About this Unit
Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 117 (VAW-117), known as the "Wallbangers," was established on 1 July 1974. The squadron operates the E-2 Hawkeye aircraft, providing airborne early warning, battle management, and command and control for U.S. Navy carrier strike groups. VAW-117 has participated in numerous major operations, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. The unit has earned multiple commendations for its operational excellence and continues to serve as a critical component of naval aviation from its home base at Naval Base Ventura County, California.
Historical Facts
•
Nickname: VAW-117 is known as the "Wallbangers" (formerly "Nighthawks"), a distinctive callsign that reflects their round-the-clock vigilance in airborne early warning missions.
•
Established: The squadron was commissioned on July 1, 1974, at NAS Miramar, California, to meet the need for advanced airborne early warning capabilities.
•
E-2 Hawkeye Operators: VAW-117 has operated several variants of the E-2 Hawkeye, a twin-turboprop airborne early warning and control aircraft, and is currently flying the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye.
•
Carrier Assignments: VAW-117 has deployed on multiple aircraft carriers, including USS Nimitz (CVN-68), USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72), and USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70).
•
Combat Operations: The squadron has participated in major operations such as Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom, providing critical command and control.
•
Humanitarian Missions: In addition to combat, VAW-117 has supported humanitarian missions, including disaster relief operations after the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.
•
Awards: VAW-117 has earned multiple commendations, including the Battle "E" (Efficiency) Award, recognizing its operational excellence and superior performance.
•
Home Base: The squadron is currently based at Naval Base Ventura County, Point Mugu, California, where it conducts training and prepares for deployments.
•
24-Hour Operations: The "Wallbangers" are known for their around-the-clock operations, often launching and recovering aircraft day and night to maintain airspace surveillance and command.
•
Historical Firsts: VAW-117 was among the first squadrons to deploy the upgraded E-2C Hawkeye 2000, enhancing the Navy's radar and battle management capabilities.
