VA-164 Ghostriders

• Establishment: VA-164 "Ghostriders" was established on September 1, 1960, at NAS Cecil Field, Florida, as an attack squadron in the U.S. Navy. • Nickname Origin: The squadron adopted the nickname "Ghostriders," often symbolized by a spectral knight riding a white horse, reflecting their swift and stealthy attack capabilities. • Aircraft Flown: Over its history, VA-164 operated several aircraft, most notably the Douglas A-4 Skyhawk series, including the A-4E and A-4F models. • Vietnam War Service: The Ghostriders deployed multiple times to Vietnam, participating in combat operations from 1965 to 1973, flying thousands of sorties in support of ground forces. • USS Oriskany Fire: VA-164 was aboard USS Oriskany during the tragic fire on October 26, 1966, which claimed the lives of 44 men, including members of the squadron. • Distinguished Pilots: LCDR John McCain, later U.S. Senator and presidential candidate, flew with VA-164 and was shot down over Hanoi in 1967, becoming a POW. • Decorations: The squadron received numerous awards, including the Navy Unit Commendation and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal for its service in Southeast Asia. • Unique Markings: VA-164's aircraft were known for their distinctive "Ghostrider" insignia, featuring a white ghostly knight on a horse, often painted on the aircraft tail. • Disestablishment: After 14 years of service, VA-164 was officially disestablished on December 12, 1975, as part of post-Vietnam War reductions. • Legacy: The Ghostriders’ legacy is honored by veterans’ groups and in naval aviation history, with their contributions during the Vietnam War remaining a point of pride in naval heritage.