About this Unit
VF-92, known as the "Silver Kings," was a United States Navy fighter squadron established in March 1952. The unit operated various aircraft, including the F2H Banshee, F9F Panther, and later the F-4 Phantom II. VF-92 participated in numerous deployments, including significant combat operations during the Vietnam War, flying from aircraft carriers such as USS Constellation and USS Enterprise. The squadron was disestablished in January 1976, leaving a distinguished legacy in naval aviation history.
Historical Facts
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VF-92 Designation: The squadron known as VF-92 was officially designated as Fighter Squadron 92, part of the United States Navy.
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Nickname "Silver Kings": VF-92 was popularly known as the "Silver Kings" due to their distinctive squadron insignia and markings.
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Establishment: VF-92 was established on March 24, 1952, during the early Cold War period.
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Carrier Assignments: The squadron served on several aircraft carriers, notably the USS Midway (CV-41) and USS Constellation (CV-64), participating in major deployments.
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Aircraft Flown: VF-92 operated several iconic Navy fighter aircraft, including the F2H Banshee, F9F Cougar, F-4 Phantom II, and the F-8 Crusader.
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Vietnam War Service: The squadron saw extensive combat action during the Vietnam War, flying the F-4 Phantom II in air-to-air and air-to-ground missions.
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MiG Encounters: VF-92 pilots engaged in dogfights with North Vietnamese MiG fighter aircraft, contributing to the U.S. Navy’s air superiority efforts.
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Notable Engagements: On May 18, 1972, VF-92 scored a significant aerial victory when one of its F-4 Phantom II crews shot down a North Vietnamese MiG-21.
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Squadron Disestablishment: VF-92 was disestablished on January 12, 1976, following post-Vietnam War force reductions.
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Legacy: The heritage and traditions of VF-92 live on through reunions, and the squadron’s history is preserved in U.S. naval aviation archives and museums.