About this Unit
VF-96, also known as Fighter Squadron 96 and nicknamed the "Fighting Falcons," was a United States Navy fighter squadron established in 1950. The squadron was most notable for its service during the Vietnam War, flying the F-4 Phantom II and earning distinction for its air combat achievements. VF-96 aviators, including Lieutenant Randy Cunningham and Lieutenant (jg) William Driscoll, achieved ace status by downing five enemy aircraft in 1972. The squadron was disestablished in 1975, but its legacy lives on as one of the Navy’s most accomplished fighter units of its era.
Historical Facts
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Losses and Sacrifice: VF-96 suffered significant losses during its Vietnam deployments, with several aircraft and crew lost in combat missions and operational accidents.
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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.
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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.
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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."
