VFA-94

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Branch

U.S. Navy

Members

About VFA-94

Strike Fighter Squadron 94 (VFA-94), known as the "Mighty Shrikes," was originally established as VF-94 in 1952. The squadron saw combat during the Vietnam War, flying A-4 Skyhawks from aircraft carriers in the Western Pacific. Over the decades, VFA-94 transitioned through several aircraft, including the A-7 Corsair II and later the F/A-18 Hornet, reflecting the evolution of naval aviation. The Mighty Shrikes have participated in numerous operations, including Operation Desert Storm and subsequent Middle East deployments, maintaining a reputation for excellence in strike fighter missions.

Unit Members

Kris Irelan

U.S. Navy

VFA-94View Profile

Bill Hebert

U.S. Navy

VFA-94View 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-94

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Squadron Nickname: VFA-94 is famously known as the "Mighty Shrikes," a tribute to the small but fierce predatory bird. • Established in 1952: The squadron was originally established on 26 March 1952 as VF-94, flying F4U Corsairs, and later redesignated as VA-94 and then VFA-94. • Transition to Strike Fighter: Originally an attack squadron (VA-94), it became a Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA-94) in 1986 with the transition to the F/A-18 Hornet. • Carrier Deployments: The Mighty Shrikes have completed numerous carrier deployments, including on USS Enterprise (CVN-65), USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70), and USS Nimitz (CVN-68). • Vietnam War Service: VFA-94, then VA-94, flew combat missions during the Vietnam War, earning multiple awards for their actions. • First to Drop Laser-Guided Bombs: The squadron was one of the first Navy units to deploy and use laser-guided bombs in combat. • Operation Iraqi Freedom: VFA-94 participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom, flying combat sorties and delivering precision-guided munitions. • Squadron Insignia: The Shrikes’ insignia features a stylized shrike bird with a missile, symbolizing deadly precision. • Aircraft Flown: Over its history, the squadron has flown F4U Corsairs, F9F Panthers, A-4 Skyhawks, A-7 Corsair IIs, and F/A-18 Hornets (A/B/C/E variants). • Squadron Motto: VFA-94’s motto is “Shrike One,” reflecting their fighting spirit and commitment to mission success.