About this Unit
Strike Fighter Squadron 22 (VFA-22), known as the "Fighting Redcocks," was originally established as VF-63 in 1948 and redesignated as VFA-22 in 1993. The squadron has participated in numerous significant conflicts, including the Korean War, Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, and Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. Throughout its history, VFA-22 has flown various aircraft, transitioning from the F4U Corsair to the F/A-18F Super Hornet, its current platform. Today, VFA-22 operates as a key strike fighter squadron within the U.S. Navy, based at Naval Air Station Lemoore, California.
Historical Facts
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Establishment and Early Years: VFA-22, originally designated as VF-63, was established on 23 August 1948. The squadron underwent several redesignations before becoming Strike Fighter Squadron 22 (VFA-22) in 1993.
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Nickname - "Fighting Redcocks": The squadron is famously known as the "Fighting Redcocks," a unique and distinctive nickname chosen in the 1950s, referencing the rooster in their insignia.
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Aircraft Evolution: Over its history, VFA-22 has flown numerous aircraft types, including the F6F Hellcat, F8F Bearcat, F4U Corsair, F9F Panther, F-8 Crusader, F-4 Phantom II, A-7 Corsair II, F/A-18C Hornet, and currently the F/A-18E Super Hornet.
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Korean War Service: As VF-63, the squadron saw combat in the Korean War, flying F9F Panthers from the USS Boxer (CV-21).
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Vietnam War Deployments: The squadron completed multiple combat deployments to Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War, operating from several aircraft carriers and flying A-7B/C/E Corsair II aircraft.
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Operation Desert Storm: VFA-22 participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, flying the A-7E Corsair II and conducting strike missions over Iraq and Kuwait.
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Transition to F/A-18 Hornet: In 1990, the squadron transitioned to the F/A-18C Hornet, significantly expanding its capabilities in both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions.
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Global War on Terror: VFA-22 has been actively engaged in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, supporting combat operations with precision strike and close air support missions.
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Home Base: The squadron is currently based at Naval Air Station Lemoore, California, a key hub for the U.S. Navy’s West Coast carrier air wings.
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Decorations and Awards: VFA-22 has received numerous unit citations and awards, including the Navy Unit Commendation, Meritorious Unit Commendation, and the Battle "E" for excellence.
