About this Unit
Strike Fighter Squadron 211 (VF-211), known as the "Fighting Checkmates," was originally established in 1945 as VF-24 before being redesignated as VF-211 in 1948. The squadron distinguished itself during the Korean War and the Vietnam War, flying F-8 Crusaders and later F-14 Tomcats in combat operations from aircraft carriers. Over its history, VF-211 earned numerous commendations for its combat effectiveness and professionalism. In 2003, the unit was redesignated as VFA-211 and transitioned to the F/A-18F Super Hornet, continuing its legacy as a premier carrier-based strike fighter squadron in the U.S. Navy.
Historical Facts
•
Origins as a Fighter Squadron: VF-211 was originally established as VF-24 in 1945, but was redesignated as VF-211 ("Fighting Checkmates") in 1948, flying F8F Bearcats.
•
Korean War Service: VF-211 flew F9F-2 Panthers and F9F-4 Panthers from USS Boxer and USS Lake Champlain, completing 1,362 combat missions during the Korean War.
•
Vietnam War Deployments: The squadron flew F-8 Crusaders and later F-4 Phantoms, participating in numerous Vietnam War deployments from various aircraft carriers.
•
Aces Among Their Ranks: VF-211’s pilots scored air-to-air victories in Korea and Vietnam, with several becoming aces, including Lt. Royce Williams, who shot down four MiG-15s in a single engagement.
•
Transition to Tomcats: In 1975, VF-211 transitioned to the F-14 Tomcat, becoming one of the most recognized and longest serving Tomcat squadrons in the US Navy.
•
Historic Deployments: VF-211 took part in Operations Desert Storm, Southern Watch, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, flying from carriers like USS Nimitz and USS Theodore Roosevelt.
•
Nickname and Insignia: Known as the "Fighting Checkmates," VF-211’s tail insignia featured a red and white checkerboard pattern, one of the most distinctive in naval aviation.
•
Final F-14 Cruise: VF-211 completed the last operational deployment of the F-14 Tomcat in 2004, marking the end of the Tomcat’s era in the US Navy.
•
Transition to Strike Fighter Squadron: In 2005, VF-211 was redesignated as VFA-211 and transitioned to the F/A-18 Super Hornet, continuing its legacy as a frontline strike fighter squadron.
•
Hollywood Connection: VF-211 and its F-14 Tomcats were featured in several documentaries and aviation books, and the squadron’s exploits contributed to the legendary status of the Tomcat in popular culture.
