About this Unit
VS-38, known as the "Red Griffins," was a U.S. Navy anti-submarine squadron established in 1950. The unit served with distinction during the Korean War, Vietnam War, and throughout the Cold War, operating various carrier-based aircraft such as the S-2 Tracker and later the S-3 Viking. VS-38 was attached to multiple aircraft carriers, providing vital anti-submarine warfare (ASW), surveillance, and maritime patrol capabilities. The squadron was decommissioned in 2004 as part of the Navy’s transition away from dedicated carrier-based ASW squadrons.
Historical Facts
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Origins in WWII: VS-38 traces its lineage back to World War II, with its earliest predecessor squadron formed in 1943 as part of the U.S. Navy’s anti-submarine efforts.
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Squadron Nickname: VS-38 was widely known as the "Red Griffins," a moniker proudly displayed on their aircraft tail art and squadron insignia.
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Role and Mission: VS-38 specialized in anti-submarine warfare (ASW), maritime surveillance, and sea control, flying the S-2 Tracker and later the S-3 Viking aircraft.
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Vietnam War Service: The squadron deployed on several occasions to the Gulf of Tonkin, conducting patrols and search-and-rescue missions during the Vietnam War.
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S-3 Viking Transition: In the mid-1970s, VS-38 became one of the first squadrons to transition to the new Lockheed S-3A Viking, greatly enhancing its ASW capabilities.
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Operation Desert Storm: VS-38 played a key role aboard the USS Ranger (CV-61) during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, conducting surface surveillance, refueling, and strike support.
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Historic Carrier Landings: VS-38 aircraft often performed some of the last fixed-wing carrier landings for the S-3 Viking community before the aircraft’s retirement.
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Multiple Home Ports: Over its long history, VS-38 was homeported at various bases, including NAS North Island in San Diego, California, which became its primary base.
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Distinguished Unit Awards: The squadron earned numerous awards and citations, including the Navy Unit Commendation and Meritorious Unit Commendation for operational excellence.
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Deactivation: After more than five decades of service, VS-38 was officially decommissioned on April 30, 2004, marking the end of an era for carrier-based anti-submarine squadrons in the U.S. Navy.
