--74461.jpg)
ABOUT VA-127
- Establishment and Nickname: Attack Squadron 127 (VA-127) was established on 15 June 1962 as a Fleet Replacement Attack Squadron, known by the nickname "Royal Blues."
- Previous Designations: The squadron traces its roots to VA-126, but was redesignated VA-127 when the Navy reorganized its replacement training squadrons.
- Primary Mission: VA-127 was primarily tasked with training replacement pilots and maintenance personnel for the A-4 Skyhawk attack aircraft, a workhorse of the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War era.
- Location: The squadron was based at Naval Air Station Lemoore, California, which became a central hub for West Coast carrier-based attack squadrons.
- Vietnam War Support: While VA-127 itself did not deploy to combat, it played a critical role in preparing countless pilots for combat tours in Vietnam, directly impacting U.S. air operations.
- Aircraft Flown: Over its history, VA-127 operated numerous A-4 Skyhawk variants, including the A-4B, A-4E, A-4F, and the two-seat TA-4J, which was widely used for training.
- Foreign Military Training: VA-127 also provided training for foreign military pilots, including those from Argentina, Singapore, and Kuwait, enhancing international military cooperation.
- Safety Record: The squadron achieved several milestones for flight safety, earning Navy Unit Commendations and recognition for accident-free flying hours.
- Disestablishment: VA-127 was disestablished on 1 October 1979, after 17 years of service, as the Navy phased out the A-4 Skyhawk from its active fleet training units.
- Legacy: The squadron's alumni include many naval aviators who went on to distinguished careers, and the "Royal Blues" legacy remains well-remembered among A-4 Skyhawk and naval aviation communities.