About this Unit
Strike Fighter Squadron 32 (VF-32), known as the "Swordsmen," was established in 1945 and has a storied history within U.S. Naval Aviation. The squadron saw action during the Korean War, flying F4U Corsairs, and later played significant roles in the Vietnam War with F-4 Phantom IIs. VF-32 gained acclaim in 1989 when its F-14 Tomcats shot down two Libyan MiG-23s during the Gulf of Sidra incident. In 1994, the squadron was redesignated as VFA-32, transitioning to the F/A-18F Super Hornet and continuing its legacy of excellence in modern naval operations.
Historical Facts
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Long Heritage: VF-32, also known as the "Swordsmen," was originally established as VF-3B in 1945 and redesignated as VF-32 in 1948, giving it a distinguished post-World War II lineage.
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Korean War Service: VF-32 flew the F4U Corsair during the Korean War, conducting combat missions from the USS Leyte (CV-32).
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First MiG Kill by an African-American Naval Aviator: In 1950, Ensign Jesse L. Brown, the first African-American naval aviator, served with VF-32. His wingman, Lt. (jg) Thomas Hudner, was awarded the Medal of Honor for attempting to rescue Brown after he was shot down.
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Transition to Jets: In the 1950s, VF-32 transitioned from propeller-driven aircraft to jets, flying the F9F Panther and later the F8U Crusader.
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Vietnam War Deployments: VF-32 operated the F-4 Phantom II during the Vietnam War, participating in several deployments aboard the USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67).
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F-14 Tomcat Legacy: In 1974, VF-32 became one of the first squadrons to receive the F-14A Tomcat and earned fame for its proficiency with the aircraft.
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Operation El Dorado Canyon: In 1986, VF-32 flew combat air patrols in support of the U.S. air strike against Libya, providing air defense for the strike group.
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Gulf War Success: During Operation Desert Storm in 1991, VF-32 flew the F-14A Tomcat from the USS John F. Kennedy, helping enforce the no-fly zone over Iraq and providing air superiority.
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First Combat Use of AIM-54 Phoenix: VF-32 is credited with the first and only combat use of the AIM-54 Phoenix missile, engaging Iraqi aircraft during Operation Desert Storm.
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Deactivation and Redesignation: VF-32 was redesignated as VFA-32 in 2005 when it transitioned to the F/A-18F Super Hornet, continuing its legacy as a premier strike fighter squadron.
