VA861, NAS, NORVA

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Branch

U.S. Navy

Members

About VA861, NAS, NORVA

Attack Squadron 861 (VA-861) was a United States Navy Reserve attack squadron based at Naval Air Station Norfolk (NAS NORVA), Virginia. Established during the Cold War era, the squadron flew various attack aircraft, including the A-4 Skyhawk, as part of the Naval Air Reserve Force. VA-861 supported fleet readiness through training and participated in numerous exercises and operational deployments. The squadron contributed to the Navy's ability to rapidly augment active forces during crises before its eventual deactivation as part of reserve force restructuring.

Unit Members

Heath Farmer

U.S. Navy (1965-1971)

VA861, NAS, NORVAView 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 VA861, NAS, NORVA

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Squadron Designation: VA-861 was a Naval Reserve Attack Squadron, part of the U.S. Naval Air Reserve Force during the Cold War era. • NAS NORVA: "NAS, NORVA" refers to Naval Air Station Norfolk, Virginia, the home base for VA-861 during its operational period. • Aircraft Operated: VA-861 primarily flew the A-4 Skyhawk, a carrier-capable attack aircraft renowned for its agility and versatility. • Reserve Role: As a reserve squadron, VA-861 provided trained aviators and personnel ready to augment the active fleet during national emergencies. • Cold War Context: VA-861 operated during a period when reserve squadrons played a vital role in U.S. homeland defense and overseas contingency planning. • Weekend Warriors: Like other reserve units, VA-861's members balanced civilian careers with military service, conducting regular drills and annual training. • Community Impact: The squadron contributed to the local Norfolk community, with many members living in the Hampton Roads area and participating in outreach programs. • Deactivation: VA-861 was eventually disestablished as part of post-Vietnam military reductions and restructuring within the Naval Air Reserve. • Legacy Aircraft: Some A-4 Skyhawks formerly assigned to VA-861 have since been preserved in museums or used as training aircraft for other military branches. • Unit Insignia: VA-861 had its own unique patch and squadron insignia, reflecting its identity and esprit de corps within the Naval Reserve aviation community.