Attack Squadron 176 (VA-176), also known as the "Thunderbolts," was a United States Navy attack squadron established on 1 May 1955. The squadron gained distinction during the Vietnam War, notably on 19 October 1966, when one of its A-1 Skyraider pilots, LTJG William T. Patton, shot down a North Vietnamese MiG-17 with Zuni rockets—one of the few piston-engine victories against a jet in history. VA-176 operated from carriers such as USS Intrepid (CVS-11) and participated in numerous combat operations and support missions. The squadron was disestablished on 1 February 1972, after nearly 17 years of service.
