About this Unit
Attack Squadron 125 (VA-125), known as the “Rough Raiders,” was a United States Navy attack squadron established on 30 June 1956. Initially based at NAS Miramar, the squadron served as a fleet replacement training unit, preparing pilots and maintenance personnel to operate the A-4 Skyhawk attack aircraft. VA-125 played a crucial role in training aviators during the Vietnam War era, ensuring a steady flow of combat-ready crews to the fleet. The squadron was disestablished on 10 October 1977, having contributed significantly to Navy attack aviation training and readiness.
Historical Facts
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Establishment: VA-125, originally designated as VA-26, was established on 30 June 1956 and redesignated as VA-125 on 11 April 1958.
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Nickname: The squadron was known as the “Rough Riders.”
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Mission: VA-125 served primarily as a Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS), tasked with training U.S. Navy pilots and maintenance personnel in attack aircraft operations.
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Aircraft Flown: Over its history, VA-125 operated several aircraft types, including the AD Skyraider, A-4 Skyhawk, and later the A-7 Corsair II.
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Location: The squadron was based at Naval Air Station (NAS) Moffett Field, California, before moving to NAS Lemoore, California, in July 1961, which remains a significant Navy air station today.
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Vietnam War Role: VA-125 played a crucial role in preparing pilots and crews for combat deployments to Vietnam, especially in the A-4 Skyhawk and A-7 Corsair II.
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Training Legacy: The squadron’s rigorous training program contributed to the readiness and effectiveness of multiple front-line attack squadrons during the Cold War and Vietnam era.
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Female Aviator Milestone: VA-125 was one of the first squadrons to train female naval aviators in the A-7 Corsair II after the Navy opened combat aircraft to women in the 1970s.
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Disestablishment: The squadron was disestablished on 1 October 1977, as part of a restructuring of Navy training commands.
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Legacy Units: The lineage and traditions of VA-125 continue in various training and operational units within naval aviation, reflecting the squadron's impact on U.S. Navy airpower.
