About this Unit
Carrier Air Group FIVE (CVG-5), later redesignated as Carrier Air Wing FIVE (CVW-5), was originally established in 1943 during World War II as a carrier-based aviation unit of the United States Navy. The unit gained distinction for its operations in the Pacific Theater, participating in key battles and supporting major campaigns. After the war, CVG-5 continued to serve through the Cold War, adapting to new aircraft and missions. In 1973, CVW-5 became the only continuously forward-deployed U.S. Navy air wing, operating from Japan aboard various aircraft carriers and playing a crucial role in maintaining regional security in the Western Pacific.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: Carrier Air Group Five (CVG-5) was originally established on 15 February 1943, serving aboard the USS Yorktown (CV-10) and participating in key Pacific Theater operations.
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Multiple Redesignations: The unit has undergone several redesignations, known in modern times as Carrier Air Wing Five (CVW-5), reflecting changes in Navy nomenclature over decades.
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Longest-Serving Forward-Deployed Air Wing: CVW-5 has been forward-deployed to Japan since 1973, making it one of the longest continually forward-deployed U.S. air wings in history.
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Key Role in Vietnam War: CVW-5 flew from the USS Bon Homme Richard (CV-31) and later from the USS Midway (CV-41), conducting combat operations and earning numerous unit citations.
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Transition to F/A-18 Hornet: CVW-5 was among the first air wings to fully transition its fighter and attack squadrons to the versatile F/A-18 Hornet platform in the 1990s.
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Operation Desert Storm: The air wing participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, flying from the USS Midway and contributing significantly to coalition air operations.
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Humanitarian Missions: CVW-5 played a crucial role during Operation Tomodachi in 2011, supporting relief efforts after the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami.
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Homeport Shifts: The air wing was based at Naval Air Facility Atsugi for decades before relocating to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni in 2017, improving operational reach and safety.
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Iconic Squadrons: CVW-5 includes famous squadrons such as VFA-27 "Royal Maces" and VFA-102 "Diamondbacks," both renowned for their history and distinctive squadron art.
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Carrier Deployments: CVW-5 has operated from various aircraft carriers, including USS Yorktown, USS Midway, USS Independence, USS Kitty Hawk, USS George Washington, and USS Ronald Reagan, reflecting its adaptability and enduring relevance.
