About this Unit
VS-37, known as the "Sawbucks," was a United States Navy anti-submarine squadron established in 1946. Originally flying the TBM Avenger, the squadron transitioned through several aircraft, including the S-2 Tracker and later the S-3 Viking. Throughout its history, VS-37 served aboard multiple aircraft carriers and participated in major conflicts such as the Korean War, Vietnam War, and Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. The squadron was decommissioned in 1995 after nearly five decades of service in maritime patrol and anti-submarine warfare.
Historical Facts
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Long Service History: VS-37, or Sea Control Squadron 37 (“Screaming Tigers”), was a U.S. Navy squadron active from 1946 to 1995, marking nearly 50 years of service.
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Multiple Aircraft Types: Over its lifespan, VS-37 operated a variety of aircraft, including the TBM Avenger, S2F Tracker, and S-3A/B Viking, adapting with technological advancements in anti-submarine warfare (ASW).
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Korean War Service: The squadron saw action during the Korean War, providing vital anti-submarine patrols and carrier support.
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Vietnam War Deployments: VS-37 was deployed multiple times during the Vietnam War, conducting ASW patrols and sea surveillance in the Gulf of Tonkin.
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Transition to the S-3 Viking: In 1976, VS-37 became one of the first squadrons to transition to the Lockheed S-3 Viking, a jet-powered ASW aircraft that greatly enhanced their operational capabilities.
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Carrier Deployments: The squadron deployed aboard a variety of aircraft carriers, including USS Hornet (CV-12), USS Ticonderoga (CV-14), USS Ranger (CV-61), USS Constellation (CV-64), and USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63).
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Cold War Operations: During the Cold War, VS-37 played a key role in tracking Soviet submarines and maintaining maritime security in the Pacific.
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Operation Desert Storm: VS-37 participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, flying over 600 combat sorties and providing crucial maritime patrol and surveillance.
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Squadron Nickname: The unit was known as the “Screaming Tigers,” reflected in their distinctive squadron patch featuring a roaring tiger.
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Deactivation: VS-37 was officially decommissioned on 28 February 1995, marking the end of an era as the last active U.S. Navy S-3 Viking squadron on the West Coast at that time.
