VFA-87

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Branch

U.S. Navy

Members

About VFA-87

Strike Fighter Squadron 87 (VFA-87), known as the "Golden Warriors," was established in 1968 as Attack Squadron 87 (VA-87) and originally flew the A-7 Corsair II. The squadron transitioned to the F/A-18 Hornet in 1986 and was redesignated as VFA-87. Over its history, VFA-87 has participated in major operations, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom, conducting strike and combat air patrol missions. The squadron is based at Naval Air Station Oceana and continues to serve as a front-line strike fighter unit in the U.S. Navy.

Unit Members

Jose Degracia

U.S. Navy

VFA-87View Profile

Devin Stacy

U.S. Navy

VFA-87View Profile

Photos

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

About VFA-87

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Establishment: Strike Fighter Squadron 87 (VFA-87), known as the "Golden Warriors," was established on 1 June 1968. • Nickname and Insignia: The squadron's nickname, "Golden Warriors," is reflected in their insignia, which features a golden Native American warrior holding a spear and shield. • Vietnam War Service: Shortly after its establishment, the squadron deployed to Vietnam, flying the A-7 Corsair II during combat operations. • Aircraft Transition: Over the decades, VFA-87 has transitioned through several aircraft, including the A-7 Corsair II, F/A-18 Hornet, and currently the F/A-18E Super Hornet. • Operation Desert Storm: VFA-87 participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, flying combat missions from the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71). • Balkan Operations: The squadron supported NATO operations in the Balkans, including Operation Deny Flight and Operation Allied Force in the 1990s. • 9/11 Response: In the aftermath of the September 11th attacks, VFA-87 rapidly deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. • Combat Deployments: VFA-87 has completed numerous deployments to the Persian Gulf, supporting Operations Iraqi Freedom and Inherent Resolve. • Aerial Victories: On January 17, 1991, VFA-87 scored an aerial victory during Desert Storm when pilot Lt. Cmdr. Mark Fox shot down an Iraqi MiG-21. • Home Base: The squadron is based at Naval Air Station Oceana, Virginia, a major hub for the U.S. Navy’s East Coast strike fighter force.