VC-7

• Origins and Designation: VC-7, originally designated as VJ-1, was established on December 4, 1942, and later redesignated as Composite Squadron Seven (VC-7) in 1943. • Primary Mission: VC-7’s main role was to provide target towing and simulated attack services for fleet gunnery training, helping surface ships and fighter squadrons practice live-fire exercises. • Nickname - "Tallyhoers": The squadron was nicknamed the “Tallyhoers,” a reference to the traditional call used by fighter pilots to announce sighting an enemy. • World War II Service: During WWII, VC-7 operated from various bases, including NAS Quonset Point, and provided essential training services to Atlantic Fleet units. • Postwar Innovations: After WWII, VC-7 pioneered the use of radio-controlled target drones, including the KD2R-1 (Shelduck) and other target aircraft, to simulate enemy planes and missiles. • Jet Era Transition: In the 1950s, VC-7 transitioned from propeller-driven aircraft like the TBM Avenger to jet aircraft such as the FJ-3 Fury and F9F-8 Cougar for high-speed target simulation. • Vietnam War Contribution: VC-7 played a key role in preparing Navy and Marine Corps aviators for combat in Vietnam by providing realistic air combat training. • Aircraft Variety: Over its history, VC-7 operated a wide range of aircraft, including the SNJ Texan, JD-1 Invader, FJ-4B Fury, and A-4 Skyhawk, reflecting its evolving mission. • Disestablishment: VC-7 was disestablished on September 1, 1980, after nearly four decades of service as the Navy’s premier target-towing and simulated attack squadron. • Legacy: The squadron’s legacy continues in the modern Navy’s adversary and training units, which trace their roots to the pioneering work done by VC-7 in improving fleet readiness and aircrew proficiency.