USN

VAH-4 (Heavy Attack Squadron Four) was a United States Navy squadron established on January 1, 1956. The squadron was initially equipped with the A3D Skywarrior, a carrier-based heavy attack aircraft designed for long-range nuclear strike missions during the Cold War. VAH-4 served primarily with the Pacific Fleet, deploying on various aircraft carriers including USS Oriskany and USS Hancock. The unit was disestablished on May 1, 1969, as the Navy phased out the heavy attack mission and transitioned to newer aircraft and strategies.

Electronic Attack Squadron 138 (VAQ-138), known as the "Yellowjackets," was established in 1969. Initially flying the EKA-3B Skywarrior, the squadron later transitioned to the EA-6B Prowler and currently operates the EA-18G Growler, specializing in electronic warfare and suppression of enemy air defenses. VAQ-138 has participated in numerous operations, including Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, providing critical electronic attack capabilities to U.S. and allied forces. The squadron is based at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington, and continues to play a vital role in modern naval aviation.

Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 11 (VAW-11), known as the “Early Elevens,” was established on 6 March 1952. As one of the U.S. Navy’s pioneering airborne early warning (AEW) units, VAW-11 initially operated the Grumman AF-2W Guardian and later transitioned to the E-1B Tracer, providing radar surveillance and fleet air defense. The squadron played a crucial role during the Cold War era, supporting carrier battle groups in the Pacific and participating in deployments during the Vietnam War. VAW-11 was disestablished on 1 April 1967, with its detachments forming the basis for several new VAW squadrons that continued its legacy.

Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron Twelve (VAW-12), known as the "Bats," was established in July 1948 as part of the U.S. Navy's efforts to develop carrier-based airborne early warning (AEW) capabilities. Initially flying the TBM-3W Avenger, VAW-12 transitioned to more advanced AEW platforms, including the AF-2W Guardian, AD-5W Skyraider, and later the E-1B Tracer. The squadron played a crucial role in providing radar surveillance and airborne command and control for carrier strike groups during the Cold War era. In April 1967, VAW-12 was disestablished, with its assets and mission forming the core of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Wing ONE and supporting the creation of new VAW squadrons in the Atlantic Fleet.

Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 123 (VAW-123), known as the "Screwtops," was established in 1967. As part of the U.S. Navy, the squadron operates the E-2 Hawkeye aircraft, providing airborne early warning and battle management for carrier strike groups. VAW-123 has supported major operations including Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, earning numerous awards for its operational excellence. The squadron continues to play a critical role in surveillance, command and control, and maritime security missions worldwide.

**VC-10** was a United States Navy Composite Squadron, established during World War II. Formed in September 1943, VC-10 was assigned to escort carriers and specialized in anti-submarine warfare and maritime patrol, primarily in the Atlantic theater. The squadron flew aircraft such as the Grumman TBF Avenger and FM-2 Wildcat, providing critical protection for Allied convoys against German U-boats. VC-10 earned distinction for its successful operations, including the sinking of several enemy submarines, before being disestablished in June 1945 following the end of the war in Europe.

VF-121, also known as "The Pacemakers," was a United States Navy fighter squadron established in 1946. Initially flying F6F Hellcats and later transitioning to jet aircraft such as the F9F Panther and F3H Demon, the squadron played an important role in training and operational deployments during the Korean War era. In the late 1950s, VF-121 became the Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) for the F-4 Phantom II on the West Coast, responsible for training aircrews and maintenance personnel for the new aircraft. VF-121 was disestablished in 1971, having significantly contributed to the development and readiness of U.S. Navy fighter aviation.

Strike Fighter Squadron 143 (VF-143), known as the "Pukin’ Dogs," was established in 1950 as VF-871 before being redesignated VF-143 in 1953. The squadron flew a variety of aircraft, including the F-4 Phantom II and later the F-14 Tomcat, participating in major conflicts such as the Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, and Operation Enduring Freedom. VF-143 earned a reputation for excellence in air combat and fleet defense, earning multiple awards and citations throughout its service. In 2005, the unit was redesignated as VFA-143 and transitioned to flying the F/A-18E Super Hornet, continuing its distinguished legacy as a carrier-based strike fighter squadron in the United States Navy.

Strike Fighter Squadron 86 (VFA-86), known as the "Sidewinders," was originally established as VA-86 on 1 February 1955. The squadron flew the F-14 Tomcat before transitioning to the F/A-18 Hornet, reflecting the Navy’s modernization efforts. VFA-86 has participated in numerous significant operations, including the Gulf of Sidra incident, Operation Desert Storm, and Operation Enduring Freedom. Over decades of service, the Sidewinders have earned a reputation for excellence in carrier-based strike operations and support of U.S. Navy missions worldwide.