VFA-15

• Origins in World War II: The lineage of VFA-15 traces back to World War II with the establishment of Fighter Squadron 62 (VF-62) in 1942, before several redesignations ultimately led to VFA-15. • Redesignations: The squadron underwent several name changes, including VF-62, VA-15, and finally VFA-15 ("Valions") in 1986 when it transitioned to flying the F/A-18 Hornet. • "Valions" Nickname: The squadron's nickname, "Valions," is a portmanteau of "Valor" and "Lions," reflecting their courage and fighting spirit. • Korean War Service: As VA-15, the squadron saw action during the Korean War, flying the F4U Corsair in combat missions. • Transition to Jets: In the 1950s, VA-15 transitioned to jet aircraft, including the F9F Panther and later the A-4 Skyhawk, marking its entry into the jet age. • Vietnam War Deployments: The squadron participated in multiple deployments during the Vietnam War, flying attack missions from aircraft carriers. • Carrier Operations: VFA-15 operated from several notable aircraft carriers, including USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71), USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67), and USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69). • Desert Storm Participation: VFA-15 played an active role in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, flying strike and support missions over Iraq and Kuwait. • Counter-Terrorism Operations: The squadron supported Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, demonstrating its continued relevance in post-9/11 military actions. • Deactivation: After over 70 years of distinguished service, VFA-15 was officially deactivated on May 31, 2017, marking the end of an era for the "Valions."