VT-24

• Establishment: VT-24, also known as Training Squadron TWENTY-FOUR, was originally established as VA-44 Detachment at NAS Chase Field, Texas, in December 1958 and later redesignated as VT-24 in July 1960. • Primary Mission: VT-24’s primary mission was to train Naval Aviators in basic and advanced jet flight training as part of the U.S. Navy’s Training Command. • Aircraft Flown: Over its history, VT-24 has flown several aircraft types including the T-2 Buckeye, TA-4J Skyhawk, and the T-45 Goshawk. • Nickname: The squadron was nicknamed the “Bobcats,” a moniker that became synonymous with professionalism and training excellence. • Historic Achievements: VT-24 trained thousands of Navy and Marine Corps student pilots, playing a crucial role in preparing aviators for carrier operations. • Carrier Qualification: VT-24 was responsible for the critical phase of carrier qualification, where student pilots made their first arrested landings on aircraft carriers. • Vietnam War Contributions: Many pilots trained by VT-24 went on to serve in Vietnam, flying combat missions with distinction. • Safety Record: VT-24 earned multiple Chief of Naval Operations Aviation Safety Awards, recognizing its commitment to safe and effective flight training. • Base Closure: VT-24 operated primarily from NAS Chase Field until the base was closed in 1993 as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process. • Deactivation: The squadron was officially disestablished on August 31, 1996, after nearly four decades of distinguished service to naval aviation training.