About this Unit
Patrol Squadron 22 (VP-22), known as the "Blue Geese," was a U.S. Navy maritime patrol squadron established in 1943 during World War II. Initially flying the PB4Y-1 Liberator, the squadron conducted anti-submarine warfare, reconnaissance, and search-and-rescue missions in the Pacific Theater. Over the decades, VP-22 operated various aircraft, including the P2V Neptune and P-3 Orion, and participated in significant Cold War operations, as well as the Vietnam War. The squadron was based at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii for much of its service before its deactivation in March 1994.
Historical Facts
• Long Service History: Patrol Squadron 22 (VP-22), also known as the "Blue Geese," was established in 1943 and served until its disestablishment in 1994, marking over 50 years of operational history.
• World War II Roots: VP-22 originated as VP-102 during World War II, flying maritime patrol missions in the Pacific, especially focusing on anti-submarine warfare and reconnaissance.
• Multiple Redesignations: The squadron went through numerous redesignations, including VPB-102, VP-HL-2, VP-22, and others, reflecting changing roles and Navy naming conventions over time.
• Korean War Operations: VP-22 was active during the Korean War, flying patrol and reconnaissance missions from bases in Japan and Okinawa, and was involved in anti-shipping and mine-laying operations.
• Cuban Missile Crisis: During the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, VP-22 was deployed to monitor Soviet shipping and submarine activity in the Caribbean, playing a key surveillance role.
• Vietnam War Patrols: The squadron flew extensive patrols and surveillance missions throughout the Vietnam War, operating from bases in the Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand.
• P-3 Orion Era: In the 1960s and beyond, VP-22 transitioned to flying the P-3B and later P-3C Orion, a state-of-the-art maritime patrol aircraft renowned for its anti-submarine and surveillance capabilities.
• Home Base in Hawaii: For much of its postwar career, VP-22 was based at Naval Air Station Barbers Point, Hawaii, projecting American maritime presence across the Pacific and Indian Oceans.
• Cold War Frontline: During the Cold War, VP-22 conducted surveillance of Soviet naval units and submarines, including tracking ballistic missile submarines in the Pacific.
• Deactivation and Legacy: VP-22 was disestablished on March 31, 1994, but its legacy lives on in the traditions and history of U.S. Navy maritime patrol aviation, with former personnel and aircraft serving as reminders of its contributions.
