VAW-123

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Branch

U.S. Navy

Members

About VAW-123

Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 123 (VAW-123), known as the "Screwtops," was established in 1967. As part of the U.S. Navy, the squadron operates the E-2 Hawkeye aircraft, providing airborne early warning and battle management for carrier strike groups. VAW-123 has supported major operations including Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, earning numerous awards for its operational excellence. The squadron continues to play a critical role in surveillance, command and control, and maritime security missions worldwide.

Unit Members

Kirk Bosser

U.S. Navy

VAW-123View Profile

Jeff Elman

U.S. Navy

VAW-123View Profile

Photos

David Winchel

U.S. Navy

About VAW-123

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Establishment: Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 123 (VAW-123), known as the "Screwtops," was established on April 1, 1967. • Nickname Origin: The squadron's nickname, "Screwtops," refers to the distinctive rotating radar dome ("top") mounted on the E-2 Hawkeye aircraft, resembling a screw top. • Aircraft Operated: VAW-123 has operated the E-2 Hawkeye series since its inception, including the E-2A, E-2B, E-2C, and currently the advanced E-2D Advanced Hawkeye. • Vietnam War Service: The squadron participated in combat operations during the Vietnam War, providing airborne early warning and control for naval air strikes. • Operation Desert Storm: VAW-123 was deployed aboard USS America (CV-66) and provided critical airborne command and control during Operation Desert Storm in 1991. • 9/11 Response: Following the September 11, 2001 attacks, VAW-123 was among the first squadrons to provide airborne surveillance and control over the East Coast of the United States. • Global War on Terror: The squadron supported Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, flying missions in support of coalition forces in Afghanistan and Iraq. • Award Recognition: VAW-123 has received multiple awards for excellence, including the Battle "E" (Efficiency) Award, the Safety "S" Award, and the Commander Naval Air Forces Aviation Battle Efficiency Award. • Carrier Deployments: The squadron has completed numerous deployments aboard U.S. Navy aircraft carriers, including USS Enterprise (CVN-65), USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69), and USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78). • Modernization: In recent years, VAW-123 has transitioned to the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, significantly enhancing the Navy’s capability for airborne early warning, battle management, and command and control.