VF-102

Relive and share the memories of your service-time with your brothers and sisters in arms today. VetFriends.com can help you reconnect.

Did you proudly serve in the VF-102?

Are you looking for someone who is or was in the VF-102?

Do you have VF-102 photos you'd like to share?

Then join a community with your brothers and sisters of the VF-102.

Branch

U.S. Navy

Members

About VF-102

Strike Fighter Squadron 102 (VF-102), known as the "Diamondbacks," is a distinguished U.S. Navy aviation unit established in 1955. Originally flying the F2H Banshee, the squadron transitioned through several aircraft, including the F-4 Phantom II and the F-14 Tomcat, before being redesignated as VFA-102 with the adoption of the F/A-18F Super Hornet in 2002. VF-102 has participated in numerous operations, including deployments during the Cold War, Operation Desert Storm, and Operation Enduring Freedom. Throughout its history, the Diamondbacks have earned a reputation for operational excellence and adaptability in carrier-based strike fighter missions.

Unit Members

Steven Buritsch

U.S. Navy

VF-102View Profile

Arthur Huge

U.S. Navy

VF-102View Profile

Photos

X-mas 1967

U.S. Marine Corps • 1967

Rudy Molina

U.S. Marine Corps • 1967

Ready for night patrol in Cua Viet

U.S. Marine Corps • 1967

Ten Marine scout unit in Cua Viet

U.S. Marine Corps • 1967

About VF-102

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins and Nickname: VF-102, known as the "Diamondbacks," was established in 1955 as a U.S. Navy fighter squadron. • Aircraft Evolution: The squadron flew several notable aircraft, including the F2H Banshee, F4D Skyray, F-4 Phantom II, and finally the iconic F-14 Tomcat. • Cuban Missile Crisis: VF-102 participated in the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, providing air cover during the naval blockade. • Vietnam War Service: The squadron deployed to the Vietnam War aboard USS America (CV-66), flying combat missions in the late 1960s. • First to Deploy F-14B: VF-102 was the first Atlantic Fleet squadron to operate the upgraded F-14B Tomcat in the 1990s. • Operation Desert Storm: VF-102 flew combat sorties from the USS America in the Gulf War, providing escort, reconnaissance, and strike missions. • Diamondback Livery: The squadron’s F-14s were famous for their striking red and white diamondback snake paint scheme on the vertical stabilizers. • Final F-14 Cruise: VF-102 completed its last Tomcat deployment in 2002 before transitioning to the F/A-18F Super Hornet and being redesignated as VFA-102. • Homage in Media: VF-102 was featured in Tom Clancy’s novel "Red Storm Rising," showcasing their reputation among military fiction fans. • Legacy Continues: As VFA-102, the squadron continues its service today, flying the F/A-18F Super Hornet out of Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan, maintaining the Diamondbacks’ proud heritage.