VF-124

• 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.