VF-96

• Squadron Designation: VF-96, also known as the "Fighting Falcons," was a US Navy fighter squadron established in 1950 and redesignated several times before being disestablished in 1975. • Carrier Deployments: VF-96 was assigned to several aircraft carriers, including the USS Constellation (CV-64) and USS Enterprise (CVN-65), playing key roles during the Vietnam War. • F-4 Phantom II Operators: The squadron is best known for flying the McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II, a versatile and powerful carrier-based fighter. • MiG Killers: VF-96 achieved fame for its air-to-air combat successes, especially on May 10, 1972, when its pilots shot down three North Vietnamese MiG-17s and MiG-21s in a single day. • Randy "Duke" Cunningham and Willie Driscoll: The squadron was home to Cunningham and Driscoll, the US Navy's only aces of the Vietnam War, credited with five aerial victories. • Historic Engagement – "Cinco de Mayo": On May 10, 1972, the squadron’s actions led to the first and only US Navy aces of the Vietnam War, in what became known as the "Cinco de Mayo" engagement. • Losses and Sacrifice: VF-96 suffered significant losses during its Vietnam deployments, with several aircraft and crew lost in combat missions and operational accidents. • Notable Aircraft: The squadron's F-4J, Bureau Number 155800, flown by Cunningham and Driscoll, is displayed at the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola, Florida. • Squadron Evolution: VF-96 originated as VF-791, redesignated VF-142, then VF-96 before eventually becoming VFA-161 when converted to the F/A-18 Hornet after VF-96’s disestablishment. • Legacy in Naval Aviation: VF-96’s combat record and the exploits of its pilots influenced naval air combat tactics and training, contributing to the establishment of the Navy Fighter Weapons School, better known as "TOPGUN."