About this Unit
Reconnaissance Attack (Heavy) Squadron 6 (RVAH-6), known as the "Fleurs," was a U.S. Navy squadron established in January 1951 as Composite Squadron Six (VC-6), later redesignated RVAH-6 in 1964. Initially flying the AJ Savage bomber, the squadron transitioned to the A3D Skywarrior and ultimately to the RA-5C Vigilante, specializing in carrier-based reconnaissance missions. RVAH-6 participated extensively in the Vietnam War, conducting high-risk photographic reconnaissance over hostile territory. The squadron continued its service through the Cold War until its deactivation on October 20, 1978.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: RVAH-6 traces its roots to World War II, originally established as Bombing Squadron 151 (VB-151) on January 1, 1943. The squadron underwent several redesignations before becoming RVAH-6 in September 1964.
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Transition to Heavy Attack: The squadron was designated as Heavy Attack Squadron 6 (VAH-6) in July 1955, equipped with the A-3 Skywarrior, one of the largest and heaviest carrier-based aircraft at the time.
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Adoption of the RA-5C Vigilante: In 1964, RVAH-6 became one of the first squadrons to operate the RA-5C Vigilante, a supersonic reconnaissance aircraft originally designed as a nuclear bomber.
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Vietnam War Service: RVAH-6 flew numerous reconnaissance missions over Vietnam, gathering critical intelligence during combat operations. They made multiple combat deployments aboard various aircraft carriers.
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Carrier Assignments: The squadron operated from several notable aircraft carriers, including USS Enterprise (CVN-65), USS America (CV-66), and USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63), participating in key operations during the Cold War era.
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Callsign “Fleurs”: The squadron's official callsign was "Fleurs," reflecting its original emblem which featured a fleur-de-lis, symbolizing both heritage and distinction.
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Losses and Valor: The dangerous reconnaissance missions over heavily defended areas resulted in aircraft losses and crew members being killed or captured. RVAH-6 personnel demonstrated extraordinary bravery, with some becoming prisoners of war.
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Technological Advances: The RA-5C Vigilante brought advanced photo-reconnaissance technology to the fleet, including high-speed cameras, infrared sensors, and side-looking radar, making RVAH-6 a leader in aerial intelligence gathering.
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Cold War Intelligence: Beyond Vietnam, RVAH-6 conducted surveillance and intelligence-gathering missions supporting U.S. Navy operations worldwide, contributing to Cold War deterrence and situational awareness.
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Deactivation and Legacy: RVAH-6 was disestablished on October 20, 1978, as the RA-5C Vigilante was retired. Its legacy continues in the traditions of naval reconnaissance and in the units that followed.
