VA-42

• Establishment: Attack Squadron 42 (VA-42), known as the "Green Pawns," was established on 1 September 1950, during the Korean War buildup. • Primary Role: VA-42 served as a fleet replacement squadron, responsible for training pilots and maintenance personnel for carrier-based attack aircraft. • First Aircraft: The squadron was initially equipped with the Douglas AD Skyraider, a powerful piston-engine attack aircraft renowned for its toughness and firepower. • Transition to Jets: VA-42 transitioned to the A-6 Intruder in 1963, playing a key role in introducing and training Navy crews on this advanced, all-weather attack jet. • Symbolic Insignia: The "Green Pawn" insignia was adopted in reference to the squadron’s role in “training” new personnel—pawns are often the first pieces moved in chess, symbolizing the start of a journey. • Vietnam War Impact: Though not deployed as a combat squadron, VA-42 trained hundreds of A-6 crews who later served with distinction in the Vietnam War. • Record Holder: At its peak, VA-42 was one of the largest squadrons in the U.S. Navy, with over 1,300 personnel and more than 50 aircraft on its roster in the 1960s. • Home Base: VA-42 was primarily based at Naval Air Station Oceana, Virginia, but also operated out of Naval Air Station Norfolk and Naval Air Station Cherry Point at different times. • Lasting Legacy: VA-42 was the first U.S. Navy squadron to receive the A-6E model, training generations of crews until its disestablishment in 1994. • Disestablishment: After 44 years of service, VA-42 was officially disestablished on 30 September 1994, marking the end of an era in naval aviation training.