VA-172

Attack Squadron 172 (VA-172), known as the "Blue Bolts," was a United States Navy attack squadron established in August 1945 as VBF-82. The squadron was redesignated VA-172 in August 1948. VA-172 served with distinction during the Korean War, flying the F2H Banshee and later the A-4 Skyhawk on numerous combat missions from aircraft carriers. The squadron participated in several major deployments in the Atlantic and Mediterranean, supporting U.S. interests during the Cold War. VA-172 was disestablished on January 15, 1971, after more than 25 years of service.