovina and Operation Southern Watch over Southern Iraq. In October 1994, the Wildcats returned to the Arabian Gulf and participated in Operation Vigilant Warrior, in response to Iraqi aggression. In November 1994, VFA-131 returned to Cecil Field and again received the CNO Aviation Safety "S" and the Capt. Michael J. Estocin Awards. In April 1996 the Wildcats once again deployed aboard Washington to the Mediterranean, Adriatic and the Arabian Gulf in support of Operations Decisive Endeavor and Southern Watch.

In February 1998, the Wildcats deployed for the "Around the World," maiden deployment of USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74), again supporting Operation Southern Watch in Iraq. Upon return, in December 1998, the Wildcats relocated from NAS Cecil Field, Fla., to NAS Oceana in Virginia Beach, Va. In 1999 VFA-131 successfully integrated females into the squadron, and deployed in February 2000 to the Mediterranean, Adriatic and Arabian Gulf aboard Eisenhower in support of Operations Joint Guardian, Deliberate Forge, Southern Watch, Juniper Stallion and Indigo Anvil. Sept. 11, 2001 had the Wildcats underway aboard USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67). Within hours of the terrorist attacks, armed Wildcat Hornets were conducting air patrols over the nation's capitol and New York City from USS George Washington (CVN-73) in support of Operation Noble Eagle. In February 2002, the Wildcats deployed to the North Arabian Sea to take part in Operation Enduring Freedom aboard Kennedy, flying combat sorties over Afghanistan. The Wildcats were awarded the 2002 Airlant Battle "E," CNO Safety "S" and Captain Michael J. Estocin Awards.

During the Summer of 2003, VFA-131 executed a complete aircraft swap, upgrading to Lot XIX Hornets and were the first FA-18C squadron to receive a Link 16 capability (MIDS). From January to July 2004, VFA-131 deployed aboard USS George Washington (CVN-73) in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

On Oct. 3, 2006 the Wildcats deployed in support of Operation's Iraqi and Enduring Freedom aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69). The Wildcats closed out 2006 having flown 189 combat missions and over 1,100 hours in support of the world's war on terrorism.

STRIKE FIGHTER SQUADRON ONE FOUR THREE
"PUKIN' DOGS"
The World Famous Pukin' Dogs were originally commissioned in 1949 as VF-871, a reserve squadron. Based out of NAS Alameda, California, the squadron was first called to active duty on July 20, 1950. Once on active duty, they took the F4U-4 Corsair to war in Korea from the decks of the USS Princeton (CV-37) in early 1951, and from the decks of the USS Essex (CVA-9) in 1952. In the early 1950's, the squadron patch was redesigned with a panther with wings, and when the patch was turned into a papier mache statue, it didn't turn out quite as expected. A spouse at the Officers' Club commented that it looked like a dog which had taken ill, and the "Pukin' Dogs" had a name!

Over the next eleven years the squadron changed aircraft and designations twice: as VF-123 flying the F9F-2 Panther and F9F-8 Cougar, and then as VF-53, flying the F3H-2 Demon. Finally, on June 20, 1962, the squadron was redesignated VF-143 as they transitioned to the F4H-1 Phantom II (later redesignated the F-4B). The Pukin' Dogs first cruise as VF-143 was a WESTPAC aboard the USS Constellation (CV-64) in February 1963. Operating as part of Carrier Air Wing 14 the squadron responded to the Gulf of Tonkin incident by flying in the Pierce Arrow attacks on North Vietnamese naval facilities on Aug. 5, 1964.

In the succeeding years, the Pukin' Dogs transitioned to the F-4J and completed seven combat deployments to Vietnam. It was during one of those deployments in 1967 that two Dogs, LTJG Robert P. Hickey JR and his RIO, LTJG Jeremy G. Morris, engaged and successfully destroyed a Vietnamese MIG 21 with an AIM 7 Sparrow air to air missile, making them the Pukin' Dogs first official MIG killers. LT J.B. Souder later also was credited with the kill. On the same deployment, CDR Bill Lawrence and LTjg Jim Bailey were shot down and spent over 5 years as POWs. Lawrence later became a Vice Admiral and Superintendent of the Naval Academy.

On April 1, 1975, after completion of F-14A Tomcat transition training, the Pukin' Dogs permanently moved to their present home at NAS Oceana, VA As part of CVW-6, VF-143 made its first F-14 carrier deployment aboard USS America (CV-66) from April 15 to Oct. 25, 1976. During this Mediterranean deployment, the squadron participated in "Operation Fluid Drive," providing CAP for the evacuation of American citizens from Beirut in 1976. In the following years the Pukin' Dogs participated in a South Atlantic cruise (June 10 to July 19, 1977) followed shortly thereafter by a Mediterranean cruise (Sept. 29, 1977 to April 25, 1978).

In the fall of 1978, VF-143 joined USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) and Carrier Air Wing Seven (CVW-7). In 1979 they made Ike's first major deployment to the Mediterranean Sea from Jan. 16 to July 13. VF-143 and the Ike next spent 152 days continuously at sea during their 1980 cruise. The squadron then made a brief NORLANT cruise, between Aug. 17 and Oct. 7, 1980, and participated in NATO's Exercise Ocean Adventure. During their 1982 Mediterranean deployment, the Pukin' Dogs, with Three Tactical Air Reconnaissance Pod Systems (TARPS) equipped aircraft, once again conducted CAP missions in support of the evacuation of American citizens from war-torn Beirut.

During their 1983 Mediterranean deployment, VF-143 flew 45 combat TARPS missions, providing the Multinational Peacekeeping Forces in Lebanon with intelligence of enemy troop movements and artillery positions in the mountains outside of Beirut. VF-143 and the Ike returned to the MED on Oct. 11, 1984, where they again found themselves involved in a tense Lebanon situation. After a lengthy break from sea operations, VF-143 returned to the Ike for a MED cruise from Feb. 29 to Aug. 29, 1988. Shortly following this cruise, in 1989 the Dogs made the transition to the F-14B Tomcat.

1990 was a successful year for the Pukin' Dogs as they won the Strike Fighter Air Readiness Program (SFARP) trophy for the second consecutive year while achieving the highest score in SFARP history. VF-143 also won the Tactical Reconnaissance (TACRECCE) trophy for excellence in TARPS employment. The squadron was also nominated for the Navy's 1990 Arleigh Burke Award and the Department of Defense Phoenix Award for aviation maintenance. The successes of 1990 continued into early 1991 as VF-143 was awarded COMNAVAIRLANT's Battle "E" as the Atlantic Fleet's finest fighter squadron. Further accolades came as the Pukin' Dogs were awarded the Chief of Naval Operations Rear Admiral Joseph C. Clifton Award which designated VF-143 the Navy's finest fighter squadron.

During an air wing detachment to NAS Fallon, Nev. in May 1991, the Dogs made history by becoming the first fleet Tomcat squadron to drop live air-to-ground ordnance. In September 1991, the squadron deployed to the Arabian Gulf where new standards were set in joint operations between Navy, Air Force and numerous coalition air forces. The Pukin' Dogs returned to the Arabian Gulf in October 1991. The later stages of the cruise took them into the North Atlantic and Norwegian Sea where NATO forces and the Ike Battle Group joined up above the Arctic Circle for cold weather operations during "Teamwork '92." In August 1992, the Pukin' Dogs and the rest of Carrier Air Wing Seven were reassigned to the USS George Washington (CVN-73), the Navy's newest aircraft carrier. VF-143 deployed on the GW on her maiden "shakedown" cruise, and then for her first Mediterranean deployment in May 1994 where she took part in the 50th anniversary commemoration of the D-Day invasion and Operation Deny Flight. This cruise was highlighted by the stellar performance of the squadron in both Bosnia-Herzegovina and the Arabian Gulf, particularly for the crucial TARPS imagery it provided.

In January 1996, the World Famous Pukin' Dogs completed their turnaround training cycle and departed on their second cruise in fifteen months. The preparation quickly paid off as the Dogs found themselves flying over Bosnia in support of Operation Decisive Endeavor and the Arabian Gulf in support of Operation Southern Watch. Carrier Air Wing Seven relied heavily on the Pukin' Dogs to provide aircraft and trained crews for TARPS, Forward Air Control (Airborne), air superiority, and air-to-ground missions. The Pukin' Dogs returned to Oceana in July 1996, having flown over 1,400 missions. These extraordinary successes were a tribute to the professionalism and pride of all Pukin' Dogs personnel, who were awarded COMNAVAIRLANT's Battle "E" Award for 1996.

February 1998 found the Pukin' Dogs making another maiden cruise, this time aboard the USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74). Over 131 days were spent in the Arabian Gulf in support of Operation Southern Watch. VF-143 played key roles using the LANTIRN Pod, night vision goggles, and digital TARPS. The excellence of VF-143 on this cruise was recognized by COMNAVAIRLANT again selecting the Pukin' Dogs for the Battle "E" award. In addition to the Battle "E," VF-143 was awarded the 1998 Safety "S" award.

Twenty years after their first cruise aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69), VF-143 once again boarded the Ike and headed for the waters of the Mediterranean Sea and Persian Gulf in 2000. VF-143 protected the skies over Bosnia-Herzegovina under Operation Joint Forge and enforced the Iraqi no-fly zones by participating in Operation Southern Watch. In both theaters of operations, the Dogs maintained air superiority and displayed unparalleled success in the Tactical Reconnaissance mission. The highlight of this cruise was the successful delivery of laser-guided munitions in Operation Southern Watch.

In February 2002, the Pukin' Dogs cruised aboard the USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67) in support of Operation Enduring Freedon. This was a brand new type of conflict, and once again the Tomcat proved to be adaptable. With an upgraded LANTIRN and TARPS capability combined with the ability to fly five hour missions, VF-143 jets proved invaluable as RECON and Close Air Support (CAS) assets. While flying over 1,300 sorties, VF-143 achieved a sortie completion rate of 98.2 percent, while successfully completing 99.9 percent of OEF sorties. Returning home in late August 2002 VF-143 took a well deserved break and earned the MUTHA trophy, an award given for their outstanding professionalism and fighter spirit both on and off the flight line.

The squadron's last Tomcat deployment occurred in 2004 aboard the USS George Washington in support of Iraqi Freedom, during which time the squadron participated in strikes over Fallujah. Following this historic cruise, the squadron spent six months in Lemoore, Calif. transitioning to the single-seat FA-18E Super Hornet and upon completion was subsequently re-designated VFA-143. In October 2006, VFA-143 made its first successful deployment as an FA-18 Super Hornet squadron onboard the USS Eisenhower in support of Operation Enduring Freedon, Operation Iraqi Freedom and the Global War on Terror. In February 2009 the Dogs were back at sea in support of Operation Enduring Freedon. During this five and half month cruise the Pukin' Dogs engaged enemy positions with laser and GPS guided bombs and the 20mm cannon throughout Afghanistan; providing on-call support to the U.S. and coalition ground troops. Returning home in the summer of 2009, the Dogs quickly entered a turnaround cycle in preparation for their upcoming 2010 deployment. On Jan. 2, 2010 VFA-143 embarked aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) for their second deployment in less than a year once again support of Operation Enduring Freedon.

CARRIER AIR WING EIGHT (CVW-8)
The mission of Carrier Air Wing Eight (CVW-8) is to conduct offensive air operations against both land and sea targets, and provide for Carrier Battle Group (CVBG) defense and sustained air operations in support of other forces as directed. Embarked in USS George H W Bush (CVN-77), CVW-8 employs a mix of sophisticated aircraft capable of air warfare, strike warfare, antisubmarine warfare and electronic warfare.

The Air Wing consists of eight squadrons. The strike/fighter role is fulfilled by Strike Fighter Squadrons Three One and Two One Three, VFA-31 with FA-18E and VFA-213 with the FA 18F "Super Hornet" and Strike Fighter Squadrons Fifteen and Eight Seven, VFA-15/VFA-87 flying the FA-18C and FA-18A+ "Hornet," respectively. Airborne early warning and airborne command and control is the responsibility of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron One Two Four (VAW-124) with the multi-mission E-2C "Hawkeye." The complex, dynamic realm of antisubmarine warfare is the domain of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Nine (HSC-9) and Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron Seven Zero (HSM-70) flying the SH-60S and MH-60R "Seahawk" helicopters, respectively. Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron One Four One (VAQ-141) flys the new Boeing EA-18G "Growler," providing electronic attack and electronic surveillance to enhance the Navy's capabilities and survivability in today's electronically oriented combat environment.

CVW-8 first operated on June 1, 1943 from Naval Air Station Norfolk, Virginia and was assigned to USS Intrepid (CV-11). Since then, CVW-8 has been decommissioned and reinstated twice, first in 1945 following World War II and then again in 1949. Recommissioned in April 1951, CVW-8 has been operational since that date.

Since World War II, CVW-8 has been assigned to the Atlantic Fleet making numerous deployments with the Second and Sixth Fleets, as well as Three deployments with First and Seventh Fleets. The Air Wing has been embarked on: USS Intrepid (CV-11), USS Bunker Hill (CV-17), USS Tarawa (CVA-40), USS Coral Sea (CVA-43), USS Lake Champlain (CVA- 39), USS Forrestal (CVA-59), USS Shangri-La (CVA-38), USS RANGER (CV-61), USS America (CV- 66), USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70), USS Nimitz (CVN-68), USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72), USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71), USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67) and USS Enterprise (CVN-65).

During World War II, CVW-8 distinguished itself in combat in the Pacific Fleet, winning five Battle Stars and the Presidential Unit Citation for heroic combat action while embarked on USS Bunker Hill (CV-17). CVW-8 was the first Carrier Air Wing composed of reserve squadrons to transition from propeller driven aircraft to jets. Jet transition was completed in 1951. In 1959, CVW-8 aircraft provided the U.S. Navy aerial demonstration to celebrate the opening of the Saint Lawrence Seaway. While deployed in 1960-1961, the Air Wing accumulating over 49,000 flight hours and 20,000 carrier arrested landings without an accident. These impressive statistics marked the beginning of CVW-8's return to the Pacific Fleet. In 1970, while embarked on USS Shangri-La (CV-39), the Air Wing won the Meritorious Unit Commendation for outstanding combat operations in Southeast Asia while attached to Task Force 77.

Following a Mediterranean Cruise in 1971 aboard USS America (CV-66), CVW-8 returned to the Western Pacific for combat operations from June 1972 to March 1973. After extended deployed Mediterranean operations with USS America (CV-66) in January 1974, CVW-8 was selected to embark in USS Nimitz (CVN-68) for her maiden deployment to Northern Europe in June 1975.

In June 1976, CVW-8 embarked again on USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Following celebrations of the United States Bicentennial in Norfolk, Virginia, the Nimitz/CVW-8 Team completed a deployment to the Mediterranean. In mid- 1977 CVW-8 was back on USS Nimitz (CVN-68) for Western Atlantic and Caribbean operations followed by the second Nimitz/CVW-8 Mediterranean deployment.

One year later CVW-8 re-embarked on USS Nimitz (CVN-68) for Caribbean operations followed by a third Nimitz/CVW-8 Mediterranean deployment in October 1979. In response to the Iranian hostage crisis and the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, the Nimitz/CVW-8 Team left Naples, Italy in January 1980 and sailed around the Cape of Good Hope into the Indian Ocean. Established at "Gonzo Station," the Nimitz/CVW-8 team supported the hostage rescue attempt while remaining at-sea for more than 140 consecutive days. Returning to the United States in May 1980, CVW-8 embarked once again aboard USS Nimitz (CVN-68) for the North Atlantic NATO exercise "Teamwork 80" from August to November 1980.

CVW-8 again embarked in USS Nimitz (CVN-68) for Caribbean operations in April 1981, followed by another Sixth Fleet Mediterranean deployment. It was during this deployment that two CVW-8 F-14A's from Fighter Squadron Forty-One engaged and destroyed two Libyan SU-22 aircraft following an unprovoked Libyan air-to-air missile engagement over the international waters of the Gulf of Sidra.

Returning to Norfolk, Virginia, CVW-8 commenced plans to embark on the Navy's newest Nimitz class carrier, USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) for her maiden voyage to the Caribbean in March 1982. CVW-8 sustained its tradition of excellence while establishing benchmarks "Shakedown" sortie efficiency and mission performance.

In June 1982, CVW-8 squadrons returned to USS Nimitz (CVN-68) for Carrier Refresher Training followed by Caribbean operations. From November 1982 to May 1983, the Nimitz/CVW-8 Team again deployed with the Sixth Fleet for extended Mediterranean operations including support for the multi-national force off Beirut, Lebanon.

CVW-8 participated in numerous training evolutions from May 1983 to October 1985 during Nimitz's extended overhaul. In March 1985, CVW-8 deployed to the Mediterranean and participated in several exercises including Distant Hammer, Poop Deck and Bright Star. CVW-8 was on station off the coast of Beirut, Lebanon for 69 days during the TWA hijacking. The prompt response and immediate preparation for contingency strikes coerced the Iranian backed terrorists into releasing hostages after 17 days of captivity. CVW-8 squadrons returned to their respective bases in October following the seven month deployment.

In 1986, CVW-8 became the first East Coast Air Wing to transition under the Senior Air Wing Commander "Super CAG" concept. On Aug. 15, CVW-8 set sail on a deployment to the North Atlantic Ocean for Battle Group Training and NATO exercise. This two-month deployment took Nimitz and CVW-8 above the Arctic Circle and into Vestfjord, Norway, where CVW-8 participated in NATO Exercise Northern Wedding and Northern Engagement.

On Dec. 30, 1986, CVW-8 and USS Nimitz (CVN-68) set sail for the Mediterranean Sea for what was to be their last deployment as a unit. At the end of this deployment the USS Nimitz (CVN-68) sailed around the tip of South America and arrived at San Diego, California in June 1987 where CVW-8 and squadrons bid a fond farewell to Nimitz before returning to their respective homeports.

In August 1988, CVW-8 embarked on USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) for Teamwork 88, the largest multi-national exercise of the decade, cruising to the North Atlantic with calls in Vestfjord, Norway and Wilhelmshaven, West Germany.

December 1988 saw CVW-8 embarked on CVN-71 for yet another Mediterranean deployment, during which it participated in 10 NATO exercises including Dragon Hammer, National Week and Juniper Stallion. CVW-8 distinguished itself by flying over 22,000 mishap free hours and generating over 10,000 sorties during the deployment.

With the Aug. 2, 1990 invasion of Kuwait by Iraqi armor and infantry forces, CVW-8 squadrons rapidly prepared for possible combat operations. In four short months, intense training through weekly practice strikes, and the successful completion of a completely "rescripted" and never before attempted "FLEETEX" placed the Theodore Roosevelt/CVW-8 team at the forefront of tactical carrier aviation. On December 28, CVW-8 again embarked on Theodore Roosevelt as they proceeded to join five other U.S. Carrier Battle Groups, operating under Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command. The gathering of naval forces for Operation Desert Storm was the largest display of sea power since World War II.

Returning from deployment on June 28, 1991, CVW-8 enjoyed a brief stand down prior to commencing a lengthy 18 month turnaround. CVW-8 completed 1991 by providing opposition forces based in Puerto Rico for other Carrier/Air Wing exercises. In July 1992, CVW-8 was the first Air Wing to receive a Marine Corps FA 18C squadron. Marine Fighter Attack Squadron Three One Two (VMFA-312 "Checkerboards") started carrier qualifications in June 1992 and July 1992 and joined CVW-8 on Aug. 1, 1992. In December 1992, the USS Theodore Roosevelt/CVW-8 team embarked for the very first time in aviation history as a Special Marine Air/Ground Task Force (SPMAGTF).

Deployed in March 1993, CVW-8 participated in Operation Provide Promise and Deny Flight in support of NATO sanctions in Bosnia-Herzegovina. In June 1993, CVW-8 passed through the Suez Canal for Red Sea duty in support of Operations Southern Watch. CVW-8 returned to the Adriatic Sea in July to continue NATO operational tasking until returning to Norfolk, Va. in September 1993.

CVW-8 embarked on USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) in April 1994 and again in May 1994 to commence Air Wing carrier qualifications. CVW-8 deployed under the command of Commander, USS Theodore Roosevelt Battle Group (COMTRBATGRU) as a unit of Joint Task Group 95-2 in March 1995. After refresher carrier qualifications, USS Theodore Roosevelt/CVW-8 crossed the Atlantic Ocean enroute to the Mediterranean Sea. CVW-8 operated in the Eastern Mediterranean, North Red Sea, Arabian Gulf and Adriatic Sea. CVW-8 responded to threats from Iraq by conducting joint operations with the Royal Jordanian Air Force. CVW-8 enforced No-Fly Zones over Bosnia-Herzegovina as part of Operation Deny Flight. On Aug. 29, 1995, CVW-8 commenced air-to-ground offensive operations in Bosnia-Herzegovina. Operation Deliberate Force included the first every Navy use of the GBU-24 2,000 pound laser-guided penetrator bomb and the first combat use of F-14s to deliver air-to-ground ordnance. Sept. 22, 1995 brought the end of a successful deployment, combat operations and the USS Theodore Roosevelt/CVW-8 team.

On Nov. 1, 1995, CVW-8 was reassigned under the operational control of Commander, USS John F. Kennedy Carrier Group Two (COMJFKBATGRU), forming the team of USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67) and Carrier Air Wing Eight. In February 1996, CVW-8 embarked on USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74) for a Joint Fleet Exercise, followed by deployed operations on board USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67) in the North Atlantic and visits to Dublin, Ireland and Portsmouth, England.

In April 1997, CVW-8 embarked on USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67) for JTG 97-2 Mediterranean/Persian Gulf Deployment. During the deployment, CVW-8 participated in many exercises/detachments including Infinite Acclaim, Beacon Flash and INVITEX. During INVITEX the Air Wing completed over 350 sorties including 203 sorties in one day in conjunction with surge operations. This deployment included continuous operations over Bosnia in support of Operation Deliberate Guard and over Iraq in Operation Southern Watch. The JTG 97-2 deployment was completed on Oct. 28, 1997. On Jan. 1, 1998, CVW-8 was once again reassigned under the operational control of Commander, Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Group Eight (COMTRBATGRU). After the conclusion of the Weapons Detachment at Naval Air Station Fallon, Nevada in October 1998, VQ-6 detachments were no longer assigned as part of the Theodore Roosevelt Battle Group.

In January 1999, CVW-8 completed a successful JTFEX prior to their deployment in USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71). Upon deployment, the Air Wing carrier qualified in Three days and began a high speed transit to the Sixth Fleet AOR to participate in Operation Allied Force. Upon arrival the Air Wing executed strikes the first night on station. The Air Wing participated in 55 days of consecutive combat operations flying over 4,300 sorties, 10,000 flight hours and dropping over 800 tons of ordinance. The Air Wing broke new tactical ground with cooperative targeting between the F-14 using LANTIRN and the FA-18 delivering Laser Maverick and employment for Forward Air Controllers Airborne (FAC-A) in a high threat environment. CVW-8 was also the first Air Wing to employ JSOW the Sixth Fleet AOR. Leaving Sixth Fleet, the Battle Group transited the Suez Canal and proceeded to the Arabian Gulf to support Operation Southern Watch. In support of United Nations sanctions, the Air Wing contributed more than 2,600 sorties in support of combat operations over Iraq. The Air Wing returned from deployment on September 22 and after a brief stand down began its Inter-Deployment Training Cycle.

On Nov. 1, the Air Wing was reassigned under the operational control of Commander, Enterprise Battle Group (COMCRUDESGRU Twelve). In 2000, CVW-8 executed its Inter-deployment Training Cycle, in preparation for the 2001 deployment. Operations included Flight Deck Certification, Orange Air, Independent Steaming exercise, TSTA II/III/FEP, and Air Wing Integration Training.

In 2001, CVW-8 completed a six and one half month deployment culminating in the initial strikes of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF). JTG 01-2 began with detachments in Tunisia, Corsica and Israel, as well as half-dozen port-visits throughout the Mediterranean. In June, a portion of the Battle Group sailed north of Scotland to participate in the Joint Maritime Course (JMC), a multinational training exercise. The first Three months of deployment brought the Battle Group together as a team, while delivering over 195,000 lbs. of NCEA. Starting in early July, the Air Wing took the reigns of Operation Southern Watch from CVW-2. Here the Air Wing refined its tactics using small self-escort packages on Time Sensitive Strikes. Over a six-week period, the Air Wing released over 29,000 lbs of ordnance against a variety of Iraqi targets. The USS Enterprise and CVW-8 were the first in theater after the terrorist events of Sept. 11, 2001. The lessons and coordination honed during OSW proved directly applicable to the Operation Enduring Freedon environment. During 16 days of combat operations, CVW-8 flew 680 sorties and delivered over 770,000 lbs. of precision guided munitions.

On Feb. 19, 2002, the Air Wing was reassigned to Commander, Roosevelt Battle Group (COMCRUDESGRU Eight). In July 2002 CVW-8 began accelerated work-up operations leading to a combat deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In October 2002 CVW-8 integrated VFA-201, the first Reserve Squadron to be activated in more than 50 years. Deploying in January 2002 for COMPTUEX on USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71), the Theodore Roosevelt Strike Group was deployed to the Mediterranean Sea to support operations in Operation Iraqi Freedom. In combat operations from March to April 2003, CVW-8 completed over 1,002 combat sorties, flying over 5,000 hours (75 percent of which were at night) and delivering 1,000,000 lbs. of precision-guided weapons on target. Returning to NAS Oceana in May 2003, CVW-8 was chosen as the test platform for the CNO's Fleet Response Plan initiative. Deploying in September 2003 with the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71), CVW-8 maintained an exceptional COMPTUEX level in all areas, and completed the at-sea period with an impressive 99 percent sortie completion rate and a grade of B-1 in all strike metrics.

In March 2004, CVW-8 began workups and on Sept. 1, 2005, CVW-8 embarked again on USS Theodore Roosevelt for an extended deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Maritime Security Operations in the Arabian Gulf. The Air Wing safely executed 16,000 sorties and 38,980 flight hours, achieved an unprecedented 97.3 percent sortie completion rate, and expended over 61,000 lbs. of ordnance during this deployment. In response to time-sensitive targeting and operational requirements, the Air Wing provided forward deployed support from Al Asad Air Base, Iraq and Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait to coalition ground forces. The superior efforts of the CVW-8 and USS Theodore Roosevelt team were recognized by award of the "JIG DOG" Ramage Award for the best performance by an integrated unit, and the Admiral James H. Flatley Award for Safety Excellence. This was the last deployment of the F-14 "Tomcat" as Fighter Squadrons Three One (VF-31) and Two One Three (VF-213), the Navy's final two F-14 squadrons, began transitioning to the FA-18E/F "Super Hornet" shortly after their return.

The beginning of 2008 saw CVW-8 return to its workup schedule as they spent the better part of the year participating in Air to Air Fallon, TSTA, COMPTUEX, Air Wing Fallon, and JTFEX before deploying in the Fall of 2008. On Sept., 8 2008, CVW-8 and the USS Theodore Roosevelt deployed, beginning a seven and one half month deployment, to assist in the global war terror in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. While in transit to relieve CVW 14, CVW-8 made a brief stop in Cape Town, South Africa before arriving in the North Arabian Sea in October. While on station, the Air Wing flew over 3,100 sorties delivering 19, 500 lbs. of ordinance in support of troops on the ground in Afghanistan.

In early April 2009, the USS Theodore Roosevelt/CVW-8 team returned to their homeport of Norfolk, Va., where they stand ready to answer the call to serve.

STRIKE FIGHTER
SQUADRON FIFTEEN
"VALIONS"
Strike Fighter Squadron Fifteen was originally established as Torpedo Squadron Four (VT-4) on Jan. 10, 1942, just one month after the attack on Pearl Harbor. In the 68 years since that time, the Valions have had four different designations and flown six different aircraft. Valion pilots and crew have operated from the decks of fifteen different aircraft carriers and made 35 major deployments to all reaches of the globe. Regardless of squadron designator, platform or location the Valions have always upheld the highest standards of Naval Aviation. They are ten-time winners of the COMNAVAIRLANT "E" for Battle Efficiency: 1953, 1961, 1962, 1978, 1980, 1983, 1988, 1991, 1999 and 2001; and the Estocin Award winner in 1999, given to the finest strike fighter squadron in the Navy.

Torpedo Squadron Four (VT-4) was established Jan. 10, 1942 aboard the USS Ranger (CV-4) at Grassy Bay, Bermuda. VT-4 began flying the TBD Devastator and later the TBM Avenger out of their homeport of NAS Quonset Point, R.I., protecting the sea-lanes between Bermuda and Newfoundland. They were aboard the USS Ranger in August 1943 when it escorted British Prime Minister Winston Churchill and HMS Queen Mary to the Quebec Conference, where the Allies discussed plans for the invasions of Italy and France.

In the closing months of World War II, VT-4 moved to San Diego, Calif. and was re-designated VA-2A. In 1948, the squadron's designation was changed to Attack Squadron Fifteen (VA-15) under a new designation system established by the Navy Department. One year later, in March 1949, VA-15 moved to NAS Cecil Field, Fla., and transitioned to the AD-4 Skyraider.

VA-15 transitioned to the A-4 Skyhawk in 1965. One year later, in April 1966, VA-15 left for Southeast Asia on-board the USS Intrepid (CV-11). While on station in the Gulf of Tonkin the Valions flew 2,627 sorties and over 4,777 hours in support of operations over North Vietnam. VA-15 was decommissioned June 1, 1969 and returned the next day when the Valions merged with Attack Squadron 67. The combined unit was re-designated Attack Squadron 15, flying the A-7E Corsair II. The Valions were on station in the Arabian Gulf aboard the USS Independence (CV-62) in November 1980 when the American embassy hostages were released from Iran.

VA-15 transitioned to the F/A-18 Hornet in late 1986, and were re-designated Strike Fighter Squadron Fifteen (VFA-15). The Valions accepted their first F/A-18 Hornet in January 1987 and joined Carrier Air Wing Eight (CVW-8).

In the early morning of Jan. 19, 1991, VFA-15 flew some of the first sorties in support of Operation Desert Storm. The Valions flew strike missions over the skies of Iraq from the first night until the suspension of hostilities on Feb. 28, 1991. One year later, VFA-15 transitioned to the F/A-18C Night Attack Hornet and began to develop innovative tactics employing the new Night Vision Goggle (NVG) compatible cockpit and targeting pod. The Valions continued their success in combat in the spring 1999 from the flight deck of the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71), where VFA-15 flew over 300 combat sorties in support Operation Allied Force. The cruise continued in the Northern Arabian Gulf (NAG) in support of Operation Southern Watch, and upon their return, the Valions relocated to NAS Oceana.

Two years later, the Valions were once again in the NAG patrolling the skies of southern Iraq, this time on-board the USS Enterprise (CVN-65). On several occasions Valion pilots answered the call to put bombs on target. As the carrier steamed home, the crew of the Enterprise watched as terrorists attacked America on Sept 11, 2001. The Valions and the Carrier Air Wing Eight/Enterprise team immediately turned around and took up residence in the Northern Indian Ocean. On Oct. 7, 2001, VFA-15 was once again at the tip of the spear, flying missions into Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF). In just four weeks, VFA-15 flew 185 sorties and 795 hours, releasing 232,000 pounds of Laser-Guided Bombs (LGB), Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAM) and Maverick Air-to-Ground Missiles.

In 2002, once again our Nation called and VFA-15 stood at the ready. After a compressed training cycle, VFA-15 and CVW-8 departed on-board the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) to the Mediterranean. From March 19, 2003 to April 15, 2003, VFA-15 delivered over 245,000 pounds of ordnance against Iraqi military facilities, air defense sites and terrorist camps in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF).

In September 2005, the Valions, along with the rest of the Battle Group (CSG-2), headed east across the Atlantic Ocean. In early October, CSG-2 took up residence in the NAG and immediately began flight operations in support of Multi-National Forces (MNF) in Iraq. Over the ensuing four months the Valions provided critical support to the MNF from Basra to Mosul, and Al Qaim to Baghdad. The Valions lead CAG-8 with over 1500 sorties and 5,000 flight hours.

In early 2006, the TR left the NAG, transited the Straits of Hormuz, searched for pirates off the Horn of Africa and finally transited the Suez bringing VFA-15 and CVW-8 back to NAS Oceana.

VFA-15's most recent deployment began on Sept. 8, 2008 aboard CVN-71 supporting OEF in Afghanistan. During this deployment, VFA 15 flew 584 combat sorties against Taliban insurgents. Due to superior maintenance efforts and dedication from all personnel involved, VFA 15 supported Three detachments while simultaneously dominating OEF with a 100 percent combat sortie completion rate, flying 4,700 mishap-free flight hours. The VALIONS returned to Virginia Beach on April 18, 2009. VFA-15 continues to operate the F/A-18C, preparing for future combat deployments. Year after year, Strike Fighter Squadron Fifteen has answered its Country's call and proven through quiet excellence that there is None Finer in Naval Aviation. VFR!

STRIKE FIGHTER
SQUADRON THIRTY ONE
"TOMCATTERS"
As one of the oldest squadrons operating in the U.S. Navy today, Strike Fighter Squadron Three One has a long and distinguished history. Its beginnings can be traced to the commissioning of the VF-1B Shooting Stars in July 1935, flying the Boeing F4B-4. Over the years, the squadron also has flown under the designations of VF-6 (1937-1943), VF-3 (1943-1948), VF-31 (1948-2006), and finally VFA 31 (2006-Present). It was in 1946 under the designation of VF-3 that "Felix the Cat" officially became the squadron mascot. Two years later during the redesignation to VF-31, the squadron adopted the current callsign of Tomcatters. During its distinguished history the Tomcatters have flown a multitude of venerable aircraft including the F4B-4, F3F-2, F4F-4, F6F, F8F-1, F9F-2, F2H, F3H, F-3B, F-4B, F-4J, F-14A, F-14D and F/A-18E.

Through the years the Tomcatters and their predecessors have served aboard the Navy's finest aircraft carriers, including: USS Langley (CV-1); USS Lexington (CV-2); and the USS Enterprise (CV-6). In 1980 VF-31 and USS Saratoga (CV-60) concluded a 24-year period of continuous service together, the longest in naval history. Since that time, the Tomcatters have served aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70), USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72), USS Stennis (CVN-74) and the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-73).

The tactical prowess of the Tomcatters is well documented as the squadron has served in every major conflict since its inception. The squadron was aboard USS Enterprise during the bombing of Pearl Harbor as well as the Battles of Wake Island, Marcus Island, Coral Sea, Midway, Guadalcanal and the Eastern Solomons. The squadron has seen aerial combat over the Philippines, Formosa, Okinawa and China. In 1972, flying the F-4J Phantom, CDR Sam "Speed" Flynn, the Tomcatter XO shot down a MIG-21 over North Vietnam. This accomplishment once again set the Tomcatters above its competitors by distinguishing VF-31 as the only Navy fighter squadron to achieve aerial victories in Three wars—WWII, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Overall, the Tomcatters' total combat experience includes fierce battles in virtually every theater of operation as well as regional conflicts all over the world. Following the September 11 attacks, the squadron was once again called to the fight and deployed on CVN-72 in July 2002, operating over Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, and again over the skies of Iraq supporting Southern Watch. In their return home, VF-31 along with the rest of the battle group was turned around on Jan. 1, 2003 to ready the stage for the commencement of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Flying from the first night of combat over Baghdad to the last day of the short war, VF-31 was individually responsible for delivering more than 230,000 tons of ordnance.

Following that historic cruise, Fighter Squadron Three-One marked the history books once again as they embarked with Carrier Air Wing Eight on the USS Theodore Roosevelt for the United States Navy's last Tomcat deployment in September 2005. Upon return, the squadron began the transition to the new F/A-18E Super Hornet and was redesignated Strike Fighter Squadron Three One (VFA-31).

Most recently, VFA-31 returned in April 2009 after a highly successful eight month combat deployment aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71). The Tomcatters dominated the skies above Afghanistan flying over 6,000 hours and 2,000 sorties in direct support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Through superior weapons, sophisticated technology and unparalleled skill, Fighting 31 achieved 100 percent target destruction expending 31 Precision Guided Munitions.

The Tomcatters are take great pride in the squadron's distinguished and colorful history. As you read this history, take comfort knowing, Felix stands the watch!

STRIKE FIGHTER SQUADRON EIGHT SEVEN
"GOLDEN WARRIORS"
On Feb. 1, 1968, the Golden Warriors were established as Attack Squadron Eight Seven, the first to fly the A-7B Corsair II from NAS Cecil Field, Fla. The first combat mission flown by the squadron was on March 4, 1969 from the USS Ticonderoga (CVA-14), striking enemy targets in South Vietnam. In August 1970, VA-87 joined CVW 6 and made 12 deployments aboard USS Franklin D. Roosevelt (CV-42), USS America (CV-66) and USS Independence (CV-62).

In the fall of 1973, the Golden Warriors embarked onboard USS Franklin D. Roosevelt (CV-42) to protect U.S. interests during the Arab-Israeli War. Transitioning to the improved A-7E Corsair II, the squadron returned in October 1975 to the Middle East following the assassination of the American Ambassador to Lebanon and assisted in the evacuation of U.S. citizens. During the Iranian hostage crises and the Israeli-Syrian disputes of 1981, VA-87 deployed to the region for 195 days. One year later the Golden Warriors were back in the fray, supporting U.S. peacekeeping operations in Lebanon for 172 days.

In October 1983, the Golden Warriors participated in Operation Urgent Fury, protecting American citizens from political strife in Grenada. During the same deployment, VA-87 participated in strikes against Syria in the on-going United Nations efforts to stabilize the Middle East.

The Golden Warriors began a new era on Oct. 24, 1986 when the venerable Corsair was retired and the squadron was designated Strike Fighter Squadron Eight Seven with the new McDonnell Douglas F/A-18A Hornet, the first Naval aircraft designed from conception as a Strike Fighter.

After a temporary assignment with Carrier Air Wing One, the Golden Warriors embarked in USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) while joining the world's most powerful air wing, Carrier Air Wing Eight (CVW-8), in December 1988. Then, on Dec. 28, 1990, VFA-87 deployed for Operation Desert Storm, flying 629 sorties over 43 days of intense combat to liberate Kuwait.

From March to September 1993, the Golden Warriors supported Operations Deny Flight, Provide Comfort and Southern Watch (OSW) with the newer F/A-18C Hornet. USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) and VFA-87 returned to the Arabian Gulf in March 1995 for OSW followed by combat sorties over Yugoslavia. On Aug. 30, 1995, Golden Warrior jets were the first to strike Bosnian-Serb targets during Operation Deliberate Force.

The Golden Warriors then participated in Operation Deliberate Guard during a summer deployment with USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67). They also returned to the familiar Arabian Gulf for OSW before coming home in October 1997 to Cecil Field for the final time in the squadron's history.

VFA-87 made history again by participating in combat operations in two different theaters during a single deployment, operating from USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71). While en route to the Arabian Gulf in April 1999, crisis erupted in the former Yugoslavian republic of Kosovo, prompting the largest aerial bombing campaign since the Vietnam War. In just 68 days, "War Party" F/A-18s dropped 430,000 pounds of ordnance and flew 595 combat missions during Operation Allied Force, contributing to a NATO victory and expelling Serbian oppressors from the war-torn province of Kosovo. In July, VFA-87 returned to the Arabian Gulf and flew 176 combat missions in support of Operation Southern Watch. Following deployment, the Golden Warriors returned to their first new home in over thirty years, NAS Oceana in Virginia Beach, Va.

The Golden Warriors left Oceana in April 2001 for the Mediterranean onboard USS Enterprise (CVN-65), the world's first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. VFA-87 left the Arabian Gulf after six weeks of OSW support, beginning the long transit back to Virginia when the 9/11 terrorist attacks occurred. Following the tragedy of Sept. 11, 2001, the "War Party" once again answered the call when the United States Navy responded with a massive offensive against the Taliban and Al Qaeda forces in Afghanistan—the birth of a war against global terrorism in Operation Enduring Freedom.

While preparing for a spring 2003 deployment to the Mediterranean, escalating tensions in the Middle East again brought the Golden Warriors to action as a member of the CVW 8 team, embarked in USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-1). Deploying to the eastern Mediterranean five months ahead of schedule, the Golden Warriors again made history by contributing to the removal of Saddam Hussein's regime in Iraq in Operation Iraqi Freedom. After a two year hiatus, the "War Party" deployed onboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom for a second time in September 2005, ensuring a successful constitutional referendum and Iraq's first free elections. The Golden Warriors were awarded their first ever Battle Efficiency Award in 2005 and repeated with the 2006 Battle "E" Award.

Strike Fighter Squadron Eight Seven completed an unprecedented and highly successful transition from the heavily utilized, combat proven F/A-18C back to the older but less fatigued F/A 18A+ Hornet in late 2006. Throughout 2007 and 2008 VFA-87 actively participated in various detachments and work-up exercises in preparation for their most recent deployment. The "War Party" deployed onboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) in September 2008 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, returning home to NAS Oceana in April 2009.

STRIKE FIGHTER SQUADRON
TWO ONE THREE
"BLACKLIONS"
The Fighting Blacklions of VF-213 were commissioned on June 22, 1955 at NAS Moffett Field, California. The Blacklions flew the F-2H3 Banshee during their first deployment aboard USS Bonhomme Richard (CV-31). They transitioned to the F-4D Skyray and deployed twice on USS Lexington (CV-16). VF-213 flew the F-H2 Demon for their third WESTPAC deployment aboard the "LEX," which gave the squadron the capability to employ the AIM-7 Sparrow.

In June 1961, the squadron moved to San Diego, California where they were based at NAS Miramar. In February 1964, the Blacklions accepted the first of their new F-4 Phantoms. In November 1965, VF-213 joined Carrier Air Wing 11 (CVW 11) and began the first of six combat deployments to the South China Sea aboard USS Kitty Hawk (CV-64)—flying missions over Southeast Asia in the Vietnam War. Throughout the war, the Blacklions flew more than 11,500 combat missions and delivered in excess of 6,000 tons of ordnance. On Dec. 20, 1966, LT D. A. McRae and ENS D. N. Nichols downed an enemy AN-2 Colt for the Squadron's first kill.

In December 1976, VF-213 transitioned to the F-14A Tomcat. The Blacklions deployed to the Western Pacific in 1988 where they took part in Operation Praying Mantis, a naval conflict with Iran on April 18, 1988. VF-213 deployed on USS Enterprise for its final WESTPAC in 1989. The Blacklions deployed in 1991 on USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) in support of Operation Desert Storm. Day and night Combat Air Patrol flights by the Blacklions over Kuwait protected coalition forces from Iraqi-air attack. The squadron deployed for the second time aboard USS Abraham Lincoln in 1993 and participated in Operation Southern Watch over Iraq and Operation Restore Hope in Somalia. In 1995, the Blacklions again deployed aboard "ABE" in support of Operation Southern Watch.

VF-213 next deployed on the USS Kitty Hawk, where the squadron deployed for six months in support of WESTPAC 1997. At the end of this deployment VF-213 became permanently stationed at NAS Oceana, and in December 1997 transitioned to the F-14D.

Deploying on the USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70), VF-213 returned to the Pacific to participate in RIMPAC 1998. The Blacklions next deployment took them to the Arabian Gulf, where, the Blacklions participated in Operation Desert Fox. VF-213 again embarked on (CVN-70) in July 2001. On Sept. 11, the Blacklions were preparing to enter the Persian Gulf in support of Operation Southern Watch when terrorists attacked New York and Washington D.C. The Blacklions would lead the first strikes into Afghanistan against Taliban and Al-Qaeda forces on Oct. 7, 2001—beginning Operation Enduring Freedon (OEF).

For the next 10 weeks, VF-213 participated with honor in OEF by flying more than 500 combat sorties and expended over 400,000 pounds of ordnance. The Blacklions also provided invaluable reconnaissance to the Task Force and Theater Commander with their TARPS pods. VF-213 received the 2001 COMNAVAIRPAC Battle "E," CNO Safety "S," CNO Clifton award and the COMFITWINGLANT Golden Wrench for their superb performance during 2001.

In 2002, the Blacklions became a member of Carrier Air Wing 8 (CVW-8). In January 2003 the squadron deployed aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). On March 21, 2003 VF-213, along with coalition forces, commenced combat missions over Iraq. Over the course of OIF, the BLACKLION'S completed 198 combat sorties, accumulated 907.6 combat flight hours and expended 96 Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAM) and 102 Laser Guided Bombs.

The squadron deployed for a second time in support of OIF in September 2005. Flying over 3,500 combat hours across 581 combat sorties, the Blacklions dominated the air over Iraq, dropping more than 5,000 pounds of precision guided ordnance. VF-213 also pioneered a new technology for the Tomcat in Remote Operated Video Receiver (ROVER) capability. This allowed the troops on the ground to see the Tomcat's infrared display from the cockpit real-time. Soon after, this ability became a requirement for all strike aircraft operating in Iraq.

After their return in March 2006, the Blacklions were re-designated VFA-213 on April 2, 2006. Transition to the F/A-18F Super Hornet began in May and the squadron was "Safe for Flight" on Oct. 27 of that year.

During 2007-2008, the Blacklions took the lead in developing new tactics and procedures for using the Navy's newest airborne radar. The experience gained and developments made by the Blacklions provided for the smooth transition of several F/A-18E/F squadrons to the Active Electronic Scanned Array (AESA) radar. The Blacklions also received the COMFITWINGLANT Golden Wrench award for 2008.

In September 2008, VFA-213 deployed with CVW-8 aboard CVN-71 for the first time as a Super Hornet squadron. The Blacklions executed combat operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedon (OEF) from October 2008 through March 2009. At the conclusion of their cruise, the Blacklions had completed 680 combat sorties, accumulating more than 3,970 combat hours, while employing 26 precision guided bombs and over 2000 rounds of 20mm ammunition.

Over the course of VFA-213's history, no matter where the conflict occurred or what aircraft the Blacklions employed, the aircrew, maintainers and families of VFA-213 have continuously embodied true fighter spirit. Whether performing air superiority and interdiction missions in Southeast Asia or striking deep into enemy territory in support of operations in the Middle East, the Blacklions are proud to continue their 54-year history of leading the country's most demanding missions.

CARRIER AIR WING SEVENTEEN (CVW-17)
The Air Group that would come to be known as Carrier Air Wing Seventeen, Carrier Air Group Eighty Two, was created during World War II on April 1, 1944, in Atlantic City. Air Group 82 deployed for one of the last combat tours of the war aboard USS Bennington (CV 20) as the first air group to operate from her decks. The air group operated in the Pacific for the remainder of the war supporting the assault on Iwo Jima and the Japanese home islands. During the battle for Okinawa, the Air Group was the first to attack the Japanese super battleship Yamato that resulted in the ship sinking.

Following the war, the air group was re-designated Carrier Air Group Seventeen (CVAG-17) and redeployed to the East Coast in 1946. Until the Air Group was deactivated in September 1958, Air Group 17 operated with the Atlantic Fleet and deployed to the Mediterranean and North Atlantic onboard USS Franklin D. Roosevelt, USS Wasp and USS Coral Sea.

Air Group 17 was reactivated in November 1966, as Air Wing 17 (CVW-17) and assigned to the USS Forrestal (CV-59). Just six and a half months after re-forming, the air wing deployed to the Tonkin Gulf aboard Forrestal. CVW-17 flew its first combat missions into Vietnam on July 25, 1967. On the fifth day of combat operations, a Zuni rocket was accidentally fired across the Forrestal's flight deck resulting in a catastrophic fire. Herculean efforts eventually controlled the flames, but not before 134 men were killed (including 112 Air Wing personnel) and 21 aircraft were destroyed.

Throughout the next 15 years the Forrestal/CVW-17 team remained intact, conducting 10 Mediterranean deployments. The Air Wing headquarters moved from NAS Oceana to NAS Cecil Field in 1980. When the Forrestal entered a Three-year Service Life Extension Program (SLEP) in November 1982, CVW-17 crossdecked to the USS Saratoga (CV-60). The '85 to '86 Med Cruise found the Saratoga/CVW-17 team in the thick of the action, intercepting the Egyptian airliner containing the Achille Lauro hijackers on Oct. 10, 1985, and conducting strikes against Libya in March 1986.

Following lraq's invasion of Kuwait in August 1990, CVW-17 and Saratoga were immediately dispatched from a med deployment to the Red Sea. During Operation Desert Shield, CVW 17 and Saratoga maintained sea control in the Red Sea while preparing for combat. CVW-17 launched its first combat strike into Iraq at 3 a.m. on Jan. 17, 1991 and continued to strike targets almost continuously over the next 43 days during Operation Desert Storm. CVW-17 aircraft delivered over four million pounds of ordnance during Desert Storm, returning home on March 28, 1991.

In November 1992, CVW-17 and Saratoga completed yet another record setting deployment to the Mediterranean, logging over 22,500 flight hours and over 9,500 arrested landings. CVW-17 and Saratoga were the first Carrier Battle Group to take station in the Adriatic Sea off the coast of Yugoslavia in support of Operation Provide Promise. In addition to supporting United Nations Forces, CVW-17 participated in NATO and other exercises with 11 littoral Mediterranean countries.

In June 1994, CVW-17 was transferred to USS Enterprise (CVN-65) homeported in Norfolk, Va. In September 1994, CVW-17 moved its headquarters back to NAS Oceana, Va. Upon completing a successful 1996 deployment on Enterprise, CVW-17 was transferred to USS Eisenhower (CVN-69), also homeported in Norfolk, Va.

In the summer of 1998, CVW-17 and the Eisenhower patrolled the Adriatic Sea in an effort to keep the peace in Yugoslavia. Following the 1998 Mediterranean cruise, CVW-17 was transferred to USS George Washington (CVN-73), homeported in Norfolk, Va. During "Team 90s" (CVN-73 + CVW-17) combat deployment to the Mediterranean and Indian Ocean in 2000, CVW-17 broke numerous operational and positive safety records flying over 9,300 sorties, 18,000 flight hours and logging over 9,200 arrested landings. As a result of a banner deployment and unmatched operational excellence and teamwork, the CVW-17/ CVN-73 team garnered 52 awards in 2000, including six Battle "E"s, four Safety "S"s, the RADM McCluskey and RADM Clifton awards, and the first ever RADM Ramage award for operational excellence.

CVW-17 deployed again with the George Washington Battle Group in June 2002, to the North Arabian Sea off the coast of Pakistan. In support of Operation Enduring Freedom, CVW-17 aircraft conducted strikes against the Taliban and al Qaeda in Afghanistan. After returning from the six-month deployment on the George Washington, CVW-17 was reassigned to the USS John F. Kennedy, homeported in Mayport, Fla. Air Wing 17 deployed on the "Big John" in June 2004, for what would be a six-and-a-half month deployment to the Persian Gulf in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Together, the aircraft of CVW-17 flew 8,296 sorties for a total flight time of 21,824 hours during the 2004 deployment. Of that total, 4,396 sorties and 11,607 flight hours were in direct support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

CVW-17 aircraft dropped over 54,000 pounds of ordnance in support of coalition operations in Iraq. Air Wing aircraft, flying missions more than six-hour long from the USS John F. Kennedy, played a key role in supporting coalition ground forces during operations in Fallujah, Iraq in November 2004. As coalition forces swept through the city, clearing it of insurgents, CVW 17 joined Air Force and Marine Corps aircraft in striking key positions. The Air Wing returned to NAS Oceana in December 2004.

From April to May 2006, and April to October 2008, CVW-17 completed two deployments in support of Partnerships of the Americas (POA) aboard the USS George Washington (CVN-73). Partnership of the Americas included exercises and operations with Caribbean and Latin American countries, as well as goodwill port visits throughout the region. The U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM)-sponsored deployment was designed to enhance maritime security and strengthen ties with partner nations.

Carrier Air Wing 17 is currently composed of VFA-81 flying the F/A-18E Supper Hornet, VAW-125 flying the E-2C Hawkeye, VAQ-134 flying the EA-6B PROWLER, and HS-15 flying the SH-60F and HH-60H Seahawk. The Air Wing is currently embarked on the USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70), which is conducting a transit to it new home port in San Diego, Calif.

STRIKE FIGHTER
SQUADRON EIGHT ONE
"SUNLINERS"
The Sunliners of Strike Fighter Squadron Eight One (VFA-81) were originally commissioned as Fighter Squadron Eight One (VF-81), an all weather fighter interceptor squadron, on July 1, 1955, flying the Grumman F9F-8 "Cougar." Originally called the "Crusaders," the squadron made two Mediterranean cruises before their mission, designation and aircraft changed with a transition to the A4D-2 "Skyhawk" in March 1959. After becoming Attack Squadron Eight One (VA-81), they made multiple deployments with Second and Sixth Fleet aboard USS Shangri-La (CVA-38) and USS Forrestal (CVA-59). During this time, the orange "Supersonic Nothing" adorned the vertical stabilizer of Three types of A-4s. In 1963 the squadron adopted the name Sunliners, and the motto "Anytime, Anyplace."

In February 1970, the Sunliners won the coveted Navy Battle "E" for East Coast A-4 squadrons and were selected to be the first East Coast squadron to receive the Navy's newest attack aircraft, the A-7E Corsair II. The Sunliners took their new aircraft aboard USS Forrestal (CVA 59) with Carrier Air Wing Seventeen (CVW-17) in January 1971 on their twelfth Mediterranean deployment. By the end of the 1974 competitive cycle, the orange tailed "Zappers" had demonstrated sustained excellence by winning Three Light Attack Wing One bombing derbies and a second Navy Battle "E."

On Aug. 7, 1990, the Sunliners deployed along with CVW-17 aboard USS Saratoga (CV-60) for their first F/A-18 "Hornet" cruise and new mission as a Strike Fighter Squadron. This deployment took place one week after Iraq had invaded Kuwait, and VFA-81 participated in both Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm as part of the Red Sea Battle Force. Before the war's end the Sunliners scored the Navy's only two aerial victories by downing two Iraqi MiG-21s. VFA 81 returned to NAS Cecil Field on March 27, 1991, following the swift coalition victory.

After returning home the squadron found themselves deployed May 6, 1992 onboard the USS Saratoga (CV-60) participating in several NATO exercises before returning home on Nov. 6, 1992. In early 1994, the squadron participated in Operations Deny Flight and Provide Promise supporting United Nations (UN) resolutions in Bosnia-Herzegovina during the last deployment of USS Saratoga (CV 60). This was VFA 81s third Hornet cruise, and the first Atlantic Fleet deployment with the AMRAAM missile. VFA-81 then cruised on the USS Enterprise (CVN 65) in 1996 for their 26th Mediterranean Cruise. The Sunliners participated in Operation Southern Watch and made the very first carrier port call to Bahrain. The USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) cruise began June 10, 1998 and found VFA-81 again in the Operation Southern Watch arena. This was the first East Coast cruise of the new Joint Stand-Off Weapon (JSOW), a long range glide cluster bomb. For their work, the squadron was proud to be awarded the Safety "S" for the 1998 CY.

The Sunliners returned home, only to start another move, this time to NAS Oceana as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) of NAS Cecil Field. With detachments to Key West and Elemendorf AFB, Alaska, the Liners proved they could get good training in any environment. The end of work-ups led to the deployment aboard CVN-73 USS George Washington on June 21, 2000. The Sunliners got it down in fine style again supporting Operations Deliberate Forge in the Adriatic and Southern Watch in the Persian Gulf.

The return from cruise saw a quick turnaround for the Liners with world events shaping much of the time home. After representing the United States in the 2001 Maple Flag exercise with the Canadians, it was a lightening quick response to the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks that saw the Sunliners aboard the USS George Washington (CVN-73) for Operation Noble Eagle in the days immediately following the tragedy. Just a few months later, the Liners deployed again aboard the USS George Washington for Operation Enduring Freedom. The Sunliners showed professionalism and expertise while embarked and walked away with the air wing Top Hook award as well as the Golden Wrench for 2002.

The year 2003 found the Liners getting to certify the flight deck of the Navy's newest carrier, the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76). A few short months later, work-ups started again and on June 7, 2004, the VFA-81 Sunliners deployed once more, this time aboard the USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67). While flying in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, the Sunliners showed what they are made of winning the Battle "E," the Safety "S," the McClusky Award, as well as the Estocin Award. In everything they do, the Sunliners continue to live up to their motto, "Anytime, Anyplace!"

STRIKE FIGHTER
SQUADRON THREE FOUR
"BLUE BLASTERS"
VFA-34 is attached to Carrier Air Wing Two (CVW-2), which is based at Naval Air Station Lemoore in California. As a front line strike fighter squadron, the Blue Blasters directly participated in World War II, the Cuban Crisis, the Vietnam Conflict, Desert Shield and Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom. The squadron has flown eight different aircraft types from the decks of 26 carriers while compiling an enviable list of "firsts."

The squadron was originally commissioned the VF-20 "Jokers" at NAS San Diego, Calif., on Oct. 15, 1943. VF-20 conducted numerous missions in WWII flying F6F Hellcats. Shortly after the surrender of Japan, the squadron transitioned to the F8F Bearcat and was re-designated VF-9A. After being re-designated again in the summer of 1948 as VF-91, the squadron became VF-34 in 1950. It was then that the squadron transitioned to its first jet aircraft, the F9F Panther. One year later, the squadron began initial training in the F2H Banshee and transferred to NAS Cecil Field, Fla. The squadron spent the next two years operating from the various attack carriers. Upon their return in 1955, the squadron was again re-designated, this time as VA-34. In spring of 1956, it accepted its first F7U Cutlass, which it operated until receiving A-4D Skyhawks in March 1957. The squadron became the first Skyhawk squadron to deploy to the Mediterranean. It was during this period that the squadron adopted their present nickname, taking inspiration from their blue tail colors and their nuclear weapon delivery capability; hence the name "Blue Blasters."

From 1959 through 1966, the Blue Blasters operated from the decks of USS Saratoga (CV-60) and USS Essex (CV-9). Squadron involvement in world events included clandestine operations in the Caribbean during the Bay of Pigs invasion and action off the coast of Lebanon in 1958. The squadron distinguished itself in the Gulf of Tonkin and North Vietnam in 1967 during the Vietnam Conflict onboard USS Intrepid (CV-11). Attack Squadron 34 was disestablished on May 29, 1969. Seven months later, on Jan. 1, 1970, the Blue Blasters were reestablished at NAS Oceana, Va., as the Atlantic Fleet's sixth A-6A Intruder squadron.

The Blue Blasters made aviation history in 1986 as the first squadron to employ the Harpoon Missile in combat. Less than one month later, the Blue Blasters conducted a daring night, low-level, high-speed attack against Libyan terrorist barracks and aircraft storage facilities.

The Blue Blasters deployment in 1990 featured integration of night vision goggles and Slam missile capability into their A-6Es. They also participated in Operation Desert Shield.

On Sept. 30, 1996, Attack Squadron 34 was re-designated Strike Fighter Squadron 34 and returned once again to NAS Cecil Field, Fla. The Blue Blasters immediately began the transition to the Boeing FA-18C Hornet. In 1998, the Blasters became the first squadron to fly the Lot XIX and XX Hornets. In March 1999, the Blue Blasters conducted yet another homeport shift, moving from NAS Cecil Field, Fla. to NAS Oceana, Va. On May 10, 1999 the Chief of Naval Operations approved a modification to the squadron's insignia tailoring the design to the FA-18 Strike Fighter community. The VFA-34 Blue Blasters returned to USS George Washington (CVN-73) in June 2000 for another extended deployment to the Mediterranean Sea and Arabian Gulf. The Blasters had the opportunity to project power in support of Operations Southern Watch and Deliberate Forge. In December 2000, the Blue Blasters returned home to NAS Oceana, Va.

In June 2002, the Blue Blasters embarked again on the USS George Washington (CVN-73) for a deployment to the Mediterranean Sea, Arabian Sea and Arabian Gulf. The Blasters were among the last squadrons to fly missions over Iraq in support of Operation Southern Watch. In 2003, the Blue Blasters and CVW-17 became part of the John F. Kennedy Carrier Strike Group. Subsequently, the Blue Blasters embarked on the USS John F. Kennedy

(CV-67), for a Mediterranean Sea/Arabian Gulf deployment in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom in 2004. The Blue Blasters lead the way in supporting the ground fighters in Iraq against the insurgent movement. In March 2005, Strike Fighter Squadron Three Four became operationally attached to CVW-2 and embarked on the west coast carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72).

While deployed aboard USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72), the Blue Blasters were the Air Wing's Maritime Interdiction and Defensive Counter Air subject matter experts during 2006's most visible force-projecting exercises; Foul Eagle, Valiant Shield and Rim of the Pacific. The Blasters remained a critical part of CVW-2 and spent 2007 preparing tactically and logistically for the eagerly awaited deployment that would begin in March 2008.

Deploying once again on the USS Abraham Lincoln, VFA-34 provided vital airpower in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. After protecting the troops on the ground for two months in Iraq, the Blue Blasters were called in to assist the coalition forces in Afghanistan. VFA-34 spent another two months providing CAS in support of Operation Enduring Freedom before returning home victorious in October 2008.

Following deployment, the squadron continued their tradition of excellence by successfully completing several missile shoots and air to air training detachments in 2009. The Blasters also maintained their landing currency throughout the turnaround cycle with the addition of two highly successful carrier deck certification detachments. The squadron now looks ahead to a year full of workups and eagerly awaits deployment later in 2010.

The Blue Blasters of today are a formidable fighting force, sporting the newest technology and tactics. Through eight different aircraft types and 26 aircraft carriers, the Blue Blasters never lost their sense of tradition. The Blue Blasters are seen and heard in the skies all over the globe flying under the call sign "Joker," as a tribute to our fighting heritage. The men and women of Strike Fighter Squadron Three Four stand ready to heed our Nation's call. Have Gun...Will Travel.  read more...

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