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VFA:VA-105

U.S. Navy•6 members

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About this Unit

VFA:VA-105

U.S. Navy

Strike Fighter Squadron 105 (VFA-105), originally established as Attack Squadron 105 (VA-105) on November 1, 1967, is a distinguished U.S. Navy aviation unit known as the "Gunslingers." The squadron first flew the A-7A Corsair II and saw combat during the Vietnam War, participating in significant air strike operations. Over the decades, the squadron transitioned through various aircraft, including the A-7E and later the F/A-18 Hornet, reflecting its shift from an attack to a strike fighter role. VFA-105 has deployed with multiple carrier air wings and played key roles in operations such as Desert Storm, Southern Watch, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, earning a reputation for excellence and adaptability.

About VFA:VA-105

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Establishment: VA-105, known as the "Gunslingers," was established on 1 November 1952 as an attack squadron in the United States Navy.
First Aircraft: The squadron initially flew the Douglas AD Skyraider, a legendary attack aircraft famous for its ruggedness and firepower.
Suez Crisis: VA-105 saw its first combat deployment during the 1956 Suez Crisis, providing air support from the USS Essex (CV-9) as the Middle East situation escalated.
Lebanon Operations: In July 1958, VA-105 played a significant role during the U.S. intervention in Lebanon, conducting armed patrols and show-of-force missions.
Cuban Missile Crisis: The squadron was deployed aboard USS Enterprise (CVAN-65) during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, helping enforce the naval blockade of Cuba.
Vietnam War: Deployed to Southeast Asia, VA-105 participated in combat operations over North and South Vietnam, flying the more advanced A-4 Skyhawk.
First Loss in Vietnam: On 23 August 1964, the squadron suffered its first combat loss in Vietnam when a Skyhawk was shot down during operations in the Gulf of Tonkin.
Transition to VFA-105: The original VA-105 was disestablished in 1969, but the "Gunslingers" name was revived in 1987 when Strike Fighter Squadron 105 (VFA-105) was established, flying the F/A-18 Hornet.
Modern Service: VFA-105 has participated in modern conflicts, including Operations Southern Watch, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom, operating from various aircraft carriers.
Squadron Insignia: The "Gunslingers" insignia features a stylized revolver and holster, representing the squadron's aggressive attack heritage and quick-response capability.

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VFA:VA-105

U.S. Navy•6 members

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About this Unit

VFA:VA-105

U.S. Navy

Unit members

Phillip lowe

U.S. Navy Veteran · 1984 - 1986

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Michael James

U.S. Navy · 1978 - 1981

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Christopher Grubbs

U.S. Navy · 1967 - 1972

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David Catts

U.S. Navy · 1984 - 1988

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Navy photos

Somewhere in Kuwait near the Iraqi border

Siezed Soviet/Iraqi Tank that was abandoned

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About VFA:VA-105

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Establishment: VA-105, known as the "Gunslingers," was established on 1 November 1952 as an attack squadron in the United States Navy.
First Aircraft: The squadron initially flew the Douglas AD Skyraider, a legendary attack aircraft famous for its ruggedness and firepower.
Suez Crisis: VA-105 saw its first combat deployment during the 1956 Suez Crisis, providing air support from the USS Essex (CV-9) as the Middle East situation escalated.
Lebanon Operations: In July 1958, VA-105 played a significant role during the U.S. intervention in Lebanon, conducting armed patrols and show-of-force missions.
Cuban Missile Crisis: The squadron was deployed aboard USS Enterprise (CVAN-65) during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, helping enforce the naval blockade of Cuba.
Vietnam War: Deployed to Southeast Asia, VA-105 participated in combat operations over North and South Vietnam, flying the more advanced A-4 Skyhawk.
First Loss in Vietnam: On 23 August 1964, the squadron suffered its first combat loss in Vietnam when a Skyhawk was shot down during operations in the Gulf of Tonkin.
Transition to VFA-105: The original VA-105 was disestablished in 1969, but the "Gunslingers" name was revived in 1987 when Strike Fighter Squadron 105 (VFA-105) was established, flying the F/A-18 Hornet.
Modern Service: VFA-105 has participated in modern conflicts, including Operations Southern Watch, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom, operating from various aircraft carriers.
Squadron Insignia: The "Gunslingers" insignia features a stylized revolver and holster, representing the squadron's aggressive attack heritage and quick-response capability.