About this Unit
Torpedo Squadron 3 (VT-3) was a United States Navy torpedo bomber squadron established in the 1920s and most famously active during World War II. VT-3 gained distinction for its role in the Battle of Midway in June 1942, where its pilots and crew launched a courageous but costly attack against the Japanese carrier fleet. Despite suffering heavy losses—most of its planes were shot down—VT-3’s attack, along with those by VT-6 and VT-8, drew Japanese fighter cover away, enabling American dive bombers to strike decisively. The squadron’s sacrifice was pivotal in turning the tide of the Pacific War in favor of the Allies.
Historical Facts
• Origins: VT-3, also known as Torpedo Squadron Three, was established in 1925 as part of the United States Navy’s efforts to develop carrier-based torpedo bombing capabilities.
• Battle of Midway: VT-3 played a critical role in the pivotal Battle of Midway in June 1942, launching torpedo attacks from USS Yorktown (CV-5) against the Japanese fleet.
• Heavy Losses: During the Midway attack, VT-3 suffered severe casualties, with only two of their twelve TBD Devastator torpedo bombers returning from the mission.
• Heroic Actions: The squadron’s attack, alongside VT-6 and VT-8, drew Japanese fighter cover to low altitude, allowing U.S. dive bombers to strike and sink three Japanese carriers.
• Aircraft Evolution: VT-3 originally flew the Martin T3M and T4M, then transitioned to the Douglas TBD Devastator, and later to the Grumman TBF Avenger after Midway.
• Squadron Motto: The squadron’s motto was “Attack, Attack, Attack,” reflecting their aggressive approach in carrying out torpedo bombing missions.
• Legacy of Sacrifice: The heroism and sacrifice of VT-3’s crews at Midway are commemorated in naval history as a turning point in the Pacific War.
• Reformation and Redesignation: VT-3 was disbanded after World War II but the designation “VT-3” has been used by other Navy training squadrons, including a still-active Training Squadron Three (“VT-3 Red Knights”) at NAS Whiting Field.
• Notable Personnel: Among the brave aviators was Lieutenant Commander Lance E. Massey, squadron leader at Midway, who was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross.
• Depicted in Media: The actions of VT-3 have been depicted in various books, documentaries, and films about the Battle of Midway, highlighting their contribution to victory.
