VT-19

• Establishment: Training Squadron NINETEEN (VT-19) was originally established on August 2, 1960, at Naval Air Station (NAS) Meridian, Mississippi. • Mission: VT-19’s primary mission was to conduct basic and intermediate flight training for Student Naval Aviators, focusing on jet aircraft training. • Aircraft Operated: Over its history, VT-19 operated several aircraft, most notably the T-2 Buckeye and later the T-45 Goshawk, both essential for jet training in the U.S. Navy. • Nickname: VT-19 was known as the “Frogs,” a nod to their amphibious and adaptable nature in training. • Tail Code: The squadron’s aircraft carried the tail code “E,” signifying its assignment to Training Air Wing ONE at NAS Meridian. • Training Achievements: Over decades, VT-19 trained thousands of Navy and Marine Corps aviators, contributing significantly to U.S. naval aviation readiness. • Safety Record: VT-19 earned numerous safety awards for its exemplary flight safety record, including Chief of Naval Operations Aviation Safety Awards. • Disestablishment and Legacy: VT-19 was deactivated on October 1, 1987, as part of a Navy training reorganization, but its traditions were incorporated into other training units. • Wing Patch: The squadron patch featured a green frog wearing a pilot helmet and goggles, symbolizing the unit's playful spirit and aviation excellence. • Notable Alumni: Many VT-19 graduates went on to become distinguished combat aviators, test pilots, and even astronauts, highlighting the unit’s impact on naval aviation history.