VA-66

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Branch

U.S. Navy

Members

About VA-66

Attack Squadron 66 (VA-66), known as the "Waldos," was a United States Navy attack squadron established in July 1955. Initially flying the F9F-8 Cougar, the squadron later transitioned to the A-4 Skyhawk and ultimately to the A-7E Corsair II. VA-66 participated in several key operations, including deployments during the Vietnam War, the Yom Kippur War, and significant actions in the Mediterranean, such as the 1986 strikes against Libya (Operation El Dorado Canyon). The squadron was disestablished on March 31, 1992, following the end of the Cold War and post-Desert Storm force reductions.

Unit Members

Richard Glasgow

U.S. Navy

VA-66View Profile

Edward Smith

U.S. Navy

VA-66View 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-66

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Establishment and Nickname: Attack Squadron 66 (VA-66), known as the “Waldos,” was established on 1 July 1955, and was originally designated as Fighter Squadron VF-81A. • Multiple Redesignations: The squadron went through several redesignations: from VF-81A to VF-66 in 1959, and then to VA-66 (Attack Squadron) in 1961, reflecting changing roles and missions. • Aircraft Evolution: VA-66 operated several aircraft types during its history, including F9F-8B Cougar, F8U-2 Crusader, A-4 Skyhawk, and the famous A-7 Corsair II. • Cuban Missile Crisis: The squadron participated in the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, embarking on the USS Enterprise (CVN-65) as part of the U.S. naval blockade. • Vietnam War Deployments: VA-66 made multiple deployments to Southeast Asia, flying combat missions from the decks of various aircraft carriers during the Vietnam War. • Operation El Dorado Canyon: In April 1986, VA-66 participated in the U.S. air strike against Libya, flying A-7E Corsair IIs from the USS America (CV-66) during Operation El Dorado Canyon. • Libyan Gulf of Sidra Incidents: The squadron was involved in freedom of navigation operations and skirmishes with Libyan forces in the Gulf of Sidra in the 1980s. • Home Base: VA-66 was primarily based at Naval Air Station Cecil Field, Florida, a major hub for East Coast attack squadrons. • Disestablishment: The squadron was disestablished on 1 April 1992, following the end of the Cold War and a general reduction in naval forces. • Squadron Insignia: VA-66’s insignia featured a stylized, cartoonish "Waldo" character, reflecting the squadron’s unique identity and camaraderie.