VP-21

• Multiple Designations: The U.S. Navy squadron VP-21 actually refers to several different squadrons over time due to the Navy's tradition of reusing squadron numbers. The most famous VP-21 was originally established as VP-7B in 1929, redesignated several times, and finally became VP-21 in 1948. • World War II Service: VP-21 saw distinguished service in World War II, participating in anti-submarine warfare, reconnaissance, and patrol missions throughout the Atlantic and Pacific theaters. • Flying Boats to Neptunes: The squadron flew a variety of aircraft over its lifetime, including PBY Catalinas ("flying boats") during WWII and later the land-based P2V Neptune, reflecting major changes in patrol aviation technology. • Cuban Missile Crisis: VP-21 played a key surveillance role during the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, flying patrols to track Soviet ships and submarines in the Atlantic. • Home Ports: The squadron was based at several major naval air stations, including NAS Norfolk, NAS Jacksonville, NAS Quonset Point, and finally NAS Brunswick, Maine. • Cold War Frontline: Throughout the Cold War, VP-21 conducted anti-submarine patrols in the North Atlantic, helping to track Soviet Navy submarines and protect U.S. interests. • Nickname "Blackjacks": The squadron was known as the "Blackjacks," a nod to their squadron insignia featuring the ace of spades. • Operation Market Time: VP-21 contributed to Operation Market Time, a U.S. Navy effort to prevent North Vietnamese supplies from reaching South Vietnam by sea. • Decommissioning: VP-21 was disestablished on November 21, 1969, as part of a post-Vietnam War reduction in U.S. Navy patrol squadrons. • Legacy and Reunions: Despite disestablishment, former members of VP-21 maintain an active veterans association, holding regular reunions and preserving the squadron's history and camaraderie.