VR-8

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Branch

U.S. Navy

Members

About VR-8

Fleet Tactical Support Squadron 8 (VR-8) was a U.S. Navy aviation unit tasked with providing air logistics support. Established during World War II, VR-8 operated a variety of transport aircraft, including the R4D Skytrain and later the C-130 Hercules, to move personnel, cargo, and mail between bases and theaters of operation. Throughout its service, VR-8 played a crucial role in supporting naval operations by ensuring the timely delivery of essential supplies. The squadron was eventually disestablished as part of postwar restructuring and advancements in naval air logistics.

Unit Members

Haskel Ward

U.S. Navy

VR-8View Profile

James Dougherty

U.S. Navy

VR-8View 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 VR-8

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Establishment: Fleet Tactical Support Squadron 8 (VR-8) was originally established during World War II, providing critical air logistics support to the U.S. Navy. • Nickname: VR-8 was known as the "Eight Ballers," a nod to both the squadron number and the tradition of using unique call signs. • Aircraft Operated: Over its history, VR-8 operated several transport aircraft, including the R4D (Navy version of the DC-3), R6D (Navy C-118 Liftmaster), and C-130 Hercules. • Global Reach: The squadron conducted logistics flights across the Pacific, Atlantic, and to remote posts, connecting U.S. naval bases worldwide. • Cold War Missions: During the Cold War, VR-8 played a vital role in transporting personnel, mail, and supplies to support operations and deployments throughout Europe and the Mediterranean. • Operation "Goodwill": VR-8 participated in humanitarian and disaster relief missions, delivering aid and supplies to areas affected by natural disasters. • Home Bases: The squadron was based at various locations over time, including NAS Moffett Field, California and NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. • Joint Operations: VR-8 often worked alongside other Navy and Marine Corps aviation units to ensure the timely delivery of crucial parts and equipment to deployed fleets. • Vietnam War Support: VR-8 aircrews provided vital logistical support to operations in Southeast Asia, ensuring a steady flow of men and materiel to and from the combat zone. • Deactivation: As part of post-war downsizing and restructuring, VR-8 was eventually disestablished, but its legacy lives on in the history of Navy air logistics.