VA-146

• Establishment: Attack Squadron 146 (VA-146), nicknamed the "Blue Diamonds," was established on February 1, 1956. • 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). • Cuban Missile Crisis: VA-146 participated in the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, serving on the USS Constellation during the tense standoff. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • Nickname Meaning: The "Blue Diamonds" nickname reflected both the squadron’s blue tail markings and its reputation for precision. • 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. • Disestablishment: VA-146 was disestablished on September 1, 1970, after 14 years of distinguished service.