VS-38

• 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. • Squadron Nickname: VS-38 was widely known as the "Red Griffins," a moniker proudly displayed on their aircraft tail art and squadron insignia. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • Distinguished Unit Awards: The squadron earned numerous awards and citations, including the Navy Unit Commendation and Meritorious Unit Commendation for operational excellence. • 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.