VA-52

• Establishment: Attack Squadron 52 (VA-52), known as the "Knightriders," was originally established as VT-3B in May 1949, later redesignated as VA-52 in 1959. • Korean War Service: The squadron saw significant action during the Korean War, conducting combat missions in support of United Nations forces. • Nickname: The squadron earned the nickname “Knightriders” due to their reputation for flying night attack missions, often under challenging conditions. • Aircraft Evolution: VA-52 operated a wide variety of aircraft over its history, including the AD Skyraider, A-6 Intruder, and A-1 Skyraider, demonstrating adaptability to evolving technology. • Vietnam War Operations: The squadron participated in numerous combat deployments during the Vietnam War, flying from aircraft carriers like USS Ticonderoga and USS Coral Sea. • Operation Praying Mantis: VA-52 was involved in Operation Praying Mantis in 1988, the largest surface naval battle since World War II, retaliating against Iranian forces in the Persian Gulf. • Decorations: The squadron earned multiple unit citations and commendations, including the Navy Unit Commendation and Meritorious Unit Commendation for its combat performance. • Final Years and Disestablishment: VA-52 continued service through the late Cold War, supporting operations in the Pacific and Indian Oceans, before being disestablished in March 1995. • Carrier Deployments: The Knightriders regularly deployed aboard various aircraft carriers, including the USS Kitty Hawk, USS Ranger, and USS Constellation, projecting US naval power globally. • Legacy: VA-52’s legacy lives on through its veterans and the impact it made in naval aviation, with its insignia and stories preserved in naval museums and records.