VF-2

• VF-2, the "Bounty Hunters": Fighter Squadron 2 (VF-2), nicknamed the "Bounty Hunters," is a famous U.S. Navy fighter squadron first established in June 1972. • F-14 Tomcat Pioneers: VF-2 was one of the first squadrons to fly the legendary Grumman F-14 Tomcat, receiving its first aircraft in 1973. • Combat Debut in Operation Frequent Wind: VF-2 saw its first combat action during Operation Frequent Wind, the evacuation of Saigon in 1975, providing air cover for U.S. forces. • Iran Hostage Crisis: In 1980, VF-2 deployed aboard USS Ranger to the Indian Ocean in response to the Iran Hostage Crisis, demonstrating U.S. naval power and readiness. • Operation Desert Storm: VF-2 participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, flying combat missions over Iraq and providing air superiority for coalition forces. • Record-Setting Deployment: During its 1974-1975 deployment on USS Enterprise, VF-2 set a record by flying over 1,400 hours in a single month—an impressive feat for carrier-based aviation. • Hollywood Fame: VF-2 and its F-14s appeared in the movie The Final Countdown (1980), which featured the USS Nimitz, bringing attention to naval aviation. • Transition to F/A-18F Super Hornet: In 2003, VF-2 was redesignated as VFA-2 and transitioned to the F/A-18F Super Hornet, continuing its legacy as a multirole strike fighter squadron. • Notable Insignia: The squadron’s insignia—a skull and crossbones—pays homage to the famous "Jolly Rogers," but with its own unique "Bounty Hunters" identity. • Long-Standing Excellence: VF-2 has earned numerous awards, including the prestigious Battle "E" for battle efficiency and safety awards, attesting to its professionalism and combat effectiveness.