About this Unit
Attack Squadron 195 (VA-195), also known as the "Dambusters," was a distinguished U.S. Navy attack squadron established in 1943. It earned its nickname during the Korean War after a daring 1951 raid that destroyed the heavily defended Hwachon Dam using precision bombing from AD Skyraider aircraft. Throughout its service, VA-195 participated in numerous combat operations, including World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, flying a variety of attack aircraft. The squadron was redesignated as VFA-195 in 1985, transitioning to flying F/A-18 Hornets and continuing its legacy as a premier strike fighter squadron in the Pacific Fleet.
Historical Facts
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Establishment: VA-195, originally designated as Torpedo Squadron 19 (VT-19), was established on August 15, 1943, during World War II.
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Nickname: The squadron was famously known as the “Dambusters,” a name adopted after their notable attack on the Hwacheon Dam during the Korean War.
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Hwacheon Dam Attack: On May 1, 1951, VA-195 executed a daring low-level attack destroying the floodgates of the Hwacheon Dam in North Korea, preventing the flooding of UN positions—a feat that earned the squadron its legendary nickname.
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Aircraft Evolution: VA-195 operated a variety of aircraft throughout its history, including the TBF Avenger, AD Skyraider, A-4 Skyhawk, and A-7 Corsair II, adapting to the changing roles of naval aviation.
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Korean War Service: VA-195 flew more combat missions during the Korean War than any other attack squadron, contributing significantly to the United Nations’ air campaign.
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Decorations: The squadron received multiple awards for its valor, including the Presidential Unit Citation and Navy Unit Commendation for its operations in Korea and Vietnam.
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Vietnam War Operations: VA-195 participated in numerous combat deployments during the Vietnam War, conducting strikes against enemy targets and providing close air support for ground forces.
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Final Years and Disestablishment: The squadron was disestablished on March 31, 1987, after more than four decades of distinguished service.
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Legacy and Heritage: The “Dambusters” name and traditions were carried on by VFA-195, a strike fighter squadron flying the F/A-18 Hornet and later the F/A-18E Super Hornet.
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Popular Culture: The squadron’s exploits, especially the Hwacheon Dam raid, have been featured in books, documentaries, and are still celebrated in U.S. Navy history.
