VA-128

• Establishment: VA-128, known as the "Golden Intruders," was established on September 1, 1967, at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington. • Primary Mission: The squadron's primary mission was to serve as the Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) for the A-6 Intruder, training pilots and bombardier/navigators for all A-6 squadrons in the U.S. Navy. • Aircraft Flown: VA-128 operated several variants of the A-6 Intruder, including the A-6A, A-6B, A-6C, and the KA-6D tanker version. • Nickname and Insignia: The squadron's nickname was "Golden Intruders," and its insignia featured a stylized gold A-6 Intruder aircraft. • Vietnam War Support: Although not deployed in combat, VA-128 played a critical support role during the Vietnam War by training aircrews who would go on to fly combat missions. • First Aircraft Received: The squadron received its first A-6A Intruder in September 1967, soon after its establishment. • Electronic Warfare Training: With the introduction of the EA-6A and later the EA-6B Prowler, VA-128 also contributed to the training of electronic warfare specialists for the Navy. • Desert Storm Impact: Many of the A-6 aircrews trained by VA-128 participated in Operation Desert Storm, flying critical strike and support missions. • Disestablishment: VA-128 was disestablished on September 30, 1995, following the retirement of the A-6 Intruder from U.S. Navy service. • Legacy: Over its 28-year history, VA-128 trained thousands of aircrew and maintenance personnel, leaving a lasting legacy in naval aviation and contributing significantly to U.S. military readiness.