About this Unit
Patrol Squadron 7 (VP-7) was a United States Navy patrol squadron established originally during World War II. Reactivated several times, its final designation as VP-7 occurred in 1948, operating primarily from NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Throughout the Cold War, VP-7 flew maritime patrol and anti-submarine warfare missions, first with the P2V Neptune and later the P-3 Orion aircraft. The squadron played a significant role in Atlantic fleet operations, including surveillance during the Cuban Missile Crisis, before being disestablished in 1969.
Historical Facts
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Origins in WWII: VP-7 was originally established as Patrol Squadron 7 (VP-7) on 1 September 1944, during World War II, and was initially equipped with the PB4Y-2 Privateer patrol bomber.
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Multiple Redesignations: The squadron underwent several redesignations over its history, including VPB-119, VP-119, VP-HL-9, and finally settling on VP-7 in September 1948.
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Korean War Service: VP-7 contributed to the Cold War effort by conducting anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and maritime patrols to counter the Soviet submarine threat.
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Home Base: The squadron was based at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Florida, for much of its post-WWII service.
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P2V Neptune Aircraft: VP-7 was a pioneer in operating the Lockheed P2V Neptune, a maritime patrol and ASW aircraft that became a workhorse of the era.
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Cuban Missile Crisis: During the Cuban Missile Crisis in October 1962, VP-7 played a critical role in patrolling the Atlantic approaches to Cuba, searching for potential Soviet submarines.
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Operation Springboard: The squadron regularly participated in Operation Springboard, an annual training exercise held in the Caribbean, honing their skills in anti-submarine and maritime surveillance.
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Vietnam War Patrols: Although not directly involved in combat in Vietnam, VP-7 conducted patrols in the Atlantic and Mediterranean, supporting U.S. Navy operations during the Vietnam era.
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Deactivation: VP-7 was disestablished on 1 November 1969, after 25 years of distinguished service.
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Nickname and Emblem: The squadron was known as the "Black Falcons," and its emblem featured a striking black falcon, representing speed, vigilance, and the squadron’s maritime prowess.
