VS-22

Sea Control Squadron 22 (VS-22), known as the "Checkmates," was a U.S. Navy anti-submarine warfare squadron established in 1950. Initially flying the Grumman S-2 Tracker, VS-22 later transitioned to the S-3 Viking, operating primarily from aircraft carriers in both the Atlantic and Mediterranean theaters. The squadron participated in significant operations, including NATO exercises and combat support missions during the Gulf War and Operation Iraqi Freedom. After over five decades of service, VS-22 was decommissioned in 2009 as the S-3 Viking was retired from frontline service.