About this Unit
VF-124, also known as the "Gunfighters," was a United States Navy fighter squadron established in August 1948. Its primary mission throughout much of its history was as a Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS), responsible for training pilots and maintenance personnel for the F-8 Crusader and later the F-14 Tomcat. Based at NAS Miramar in California, VF-124 played a key role in preparing naval aviators for carrier operations during the Cold War era. The squadron was disestablished in 1994 following the retirement of the F-14 Tomcat from the Pacific Fleet.
Historical Facts
• Establishment: VF-124, known as the "Gunfighters," was established on 16 August 1948 as VF-53 before being redesignated as VF-124 in 1958.
• Role as a Fleet Replacement Squadron: VF-124 served primarily as the Pacific Fleet Replacement Squadron, responsible for training pilots and Radar Intercept Officers (RIOs) on the F-8 Crusader and later the F-14 Tomcat.
• F-8 Crusader Era: VF-124 was the last US Navy squadron to operate the F-8 Crusader, a legendary carrier-based fighter known as "The Last of the Gunfighters."
• Transition to the F-14 Tomcat: In October 1972, VF-124 transitioned to the F-14 Tomcat, becoming the west coast training squadron for this iconic aircraft.
• Nickname "Gunfighters": The nickname "Gunfighters" stems from their association with the F-8 Crusader, the last US Navy fighter designed with guns as its primary weapon.
• Training Mission: VF-124 trained thousands of pilots and RIOs for operational duty, providing crucial skills for carrier-based air combat operations.
• Notable Aircraft: VF-124 operated several variants of the F-14, including the F-14A and later the upgraded F-14D Super Tomcat.
• Disestablishment: VF-124 was disestablished on 30 September 1994 as the Navy began to retire the F-14 from service and consolidated training at VF-101 on the east coast.
• Hollywood Connection: VF-124 Tomcats and personnel were used as technical advisors and appeared in filming for the 1986 movie "Top Gun."
• Legacy and Honors: Despite its disestablishment, the legacy of VF-124 continues through the many aviators it trained and its iconic "Gunfighter" emblem, which remains well-recognized in naval aviation history.
