USN

VF-53, also known as Fighter Squadron 53, was a United States Navy fighter squadron established during World War II. Commissioned in 1943 as VF-53 "Iron Angels," the squadron flew F6F Hellcats and later F4U Corsairs in the Pacific Theater, participating in key battles such as the Marianas Turkey Shoot and strikes against Japanese-held islands. Reactivated during the Korean War, VF-53 transitioned to jet aircraft, flying F9F Panthers and later F-8 Crusaders through the Vietnam War. The squadron was ultimately disestablished in 1971, having built a distinguished combat record across three major conflicts.

VF-662 was a United States Navy Reserve fighter squadron established during the Korean War era. Originally activated in the early 1950s, VF-662 was equipped with F4U Corsair and later F9F Panther aircraft. The squadron was called to active duty and deployed aboard aircraft carriers, conducting combat operations and providing air support over Korea. After fulfilling its operational commitments, VF-662 was deactivated and returned to reserve status, contributing to the legacy of Reserve aviation in the U.S. Navy.

Strike Fighter Squadron 2 (VFA-2), known as the “Bounty Hunters,” is a distinguished U.S. Navy fighter squadron established in October 1972. Originally flying the F-14 Tomcat, VFA-2 participated in key operations such as Operation Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. In 2003, the squadron transitioned to the F/A-18F Super Hornet, enhancing its strike fighter capabilities. VFA-2 continues to serve with Carrier Air Wing 2 (CVW-2), operating from aircraft carriers and maintaining a legacy of operational excellence in naval aviation.

Strike Fighter Squadron 34 (VFA-34), known as the "Blue Blasters," is a United States Navy fighter squadron established in 1943. Originally designated as VF-20, the unit served with distinction in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, flying various aircraft including the F6F Hellcat and F-4 Phantom II. In 1990, the squadron was redesignated VFA-34 and transitioned to the F/A-18 Hornet, participating in operations such as Southern Watch, Enduring Freedom, and Inherent Resolve. Today, VFA-34 is based at Naval Air Station Oceana and continues to support carrier air wing deployments worldwide.

Strike Fighter Squadron 82 (VFA-82), known as the "Marauders," was a United States Navy strike fighter squadron established in 1967. Originally designated as Attack Squadron 82 (VA-82), the unit flew the A-7 Corsair II before transitioning to the F/A-18C Hornet in the late 1980s. Throughout its history, VFA-82 participated in major conflicts, including Operation Desert Storm in 1991 and Operation Enduring Freedom after the September 11 attacks. The squadron was deactivated in 2005 after nearly four decades of distinguished service.

Strike Fighter Squadron 83 (VFA-83), known as the "Rampagers," is a distinguished U.S. Navy strike fighter squadron established in April 1950. Initially flying the F4U Corsair, the squadron transitioned through several aircraft, including the F-8 Crusader and A-7 Corsair II, before adopting the F/A-18 Hornet in the late 1980s and later the F/A-18E Super Hornet. VFA-83 has participated in numerous major operations, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Southern Watch, and Operation Enduring Freedom, providing air superiority and precision strike capabilities. The squadron is currently based at Naval Air Station Oceana, continuing its tradition of excellence as part of Carrier Air Wing 7.

VFAW-3, or Fighter All-Weather Squadron 3, was a United States Navy aviation unit established on February 1, 1952. The squadron was notable for being one of the Navy’s first dedicated all-weather jet fighter squadrons, initially flying the F2H-2N Banshee before transitioning to the F3D Skyknight. VFAW-3 was assigned the unique role of providing all-weather air defense for the continental United States as part of the Air Defense Command, operating from NAS North Island, California. The squadron was disestablished on September 7, 1958, marking the end of its pioneering role in naval all-weather jet operations.

Patrol Squadron 674 (VP-674) was a United States Navy Reserve patrol squadron established on 1 July 1950 during the Korean War era as part of the rapid expansion of naval aviation reserves. The squadron was primarily equipped with the PBY-5A Catalina, a versatile maritime patrol and antisubmarine warfare aircraft. VP-674 was based out of NAS Los Alamitos, California, conducting training and coastal patrol missions to enhance fleet readiness and homeland security. The squadron was redesignated as VP-861 in February 1953 as part of a Navy-wide reorganization of reserve units.

**Vp-mau** is a designation for a Vietnamese People's Air Force (VPAF) MiG-21 interceptor unit that played a crucial role during the Vietnam War. Established in the 1960s, the unit was tasked with defending North Vietnamese airspace against American bombing campaigns, notably Operation Rolling Thunder and Operation Linebacker. Vp-mau pilots became renowned for their hit-and-run tactics, utilizing the MiG-21's speed and agility to engage U.S. aircraft and achieve a number of air-to-air victories. The unit's effectiveness contributed significantly to the VPAF's overall air defense strategy and is celebrated in Vietnamese military history.