About this Unit
Attack Squadron 304 (VA-304), known as the “Firebirds,” was a U.S. Navy Reserve attack squadron established on July 1, 1970. Based at Naval Air Station Alameda, California, VA-304 flew the A-4 Skyhawk before transitioning to the A-7 Corsair II and later the A-6 Intruder. The squadron participated in numerous training exercises and provided vital support for carrier air wing operations during peacetime. VA-304 was disestablished on December 31, 1994, as part of post-Cold War force reductions.
Historical Facts
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Establishment: VA-304, also known as "The Firebirds," was established on July 1, 1970, as part of the U.S. Navy Reserve's expansion of its attack squadrons.
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Reserve Squadron: VA-304 served as a reserve squadron under the Fleet Air Reserve, providing a vital link between active and reserve naval aviation communities.
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Home Base: The squadron was based at Naval Air Station (NAS) Alameda, California, placing it strategically on the West Coast.
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Aircraft Operated: Over its history, VA-304 flew several aircraft models, including the A-4C/E Skyhawk, A-7A/B/C/E Corsair II, and eventually the A-6E Intruder.
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Nickname and Insignia: The squadron's nickname, "Firebirds," was reflected in its distinctive insignia featuring a red and orange bird with flames.
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Cold War Role: Though never deployed in combat, VA-304 played a crucial role in the Cold War, maintaining readiness for potential conflicts and augmenting the active fleet.
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Disaster Response: Members of VA-304 participated in humanitarian and disaster relief missions, including earthquake and flood response in California.
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Transition to Intruder: In 1988, the squadron transitioned to the A-6E Intruder, making it one of the few reserve squadrons to operate this advanced all-weather attack aircraft.
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Deactivation: VA-304 was deactivated on December 31, 1994, following post-Cold War defense cutbacks and restructuring of the Navy Reserve.
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Legacy: The legacy of VA-304 includes its contributions to Navy Reserve aviation, its high level of readiness, and its service as a training platform for both reserve and active-duty personnel.
