Va 44

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Branch

U.S. Navy

Members

About Va 44

Attack Squadron 44 (VA-44), known as the “Hornets,” was a United States Navy attack squadron established in September 1950. Initially flying the F4U Corsair, the squadron later transitioned to jet aircraft, including the F9F Panther and FJ Fury. VA-44 primarily served as a fleet replacement training squadron, responsible for preparing naval aviators and maintenance personnel for carrier-based attack operations. The unit was based at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Florida, until its disestablishment on 1 May 1970.

Unit Members

Warren Schenewerk

U.S. Navy

Va 44View Profile

Merton Austin

U.S. Navy

Va 44View Profile

Photos

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

About Va 44

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Squadron VA-44 Designation: Attack Squadron 44 (VA-44), also known as the "Hornets," was a U.S. Navy attack squadron established in 1950. • Multiple Designations: The designation VA-44 was actually used by three different U.S. Navy squadrons over time, with the last iteration being the most famous. • Korean War Service: The original VA-44 participated in combat operations during the Korean War, flying Skyraider attack aircraft. • Aircraft Transition: VA-44 operated several aircraft types during its existence, including the F4U Corsair, F9F Panther, and A-4 Skyhawk. • Fleet Replacement Squadron: In 1958, VA-44 was redesignated as a Fleet Replacement Squadron, responsible for training new pilots and maintenance crews. • Homeport: The squadron was based at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Florida, for much of its later history. • Nickname "Hornets": VA-44 was known as the "Hornets," a name reflected in its squadron insignia featuring a stylized hornet. • Training Mission: At its peak, VA-44 trained hundreds of pilots and thousands of maintenance personnel for the A-4 Skyhawk. • Deactivation: VA-44 was disestablished on May 1, 1970, as part of a reorganization of Navy training squadrons. • Legacy: Many naval aviators who served in Vietnam and later conflicts were initially trained by VA-44, cementing its legacy in naval aviation history.