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VT-22

U.S. Navy•17 members

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About this Unit

VT-22

U.S. Navy

Strike Fighter Squadron 22 (VT-22), known as the “Golden Eagles,” was originally established as Advanced Training Unit 212 (ATU-212) in June 1949 at Naval Air Station Corpus Christi, Texas. Over the decades, VT-22 has played a crucial role in training Navy and Marine Corps pilots in advanced strike fighter tactics, evolving through several aircraft types, including the T-28 Trojan, T-2 Buckeye, and currently the T-45C Goshawk. The squadron’s mission is to prepare student aviators for operational carrier-based strike fighter assignments. Throughout its history, VT-22 has been recognized for its exemplary safety record and contributions to naval aviation training.

About VT-22

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Established in 1949: VT-22 was originally established as Advanced Training Unit-B (ATU-B) in June 1949, making it one of the oldest U.S. Navy training squadrons.
Nickname "Golden Eagles": The squadron is famously known as the "Golden Eagles," a name that reflects their high standards and excellence in training naval aviators.
Changed Designations: Over its history, the squadron has undergone several redesignations, including ATU-201 and VA-122, before becoming VT-22 in May 1960.
Training Role: VT-22 is a primary advanced jet training squadron, responsible for training Navy and Marine Corps pilots to fly tactical jets.
Aircraft Evolution: Through the decades, VT-22 has operated various aircraft, including the T-28 Trojan, T-2 Buckeye, TA-4J Skyhawk, and currently the T-45C Goshawk.
Based at NAS Kingsville: Since 1960, VT-22 has been home-based at Naval Air Station Kingsville in Texas, one of the Navy’s premier jet training bases.
Distinguished Graduates: Many VT-22 alumni have gone on to become distinguished aviators, including combat pilots, Blue Angels, and astronauts.
Safety Record: VT-22 has received numerous awards for flight safety, reflecting their commitment to rigorous standards and operational excellence.
Carrier Qualification: The squadron is responsible for training student aviators in carrier landing skills, a critical and challenging aspect of naval aviation.
Tradition of Excellence: The Golden Eagles maintain a rich tradition, with a strong sense of camaraderie and pride, symbolized by their mascot and squadron insignia.

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VT-22

U.S. Navy•17 members

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About this Unit

VT-22

U.S. Navy

Unit members

Charles Goodrich

U.S. Navy · 1980 - 1982

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David Mayes

U.S. Navy · 1985 - 1986

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Steven Lindstrom

U.S. Navy Veteran · 1966 - Present

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Bruce Coleman

U.S. Navy · 1968 - 1992

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Navy photos

Somewhere in Kuwait near the Iraqi border

Siezed Soviet/Iraqi Tank that was abandoned

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About VT-22

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Established in 1949: VT-22 was originally established as Advanced Training Unit-B (ATU-B) in June 1949, making it one of the oldest U.S. Navy training squadrons.
Nickname "Golden Eagles": The squadron is famously known as the "Golden Eagles," a name that reflects their high standards and excellence in training naval aviators.
Changed Designations: Over its history, the squadron has undergone several redesignations, including ATU-201 and VA-122, before becoming VT-22 in May 1960.
Training Role: VT-22 is a primary advanced jet training squadron, responsible for training Navy and Marine Corps pilots to fly tactical jets.
Aircraft Evolution: Through the decades, VT-22 has operated various aircraft, including the T-28 Trojan, T-2 Buckeye, TA-4J Skyhawk, and currently the T-45C Goshawk.
Based at NAS Kingsville: Since 1960, VT-22 has been home-based at Naval Air Station Kingsville in Texas, one of the Navy’s premier jet training bases.
Distinguished Graduates: Many VT-22 alumni have gone on to become distinguished aviators, including combat pilots, Blue Angels, and astronauts.
Safety Record: VT-22 has received numerous awards for flight safety, reflecting their commitment to rigorous standards and operational excellence.
Carrier Qualification: The squadron is responsible for training student aviators in carrier landing skills, a critical and challenging aspect of naval aviation.
Tradition of Excellence: The Golden Eagles maintain a rich tradition, with a strong sense of camaraderie and pride, symbolized by their mascot and squadron insignia.