About this Unit
Fighter Squadron 24 (VF-24), known as the "Fighting Renegades," was a United States Navy fighter squadron established in 1943 during World War II. Originally designated as VF-24, it underwent several redesignations and operated various aircraft, including the F6F Hellcat, F8F Bearcat, F3H Demon, F-8 Crusader, and ultimately the F-14 Tomcat. VF-24 saw significant action in the Vietnam War, conducting combat deployments from aircraft carriers and earning multiple commendations for its performance. The squadron was disestablished in 1996, concluding over five decades of distinguished service in naval aviation history.
Historical Facts
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Origins in WWII: VF-24 traces its lineage back to World War II, originally established as VF-23 in May 1943 before multiple redesignations, eventually becoming VF-24 in 1959.
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Nicknamed the "Fighting Renegades": The squadron was known as the "Fighting Renegades" and later as the "Checkertails," reflected in their distinctive squadron insignia.
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Korean War Service: Prior to its VF-24 designation, the squadron participated in the Korean War, flying F4U Corsairs and later F9F Panthers, marking its transition into jet-powered aircraft.
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Vietnam War Deployments: As VF-24, the squadron flew F-8 Crusaders and F-4 Phantoms during the Vietnam War, completing several combat deployments from aircraft carriers such as USS Bon Homme Richard and USS Hancock.
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Ace Pilot: During the Vietnam War, Lieutenant (JG) William C. McGuigan of VF-24 became an ace, credited with five confirmed MiG kills, one of the few US Navy pilots to achieve this status in Vietnam.
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Transition to F-14 Tomcat: In late 1975, VF-24 transitioned to the F-14A Tomcat, becoming one of the early squadrons to operate the iconic swing-wing fighter.
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Mediterranean and Pacific Operations: VF-24 participated in numerous peacetime and crisis deployments, including Mediterranean cruises and operations in the Western Pacific, supporting US interests during the Cold War.
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Libyan Operations: In the 1980s, VF-24 took part in operations in the Gulf of Sidra, including confrontations with Libyan aircraft, as part of the US Navy's Freedom of Navigation exercises.
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Gulf War Service: During Operation Desert Storm in 1991, VF-24 deployed aboard USS Nimitz, flying combat air patrols and escort missions with the F-14A Tomcat.
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Deactivation: VF-24 was disestablished on August 1, 1996, after over five decades of service, as part of post-Cold War reductions in US Navy carrier air wings.
