VAH-11

• Establishment: Heavy Attack Squadron 11 (VAH-11), nicknamed the “Checkmates,” was established on 1 February 1958 at Naval Air Station Sanford, Florida. • Aircraft Operated: VAH-11 initially flew the North American AJ Savage before transitioning to the Douglas A-3 Skywarrior, one of the largest and heaviest carrier-based aircraft ever built. • Cuban Missile Crisis: During the Cuban Missile Crisis in October 1962, VAH-11 played a crucial reconnaissance and readiness role, with its A-3 crews on high alert for potential nuclear strike missions. • Vietnam War Service: The squadron deployed several times to the Vietnam War, primarily providing aerial refueling and electronic warfare support for carrier air wings. • Carrier Deployments: VAH-11 operated from several aircraft carriers, including USS Forrestal (CV-59), USS Saratoga (CV-60), and USS Independence (CV-62), showcasing its flexibility and strategic importance. • Nickname Origin: The squadron’s nickname, “Checkmates,” was derived from the chessboard-like tail markings painted on their aircraft. • Home Bases: VAH-11 was originally based at NAS Sanford but later moved to NAS Jacksonville and finally NAS Key West, adapting to changing Navy operational needs. • Transition and Disestablishment: In 1968, as the Navy phased out the A-3 Skywarrior in the heavy attack role, VAH-11 was disestablished on 1 October 1968, marking the end of a decade-long operational history. • Notable Missions: VAH-11 crews were involved in some of the earliest aerial refueling missions, extending the reach and endurance of Navy strike aircraft during critical Cold War operations. • Legacy: Although VAH-11 was short-lived, the squadron’s traditions and operational lessons contributed to the development of subsequent Navy heavy attack and electronic warfare units, such as VAQ and VQ squadrons.