VF-213

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Branch

U.S. Navy

Members

About VF-213

VF-213, known as the "Black Lions," was a distinguished U.S. Navy fighter squadron established in 1955. Initially flying the F2H Banshee, the squadron later transitioned through several aircraft, including the F-4 Phantom II and the iconic F-14 Tomcat, becoming renowned for its operational excellence. VF-213 participated in numerous deployments, including combat operations during the Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. In 2006, the squadron transitioned to the F/A-18F Super Hornet and was redesignated as VFA-213, continuing its legacy as a premier naval strike fighter squadron.

Unit Members

Lawrence Nolan

U.S. Navy

VF-213View Profile

Richard Gildea

U.S. Navy

VF-213View Profile

Photos

U.S. Navy • 1972

About VF-213

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Squadron Nickname: VF-213 is famously known as the "Blacklions." • Date of Establishment: The squadron was established on June 22, 1955. • Aircraft Legacy: VF-213 has flown a variety of aircraft, including the F2H Banshee, F4D Skyray, F3H Demon, F-4 Phantom II, the iconic F-14 Tomcat, and later the F/A-18F Super Hornet. • Last Tomcat Squadron: VF-213, along with VF-31, was one of the last two squadrons to operate the F-14 Tomcat, retiring the aircraft in 2006. • OIF and OEF Deployments: VF-213 saw extensive combat action in both Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, conducting numerous strike missions from aircraft carriers in the Persian Gulf. • Sundown Cruise: The “Sundown Cruise” in 2005-2006 marked VF-213’s final deployment with the F-14 Tomcat aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71). • Transition to VFA-213: After retiring the F-14, VF-213 was redesignated VFA-213 and transitioned to the F/A-18F Super Hornet, continuing its operational legacy as a strike fighter squadron. • Distinctive Insignia: The squadron's emblem features a black lion on a yellow field, symbolizing strength and courage. • Hollywood Connection: VF-213 and its aircraft have appeared in several documentaries and have been referenced in pop culture due to their association with the legendary F-14 Tomcat. • Carrier Assignments: Over its history, VF-213 has deployed on numerous aircraft carriers, including USS Kitty Hawk, USS America, USS Enterprise, and USS Theodore Roosevelt.