VF-32

• 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. • Korean War Service: VF-32 flew the F4U Corsair during the Korean War, conducting combat missions from the USS Leyte (CV-32). • 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. • Transition to Jets: In the 1950s, VF-32 transitioned from propeller-driven aircraft to jets, flying the F9F Panther and later the F8U Crusader. • 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). • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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.