VA145

• Establishment: VA-145, known as the "Swordsmen," was established on July 1, 1949, as Reserve Attack Squadron VA-702, and redesignated as VA-145 in February 1953. • Korean War Service: The squadron was activated for the Korean War, conducting combat operations from the USS Boxer (CV-21) and USS Princeton (CV-37). • Vietnam War Deployments: VA-145 made multiple combat deployments to Vietnam, flying A-1 Skyraiders and later A-6 Intruders, and was heavily involved in Operation Rolling Thunder and Linebacker missions. • Nickname and Insignia: The squadron’s nickname was the "Swordsmen," and its insignia depicted a knight’s helmet and crossed swords, symbolizing valor and readiness. • First with A-6A Intruder: VA-145 was among the first squadrons to receive the Grumman A-6A Intruder, a cutting-edge, all-weather attack aircraft at the time. • Operation Praying Mantis: In 1988, VA-145 participated in Operation Praying Mantis, the largest naval surface engagement since World War II, striking Iranian naval targets in the Persian Gulf. • Cold War Operations: The unit conducted regular patrols and participated in major naval exercises across the Pacific, Indian Ocean, and Mediterranean, supporting US interests during the Cold War. • Home Ports: The squadron was primarily based at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington, a key base for US Navy attack aircraft on the West Coast. • Aircraft Operated: Over its history, VA-145 flew a variety of aircraft including the F6F Hellcat, F4U Corsair, AD Skyraider, and A-6 Intruder. • Deactivation: After almost 44 years of service, VA-145 was disestablished on April 30, 1993, as part of post-Cold War force reductions.