About this Unit
Strike Fighter Squadron 115 (VA-115), nicknamed the "Eagles," was originally established as Torpedo Squadron Eleven (VT-11) on October 10, 1942. The unit participated in major Pacific Theater operations during World War II, including strikes in the Solomon Islands, the Marianas, and the Philippines. Over the decades, VA-115 transitioned through several aircraft, from torpedo bombers to attack jets, and was redesignated as Strike Fighter Squadron 115 (VFA-115) in 1996. The squadron has seen action in numerous conflicts, including the Korean War, Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, and the Global War on Terror, operating from forward-deployed carriers in the Western Pacific and Middle East.
Historical Facts
•
Establishment: VA-115, also known as Strike Fighter Squadron 115, was originally established as Torpedo Squadron Eleven (VT-11) on October 10, 1942, during World War II.
•
Nickname: The squadron is famously known as the "Eagles," a moniker that has been with them since 1950.
•
World War II Service: VA-115 participated in several critical campaigns in the Pacific Theater, including the Solomon Islands, the Philippines, and the Battle of Leyte Gulf.
•
Korean War: The squadron flew combat missions from the USS Philippine Sea (CV-47) during the Korean War, providing close air support and interdiction missions.
•
Vietnam War: VA-115 flew multiple combat deployments to Vietnam, operating from various aircraft carriers and taking part in significant operations such as Rolling Thunder and Linebacker.
•
Aircraft Evolution: Over its history, VA-115 has transitioned through many aircraft, including the TBM Avenger, AD Skyraider, A-1 Skyraider, A-6 Intruder, and now the F/A-18E Super Hornet.
•
Forward Deployment: Since 1973, VA-115 has been forward-deployed to Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan, making it a key element of the U.S. Navy's presence in the Western Pacific.
•
Desert Storm: VA-115 participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, flying strike missions against Iraqi military targets from the USS Midway (CV-41).
•
Humanitarian Missions: The squadron has assisted in disaster relief operations, including support after the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami in Japan as part of Operation Tomodachi.
•
Longevity: With over 80 years of continuous service, VA-115 is one of the oldest and most storied squadrons in U.S. naval aviation history, known for its adaptability and combat effectiveness.
