About this Unit
Attack Squadron 146 (VA-146), known as the "Blue Diamonds," was established by the United States Navy on 1 February 1956. The squadron was originally designated as Fighter Squadron VF-146 before transitioning to an attack role in February 1956. VA-146 served with distinction during the Vietnam War, flying the A-4 Skyhawk from several aircraft carriers and participating in numerous combat operations. The squadron was disestablished on 1 December 1971, after 15 years of service.
Historical Facts
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Establishment: Attack Squadron 146 (VA-146), nicknamed the "Blue Diamonds," was established on February 1, 1956.
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Carrier Deployments: VA-146 completed multiple deployments aboard various aircraft carriers, including the USS Ranger (CVA-61), USS Constellation (CVA-64), and USS Enterprise (CVAN-65).
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Cuban Missile Crisis: VA-146 participated in the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, serving on the USS Constellation during the tense standoff.
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Vietnam War Service: The squadron saw extensive combat in the Vietnam War, flying A-4 Skyhawk and later A-7 Corsair II attack aircraft in numerous strike missions.
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First Carrier Combat Missions: VA-146 was among the first squadrons to strike North Vietnamese targets at the start of Operation Rolling Thunder in March 1965.
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Loss of CDR James Stockdale: On September 9, 1965, VA-146's Executive Officer, CDR James Stockdale, was shot down and captured, later becoming a famous POW and Medal of Honor recipient.
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Aircraft Transitions: The squadron transitioned through several aircraft types, including the F9F-8 Cougar, FJ-4B Fury, A-4 Skyhawk, and finally the A-7 Corsair II.
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Nickname Meaning: The "Blue Diamonds" nickname reflected both the squadron’s blue tail markings and its reputation for precision.
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First A-7 Corsair II Deployments: VA-146 was one of the first Pacific Fleet squadrons to operate the A-7A Corsair II, introducing the advanced jet into combat.
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Disestablishment: VA-146 was disestablished on September 1, 1970, after 14 years of distinguished service.
