Strike Fighter Squadron 103 (VFA-103)

• Nickname "Jolly Rogers": VFA-103 is famously known as the "Jolly Rogers" and features the iconic skull-and-crossbones insignia on their aircraft tails, a symbol associated with naval aviation legends. • Established in 1952: The squadron was originally established as VA-103 on May 1, 1952, and has undergone several designations before becoming VFA-103 in 1995. • Transition to F/A-18F Super Hornet: In 2005, VFA-103 transitioned from the F-14 Tomcat to the F/A-18F Super Hornet, ending the era of Tomcat operations for the Jolly Rogers. • Tomcat Sundown: VFA-103 was among the last two squadrons to fly the legendary F-14 Tomcat before its retirement from U.S. Navy service in 2006. • Carrier Deployments: The squadron has deployed aboard multiple aircraft carriers, including USS Enterprise (CVN-65), USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67), and USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69). • Combat Operations: VFA-103 has participated in several major operations, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom. • Famous "Show Bird": The squadron’s CAG (Commander, Air Group) aircraft often features special high-visibility paint schemes, making it a favorite among aviation photographers and modelers. • Squadron Motto: Their motto, "Fear the Bones," is a nod to their skull-and-crossbones insignia and their reputation for excellence in naval aviation. • Lineage to WWII Jolly Rogers: VFA-103 adopted the Jolly Rogers name and traditions in 1995, continuing the legacy of previous squadrons (VF-17 and VF-84) that bore the iconic insignia. • Appearances in Popular Culture: The Jolly Rogers have appeared in films, video games, and documentaries, and are widely recognized by military aviation enthusiasts worldwide for their distinctive livery and storied history.