List of inactive United States Navy aircraft squadrons (VF)

Last updated

The VF designation was one of the oldest in use by the U.S. Navy. From 1921 to 1948 it designated "Fighting Plane Squadron" or "Fighting Squadron". It designated "Fighter Squadron" from 1948 until 2006 when the last VF squadron was redesignated to Strike Fighter (VFA) squadron. [1] The designation has not been used since 2006. During the time the VF designation was in use there were two periods during which a suffix letter was added after the squadron designation number. From 1927 to 1937 the suffix letter denoted to which fleet the squadron belonged; B for Battle Fleet and S for Scouting Fleet. From 15 November 1946 to as late as 1 September 1948 the suffix letter denoted to which type of Carrier Air Group the squadron belonged: A for those assigned to Essex class carriers (sometimes called "Attack" carriers), B for those assigned to the large Midway class carriers (sometimes called "Battle" carriers), L for those assigned to "light" Independence or Siapan class carriers and E for those assigned to remaining small WWII "escort carriers". [2]

Contents

Beginning in 1937, VF squadron designation numbers were determined by the hull number of the aircraft carrier (CV) from which they operated. VF-3 for example belonged to the Saratoga's Air Group as USS Saratoga was CV 3. When the ship named Air Groups were given designation numbers themselves, their designation numbers matched the CV hull numbers, the Saratoga Air Group became Carrier Air Group Three (CVG-3) and CVG-3's VF squadron was VF-3. With the massive buildup of WWII the CVG numbers became divorced from CV hull numbers, but the CVG's squadrons were still numbered with the CVG to which they were assigned so, VF-6 was the fighter squadron assigned to CVG-6 and VF-81 was the fighter squadron assigned to CVG-81. Before and during WWII each ship named Air Group and CVG had only one VF squadron assigned so numbering the VF squadron with the ship hull number or CVG designation number worked well. There were a few exceptions and in those cases either a second digit was added (VF-41 and VF-42) or a letter was added (VF-74A and VF-74B), but those instances were rare. After the war the CVG and squadron designation system was changed. CVGs were redesignated CVAG, CVBG, CVLG and CVEG according to the type of aircraft carrier to which they were assigned and they were all designated with odd numbers. Each had two VF squadrons assigned which were designated VF-1A and VF-2A for CVAG-1, VF-3A and VF-4A for CVAG-3, VF-1B and VF-2B for CVBG-1 etc... On 1 Sep 1948 the designation system changed again dropping the "A", "B", "L" and "E" from both the CVG designations and from the squadron designations. CVGs were numbered sequentially beginning with CVG-1 and each had three VF squadrons assigned which were numbered sequentially by using the CVG number followed by a single digit, so CVG-1's VF squadrons were designated VF-11, VF-12 and VF-13 and CVG-11's VF squadrons were designated VF-111, VF-112 and VF-113 etc... Beginning in 1949 most CVGs received a fourth VF squadron (VF-14, VF-24, VF-114 etc...). These varied designation systems used through the years resulted in squadron designations being reused for completely unrelated squadrons; take the designations VF-11, VF-12 and VF-13 for example. The first use of each of those designations was used to designate the single VF squadron of each of three different CVGs during WWII, CVG-11, CVG-12 and CVG-13. The second use of those designations designated three VF squadrons of CVG-1 after 1 September 1948.

Throughout this entire period, from pre-WWII to 1965, as squadrons were reassigned from one CVG to another they were redesignated to conform with the numbering system of that CVG. That practice began to be abandoned by the mid-1950s but did not completely cease until 1965. By then, all squadron designation numbers had been "frozen" and were divorced from the Carrier Air Wing (CVW) designation numbers. Later, newly established squadrons were numbered either sequentially (such as VF-1 and VF-2 established in 1972) or were given designation numbers to commemorate a long-serving disestablished squadron (VF-191 established in 1986 commemorated a squadron which had existed from 1943 to 1978). This is why today there are squadrons with numbers as low as VFA-2 and as high as VFA-213 with many numbers missing in between.

The table below does not list disestablished squadrons, it is a list of squadron designations which are no longer in use. In most cases a single squadron carried multiple designations between the time it was established and the time it was disestablished, therefore multiple designations in the table belonged to a single squadron. Most of the squadron designations in the table belonged to squadrons which have been disestablished, but also included are former designations of some VFA squadrons which are still active, and one which has been deactivated. This table includes all "VF" designations that have been used by US Navy aircraft squadrons except for those assigned to USNR squadrons which existed before 1970 unless they were activated, in which case they are included. It also does not include 25 "VF(N)" designations (night fighter) which were used between 1943 and 1946. [3] Sorting the table by the "Disestablished as (or current designation)" column will display all designations belonging to a single squadron grouped together, note that many squadrons were designated as both VF and VA squadrons at different times during their existence.

Note: The parenthetical (first use), (second use), (1st), (2nd), (3rd) etc... appended to some designations in the table below are not a part of the squadron designation system. They are added to indicate that the designation was used more than once during the history of U.S. Naval Aviation and which use of the designation is indicated. Absence indicates that the designation was used only once.

DesignationInsigniaNicknameAircraft [lower-alpha 1] Establishment and Redesignation (if applicable) Dates [3] Disestablished as
(or current designation)
Disestablished DateNotes [lower-alpha 2]
Squadrons in operation prior to the beginning of U.S. Navy Aircraft Carrier operations. The Navy's aircraft squadron designation system came into being in the early 1920s. Prior to that time Navy aircraft were assigned to air stations but to fully utilize aviation's potential it was necessary to extend its capabilities to operate with the fleet through the organization of squadrons. Squadrons were numbered according to ship squadron numbers and were designated according to the use of the squadron's aircraft [4] such as "Torpedo" or "Patrol" or "Combat"; however, the official use of abbreviated designations such as VT, VP or VF had not yet been implemented.
VF-4 [lower-alpha 3]
(first use)
VF-1 High Hatters insignia.jpg Top Hatters VE-7 Air Det Pac Flt: Sep 1919-15 Jun 1920
VT-5(1st): 15 Jun 1920-7 Sep 1921
VP-1-4: 7 Dec 1921-23 Sep 1921
VF-4(1st): 23 Sep 1921 – 1 Jul 1922
VF-1(1st): 1 Jul 1922-1 Jul 1927
VF-1B(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1934
VB-2B: 1 Jul 1934-1 Jul 1937
VB-3: 1 Jul 1937-1 Jul 1939
VB-4: 1 Jul 1939-15 Mar 1941
VS-41(2nd): 15 Mar 1941-1 Mar 1943
VB-41: 1 Mar 1943-4 Aug 1943
VB-4: 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946
VA-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948
VA-14: 2 Aug 1948-15 Dec 1949
VF-14(2nd): 15 Dec 1949-1 Dec 2001
VFA-14: 1 Dec 2001–present
VFA-14Not applicable, still existsOldest continuously active aircraft squadron in the U.S. Navy
Combat Squadron 4 [lower-alpha 4] VE-7 Combat Squadron 4: 23 Sep 1921 – 1 Jul 1922
VF-2(1st): 1 Jul 1922-19 Mar 1923
VF-2B(1st): 19 Mar 1923-1 Jan 1927
VF-6B(1st): 1 Jan 1927-1 Jul 1927
VF-6(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1928
VB-2B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930
VF-6B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-1 Jul 1937
VF-3(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943
VF-6(3rd): 15 Jul 1943 – 1 Oct 1945
VF-6 (3rd)1 October 1945
1 July 1922 to 1 July 1927: Naval Aviation Organization for FY 1923 issued on 17 June 1922 and implemented on 1 July 1922 changed the numbering of squadrons from according to ship squadron number to serially within each class and listed the squadrons by abbreviated designation (VF, VO, VS, VT) for the first time. [4] USS Langley (CV 1) was commissioned on 20 March 1922, VF-1 and VF-2 (as VF-2B) operated from USS Langley (CV 1) conducting experimentation in the concept of shipborne aviation.
VF-1
(first use)
VF-1 High Hatters insignia.jpg Top Hatters VE-7
TS-1
Air Det Pac Flt: Sep 1919-15 Jun 1920
VT-5(1st): 15 Jun 1920-7 Sep 1921
VP-1-4: 7 Dec 1921-23 Sep 1921
VF-4(1st): 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922
VF-1(1st): 1 Jul 1922 – 1 Jul 1927
VF-1B(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1934
VB-2B: 1 Jul 1934-1 Jul 1937
VB-3: 1 Jul 1937-1 Jul 1939
VB-4: 1 Jul 1939-15 Mar 1941
VS-41(2nd): 15 Mar 1941-1 Mar 1943
VB-41: 1 Mar 1943-4 Aug 1943
VB-4: 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946
VA-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948
VA-14: 2 Aug 1948-15 Dec 1949
VF-14(2nd): 15 Dec 1949-1 Dec 2001
VFA-14: 1 Dec 2001–present
VFA-14Not applicable, still existsOldest continuously active aircraft squadron in the U.S. Navy
Provided fighters to Battle Ships. [5] Began operating aboard USS Langley (CV 1) in 1926 [6]
VF-2
(first use)
VF-2 first.jpg VE-7
F6C-2
Combat Squadron 4: 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922
VF-2(1st): 1 Jul 1922 – 19 Mar 1923
VF-2B(1st): 19 Mar 1923-1 Jan 1927
VF-6B(1st): 1 Jan 1927-1 Jul 1927
VF-6(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1928
VB-2B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930
VF-6B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-1 Jul 1937
VF-3(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943
VF-6(3rd): 15 Jul 1943 – 1 Oct 1945
VF-6 (3rd)1 October 1945
VF-2B
(1923-7)

(first use)
VF-2 first.jpg FU-1
F6C-4
Combat Squadron 4: 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922
VF-2(1st): 1 Jul 1922-19 Mar 1923
VF-2B(1st): 19 Mar 1923 – 1 Jan 1927
VF-6B(1st): 1 Jan 1927-1 Jul 1927
VF-6(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1928
VB-2B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930
VF-6B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-1 Jul 1937
VF-3(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943
VF-6(3rd): 15 Jul 1943 – 1 Oct 1945
VF-6 (3rd)1 October 1945Provided fighters to Battle Ships. Operated from USS Langley (CV 1) beginning in 1925. Carrier Aviation's first squadron. [5] Was redesignated VF-6B(1st) on 1 Jan 1927 when a new squadron was established and assigned the designation VF-2(2nd)
VF-2
(1927-42)

(second use)
VF-2 (2nd&3rd) Flying Chiefs.jpeg Flying Chiefs VE-7
F6C
FU-1
[7]
VF-2(2nd): 1 Jan 1927 – 1 Jul 1927
VF-2B(2nd): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1932
VF-2S: 1 Jul 1932-Apr 1933
VF-2B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937
VF-2(3rd): 1 Jul 1937 – 1 Jul 1942
VF-2 (3rd)1 July 1942VF-2(2nd) was established with a majority of enlisted pilots, most of them Chief Petty Officers [7]
VF-3
(first use)
VF-3(1st): 1 Jul 1922-May 1924VF-3 (1st)May 1924
VF-5
(first use)
Strike Fighter Squadron 11 (US Navy) insignia, 2015.png Red Rippers F6C-3 VF-5(1st): 1 Feb 1927 – 1 Jul 1927
VF-5S(1st): 1 Jul 1927-Jan 1928
VF-5B(1st): Jan 1928-1 Jul 1928
VB-1B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930
VF-5B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-Jul 1932
VF-5S(2nd): Jul 1932-Apr 1933
VF-5B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937
VF-4(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941
VF-41(1st): 15 Mar 1941-4 Aug 1943
VF-4(4th): 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946
VF-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948
VF-11(2nd): 2 Aug 1948 – 15 Feb 1959
VF-11 (2nd)15 February 1959Original "Red Rippers" squadron
VF-6B
(first use)
FU-1 Combat Squadron 4: 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922
VF-2(1st): 1 Jul 1922-19 Mar 1923
VF-2B(1st): 19 Mar 1923-1 Jan 1927
VF-6B(1st): 1 Jan 1927 – 1 Jul 1927
VF-6(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1928
VB-2B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930
VF-6B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-1 Jul 1937
VF-3(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943
VF-6(3rd): 15 Jul 1943 – 1 Oct 1945
VF-6 (3rd)1 October 1945VF-2B(1st) was redesignated VF-6B(1st) on 1 Jan 1927 when a new squadron was established and designated VF-2(2nd). Operated from USS Langley (CV 1)
1 July 1927 to 1 July 1937: Suffix letters were added to squadron designations which denoted to which fleet squadrons were assigned: B-Battle Fleet and S-Scouting Fleet. [8] Squadrons were redesignated as they were reassigned between fleets. Four new squadrons were established and three new Aircraft Carriers commissioned; USS Lexington (CV 2) on 14 Dec 1927, USS Saratoga (CV 3) on 16 Nov 1927 and USS Ranger (CV 4) on 4 Jun 1934. Squadrons were assigned variously to the Aircraft Carriers USS Langley (CV 1), USS Lexington (CV 2), USS Saratoga (CV 3) and USS Ranger (CV 4) as needed to continue the development of ship based aircraft operations and tactics.
VF-1B
(first use)
VF-1 High Hatters insignia.jpg Top Hatters TS-1
F2B
F4B
Air Det Pac Flt: Sep 1919-15 Jun 1920
VT-5(1st): 15 Jun 1920-7 Sep 1921
VP-1-4: 7 Dec 1921-23 Sep 1921
VF-4(1st): 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922
VF-1(1st): 1 Jul 1922-1 Jul 1927
VF-1B(1st): 1 Jul 1927 – 1 Jul 1934
VB-2B: 1 Jul 1934-1 Jul 1937
VB-3: 1 Jul 1937-1 Jul 1939
VB-4: 1 Jul 1939-15 Mar 1941
VS-41(2nd): 15 Mar 1941-1 Mar 1943
VB-41: 1 Mar 1943-4 Aug 1943
VB-4: 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946
VA-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948
VA-14: 2 Aug 1948-15 Dec 1949
VF-14(2nd): 15 Dec 1949-1 Dec 2001
VFA-14: 1 Dec 2001–present
VFA-14Not applicable, still existsOldest continuously active aircraft squadron in the U.S. Navy. Operated from USS Langley (CV 1) and USS Saratoga (CV 3)
VF-1B
(1935-7)

(second use)
Shooting Stars F4B VF-1B(2nd):1 Jul 1935 – 1 Jul 1937
VF-6(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943
VF-3(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946
VF-3A: 15 Nov 1946-7 Aug 1948
VF-31(2nd): 7 Aug 1948-2006
VFA-31: 2006–present
VFA-31Not applicable, still existsEstablished and designated VF-1B(2nd) when VF-1B(1st) was redesignated a Bombing (VB) squadron. Operated from USS Langley (CV 1)
VF-2B
(1927-42)

(second use)
VF-2 (2nd&3rd) Flying Chiefs.jpeg Flying Chiefs [7] F6C
F2B
F3B
[7]
VF-2(2nd): 1 Jan 1927-1 Jul 1927
VF-2B(2nd): 1 Jul 1927 – 1 Jul 1932
VF-2S: 1 Jul 1932-Apr 1933
VF-2B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937
VF-2(3rd): 1 Jul 1937 – 1 Jul 1942
VF-2 (3rd)1 July 1942Operated from USS Langley (CV 1) and USS Lexington (CV 2)
VF-2S VF-2 (2nd&3rd) Flying Chiefs.jpeg Flying Chiefs [7] F3B VF-2(2nd): 1 Jan 1927-1 Jul 1927
VF-2B(2nd): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1932
VF-2S: 1 Jul 1932-Apr 1933
VF-2B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937
VF-2(3rd): 1 Jul 1937 – 1 Jul 1942
VF-2 (3rd)1 July 1942Operated from USS Lexington (CV 2)
VF-2B
(1927-42)

(third use)
VF-2 (2nd&3rd) Flying Chiefs.jpeg Flying Chiefs [7] F3B VF-2(2nd): 1 Jan 1927-1 Jul 1927
VF-2B(2nd): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1932
VF-2S: 1 Jul 1932-Apr 1933
VF-2B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937
VF-2(3rd): 1 Jul 1937 – 1 Jul 1942
VF-2 (3rd)1 July 1942Operated from USS Lexington (CV 2)
VF-3S
(first use)
VF-5 second & third.jpg Striking Eagles F6C
FB
VF-3S(1st): 4 Jul 1927 – 3 Mar 1928
VF-3B(1st): 3 Mar 1928-Apr 1931
VF-3S(2nd): Apr 1931-Jul 1932
VF-3B(2nd): Jul 1932-1 Jul 1937
VF-5(2nd): 1 Jul 1937 – 7 Jan 1943
VF-5 (2nd)7 January 1943Operated from USS Lexington (CV 2)
VF-3B
(first use)
VF-5 second & third.jpg Striking Eagles FB
F3B
VF-3S(1st): 4 Jul 1927-3 Mar 1928
VF-3B(1st): 3 Mar 1928-Apr 1931
VF-3S(2nd): Apr 1931-Jul 1932
VF-3B(2nd): Jul 1932-1 Jul 1937
VF-5(2nd): 1 Jul 1937 – 7 Jan 1943
VF-5 (2nd)7 January 1943Operated from USS Lexington (CV 2)
VF-3S
(second use)
VF-5 second & third.jpg Striking Eagles F3B VF-3S(1st): 4 Jul 1927-3 Mar 1928
VF-3B(1st): 3 Mar 1928-Apr 1931
VF-3S(2nd): Apr 1931-Jul 1932
VF-3B(2nd): Jul 1932-1 Jul 1937
VF-5(2nd): 1 Jul 1937 – 7 Jan 1943
VF-5 (2nd)7 January 1943Operated from USS Langley (CV 1)
VF-3B
(second use)
VF-5 second & third.jpg Striking Eagles F4B
F2F
VF-3S(1st): 4 Jul 1927-3 Mar 1928
VF-3B(1st): 3 Mar 1928-Apr 1931
VF-3S(2nd): Apr 1931-Jul 1932
VF-3B(2nd): Jul 1932-1 Jul 1937
VF-5(2nd): 1 Jul 1937 – 7 Jan 1943
VF-5 (2nd)7 January 1943Operated from USS Langley (CV 1) and USS Ranger (CV 4)
VF-5S
(first use)
Strike Fighter Squadron 11 (US Navy) insignia, 2015.png Red Rippers F6C-3 VF-5(1st): 1 Feb 1927-1 Jul 1927
VF-5S(1st): 1 Jul 1927-Jan 1928
VF-5B(1st): Jan 1928-1 Jul 1928
VB-1B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930
VF-5B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-Jul 1932
VF-5S(2nd): Jul 1932-Apr 1933
VF-5B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937
VF-4(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941
VF-41(1st): 15 Mar 1941-4 Aug 1943
VF-4(4th): 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946
VF-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948
VF-11(2nd): 2 Aug 1948 – 15 Feb 1959
VF-11 (2nd)15 February 1959Original "Red Rippers" squadron
VF-5B
(first use)
Strike Fighter Squadron 11 (US Navy) insignia, 2015.png Red Rippers F6C-3 VF-5(1st): 1 Feb 1927-1 Jul 1927
VF-5S(1st): 1 Jul 1927-Jan 1928
VF-5B(1st): Jan 1928-1 Jul 1928
VB-1B : 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930
VF-5B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-Jul 1932
VF-5S(2nd): Jul 1932-Apr 1933
VF-5B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937
VF-4(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941
VF-41(1st): 15 Mar 1941-4 Aug 1943
VF-4(4th): 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946
VF-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948
VF-11(2nd): 2 Aug 1948 – 15 Feb 1959
VF-11 (2nd)15 February 1959Original "Red Rippers" squadron
VF-5B
(1930-2)

(second use)
Strike Fighter Squadron 11 (US Navy) insignia, 2015.png Red Rippers F4B-1 VF-5(1st): 1 Feb 1927-1 Jul 1927
VF-5S(1st): 1 Jul 1927-Jan 1928
VF-5B(1st): Jan 1928-1 Jul 1928
VB-1B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930
VF-5B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-Jul 1932
VF-5S(2nd): Jul 1932-Apr 1933
VF-5B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937
VF-4(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941
VF-41(1st): 15 Mar 1941-4 Aug 1943
VF-4(4th): 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946
VF-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948
VF-11(2nd): 2 Aug 1948 – 15 Feb 1959
VF-11 (2nd)15 February 1959Original "Red Rippers" squadron. Operated from USS Lexington (CV 2)
VF-5S
(1932-3)

(second use)
Strike Fighter Squadron 11 (US Navy) insignia, 2015.png Red Rippers F4B-1 VF-5(1st): 1 Feb 1927-1 Jul 1927
VF-5S(1st): 1 Jul 1927-Jan 1928
VF-5B(1st): Jan 1928-1 Jul 1928
VB-1B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930
VF-5B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-Jul 1932
VF-5S(2nd): Jul 1932-Apr 1933
VF-5B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937
VF-4(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941
VF-41(1st): 15 Mar 1941-4 Aug 1943
VF-4(4th): 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946
VF-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948
VF-11(2nd): 2 Aug 1948 – 15 Feb 1959
VF-11 (2nd)15 February 1959Original "Red Rippers" squadron. Operated from USS Lexington (CV 2)
VF-5B
(1933-7)

(third use)
Strike Fighter Squadron 11 (US Navy) insignia, 2015.png Red Rippers FF-1
F3F-1
VF-5(1st): 1 Feb 1927-1 Jul 1927
VF-5S(1st): 1 Jul 1927-Jan 1928
VF-5B(1st): Jan 1928-1 Jul 1928
VB-1B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930
VF-5B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-Jul 1932
VF-5S(2nd): Jul 1932-Apr 1933
VF-5B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937
VF-4(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941
VF-41(1st): 15 Mar 1941-4 Aug 1943
VF-4(4th): 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946
VF-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948
VF-11(2nd): 2 Aug 1948 – 15 Feb 1959
VF-11 (2nd)15 February 1959Original "Red Rippers" squadron. Operated from USS Lexington (CV 2) and USS Ranger (CV 4)
VF-6
(first use)
FU-1 Combat Squadron 4: 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922
VF-2(1st): 1 Jul 1922-19 Mar 1923
VF-2B(1st): 19 Mar 1923-1 Jan 1927
VF-6B(1st): 1 Jan 1927-1 Jul 1927
VF-6(1st): 1 Jul 1927 – 1 Jul 1928
VB-2B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930
VF-6B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-1 Jul 1937
VF-3(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943
VF-6(3rd): 15 Jul 1943 – 1 Oct 1945
VF-6 (3rd)1 October 1945Provided fighters to Battle Ships.
VF-6B
(1930-7)

(second use)
Vf2b vf3 vf6b 1928 insig.jpg F2B
F3B
F2F
Combat Squadron 4: 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922
VF-2(1st): 1 Jul 1922-19 Mar 1923
VF-2B(1st): 19 Mar 1923-1 Jan 1927
VF-6B(1st): 1 Jan 1927-1 Jul 1927
VF-6(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1928
VB-2B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930
VF-6B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930 – 1 Jul 1937
VF-3(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943
VF-6(3rd): 15 Jul 1943 – 1 Oct 1945
VF-6 (3rd)1 October 1945The Felix the Cat insignia was created by VB-2B and continued in use through VF-6B(2nd), VF-3(2nd) and VF-6(3rd) redesignations. Operated from USS Saratoga (CV 3)
VF-7B F2F VF-7B est late Jun 1937 & combined with VF-3B(2nd)
VF-3B(2nd): Jul 1932-1 Jul 1937
VF-5(2nd): 1 Jul 1937 – 7 Jan 1943
VF-5 (2nd)7 January 1943
VF-8B F4B VF-8B est late Jun 1937 & combined with VF-1B(2nd)
VF-1B(2nd):1 Jul 1935-1 Jul 1937
VF-6(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943
VF-3(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946
VF-3A: 15 Nov 1946-7 Aug 1948
VF-31(2nd): 7 Aug 1948-2006
VFA-31: 2006–present
VFA-31Not applicable, still exists
1 Jul 1937 through 1 Mar 1943: Squadron suffix letters were discontinued. Squadrons were redesignated to conform with the hull number of the Aircraft Carrier to which they were assigned: [8] CV 2, CV 3, CV 4 and CV 5 (USS Yorktown (CV 5) was commissioned on 30 Sep 1937). USS Langley (CV 1) had ceased operating as an Aircraft Carrier by October 1936 and had been converted to a Seaplane Tender
Ship Named Air Groups: On 1 July 1938 existing squadrons were assigned to five newly established "Air Groups" which were established to operate from USS Lexington (CV 2), USS Saratoga (CV 3), USS Ranger (CV 4), USS Yorktown (CV 5) and USS Enterprise (CV 6) (USS Enterprise was commissioned on 12 May 1938). The Air Groups were designated with the Aircraft Carrier's name (Lexington Air Group, Saratoga Air Group etc...) and the squadrons remained designated with the aircraft carrier's hull number (Lexington Air Group: VF-2, Saratoga Air Group: VF-3 etc...). Two new VF squadrons were established in 1939 and 1941 to equip two new Air Groups which were established in 1939 and 1941 to operate with USS Wasp (CV 7) and USS Hornet (CV 8) which were commissioned in 1940 and 1941 respectively
VF-2
(1927-42)

(third use)
VF-2 (2nd&3rd) Flying Chiefs.jpeg Flying Chiefs [7] F2A
F4F
VF-2(2nd): 1 Jan 1927-1 Jul 1927
VF-2B(2nd): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1932
VF-2S: 1 Jul 1932-Apr 1933
VF-2B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937
VF-2(3rd): 1 Jul 1937 – 1 Jul 1942
VF-2 (3rd)1 July 1942Became Lexington Air Group's VF squadron upon Lexington Air Group's establishment on 1 July 1938. Lexington Air Group disestablished 8 May 1942 when USS Lexington was sunk
VF-3
(1937-43)

(second use)
Vf2b vf3 vf6b 1928 insig.jpg F2F
F4F
Combat Squadron 4: 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922
VF-2(1st): 1 Jul 1922-19 Mar 1923
VF-2B(1st): 19 Mar 1923-1 Jan 1927
VF-6B(1st): 1 Jan 1927-1 Jul 1927
VF-6(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1928
VB-2B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930
VF-6B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-1 Jul 1937
VF-3(2nd): 1 Jul 1937 – 15 Jul 1943
VF-6(3rd): 15 Jul 1943 – 1 Oct 1945
VF-6 (3rd)1 October 1945Became Saratoga Air Group's first VF-3 upon Saratoga Air Group's establishment on 1 July 1938. Transferred from Saratoga Air Group to CVG-6(1st) 15 July 43 redesignated VF-6(3rd)
The Felix the Cat insignia was created by VB-2B and continued in use through VF-6B(2nd), VF-3(2nd) and VF-6(3rd) redesignations
VF-4
(1937-41)

(second use)
Strike Fighter Squadron 11 (US Navy) insignia, 2015.png Red Rippers F3F
F4F
VF-5(1st): 1 Feb 1927-1 Jul 1927
VF-5S(1st): 1 Jul 1927-Jan 1928
VF-5B(1st): Jan 1928-1 Jul 1928
VB-1B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930
VF-5B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-Jul 1932
VF-5S(2nd): Jul 1932-Apr 1933
VF-5B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937
VF-4(2nd): 1 Jul 1937 – 15 Mar 1941
VF-41(1st): 15 Mar 1941-4 Aug 1943
VF-4(4th): 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946
VF-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948
VF-11(2nd): 2 Aug 1948 – 15 Feb 1959
VF-11 (2nd)15 February 1959Original "Red Rippers" squadron.
Became Ranger Air Group's VF squadron upon Ranger Air Group's establishment on 1 July 1938
VF-41
(first use)
Strike Fighter Squadron 11 (US Navy) insignia, 2015.png Red Rippers F4F VF-5(1st): 1 Feb 1927-1 Jul 1927
VF-5S(1st): 1 Jul 1927-Jan 1928
VF-5B(1st): Jan 1928-1 Jul 1928
VB-1B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930
VF-5B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-Jul 1932
VF-5S(2nd): Jul 1932-Apr 1933
VF-5B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937
VF-4(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941
VF-41(1st): 15 Mar 1941 – 4 Aug 1943
VF-4(4th): 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946
VF-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948
VF-11(2nd): 2 Aug 1948 – 15 Feb 1959
VF-11 (2nd)15 February 1959Original "Red Rippers" squadron.
VF-4(2nd) was redesignated VF-41 when the group's scouting squadron (VS-4) was redesignated as a second VF squadron in the Air Group. Ranger Air Group redesignated CVG-4(1st) on 3 Aug 1943
VF-42
(first use)
Fighting Squadron 42 (United States Navy) patch c1940.png F4F VS-1B: May 1928 – 1930
VS-1S: 1930-1931
VS-1B: 1931-1 Jul 1937
VS-41(1st): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941
VF-42(1st): 15 Mar 1941 – 22 Jun 1942
VF-42 (1st)22 June 1942Ranger Air Group's scouting squadron (VS-4) was redesigned as a second VF squadron in the Air Group
VF-5
(1937-43)

(second use)
VF-5 second & third.jpg Striking Eagles F2F
F3F
F4F
VF-3S(1st): 4 Jul 1927-3 Mar 1928
VF-3B(1st): 3 Mar 1928-Apr 1931
VF-3S(2nd): Apr 1931-Jul 1932
VF-3B(2nd): Jul 1932-1 Jul 1937
VF-5(2nd): 1 Jul 1937 – 7 Jan 1943
VF-5 (2nd)7 January 1943Became Yorktown Air Group's VF squadron upon Yorktown Air Group's establishment on 1 July 1938. Yorktown Air Group disestablished 7 Jun 1942 when USS Yorktown was sunk
VF-6
(1937-43)

(second use)
VF-6 shooting stars insignia.jpeg Shooting Stars F3F
F4F
VF-1B(2nd):1 Jul 1935-1 Jul 1937
VF-6(2nd): 1 Jul 1937 – 15 Jul 1943
VF-3(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946
VF-3A: 15 Nov 1946-7 Aug 1948
VF-31(2nd): 7 Aug 1948-2006
VFA-31: 2006–present
VFA-31Not applicable, still existsBecame Enterprise Air Group's VF squadron upon Enterprise Air Group's establishment on 1 July 1938. Enterprise Air Group disestablished 1 Sep 1942 while USS Enterprise was undergoing major repairs of damage suffered in Aug 1942. On 15 Mar 1943 CVG-6(1st) was established and the squadron was assigned to it, then four months later was transferred to Saratoga Air Group and became that air group's second VF-3. When it became Saratoga's second VF-3 (VF-3(3rd)) it adopted the felix the cat insignia from Saratoga's first VF-3 (VF-3(2nd)) but that first Saratoga VF-3 also kept the felix the cat insignia when it moved to Enterprise as VF-6(3rd)
VF-7
(first use)
Insignia of the first u s navy suadron VF-7.jpg F3F VF-7(1st): 1 July 1939 – 19 Nov 1940
VF-72(1st): 19 Nov 1940 – 29 Mar 1943
VF-72 (1st)29 March 1943Established as Wasp Air Group's VF squadron upon Wasp Air Group's establishment on 1 July 1939
VF-71
(first use)
VF-71 Wasp Air Grop.JPG F4F VB-7: 1 Jul 1939-5 Nov 1940
VF-71(1st): 5 Nov 1940 – 7 Jan 1943
VF-71 (1st)7 January 1943Wasp Air Group's bombing squadron (VB-7) was redesignated as a second VF squadron in the Air Group. Wasp Air Group disestablished 15 Sep 1942 when USS Wasp was sunk
VF-72
(first use)
VF-72 Wasp Air Grop.jpeg F4F VF-7(1st): 1 July 1939-19 Nov 1940
VF-72(1st): 19 Nov 1940 – 29 Mar 1943
VF-72 (1st)29 March 1943VF-7(1st) was redesignated VF-72 when the group's bombing squadron (VB-7) was redesignated as a second VF squadron in the Air Group. Wasp Air Group disestablished 15 Sep 1942 when USS Wasp was sunk
VF-8
(1941-2)

(first use)
F4F VF-8(1st): 2 Sep 1941 – 28 Aug 1942VF-8 (1st)28 August 1942Established as Hornet Air Group's VF squadron in preparation for Hornet Air Group's establishment on 20 October 1941. Hornet Air Group disestablished 26 Oct 1942 when USS Hornet was sunk
Lexington Air Group, Yorktown Air Group, Wasp Air Group and Hornet Air Group were disestablished in 1942 when USS Lexington, USS Yorktown, USS Wasp and USS Hornet were sunk. Enterprise Air Group was disestablished in Sep 1942 while USS Enterprise was undergoing repairs of major damage suffered in Aug 1942 and Saratoga Air Group and Ranger Air Group were redesignated CVG-3 and CVG-4 in Aug and Sep of 1943 respectively.
1 Mar 1943 to 15 Nov 1946: The squadron designation system was changed to cease numbering squadrons with the hull number of the ship to which it was assigned and newly established squadrons were numbered serially within each class. [8] One year earlier, on 1 March 1942 new Numbered Carrier Air Groups were established, the first was CVG-9(1st) on 1 Mar 1942. Eighty eight numbered Air Groups were established during the course of WWII: CVGs were assigned to Essex Class "fleet carriers" and to CV 3, CV 4 and CV 6 which were the three pre-WWII Carriers which had not been sunk; CVBGs were assigned to Midway Class "large carriers" toward the end of the war; CVLGs were assigned to Independence class "light carriers"; and CVEGs were assigned to small "escort carriers". Each group's squadrons were all designated with that group's number and each Air Group had one VF squadron assigned. VF-1 belonged to CVG-1 etc...). A squadron reassigned from one group to another was redesignated to conform with the designation of the new group.
VF-1
(1943)

(second use)
VF-5 Yorktown Fighting Hellcats.jpeg Fighting Hellcats F6F VF-1(2nd): 15 Feb 1943 – 15 Jul 1943
VF-5(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946
VF-5A: 15 Nov 1946-16 Aug 1948
VF-51(2nd): 16 Aug 1948 – 31 Mar 1995
VF-51 (2nd)31 March 1995In the first six months of 1943 there were twelve new VF squadrons and eleven new Air Groups established and numbered. In a few cases a squadron was designated intended for one Air Group but assigned to another and redesignated. VF-1(2nd) was established in Feb but redesignated VF-5(3rd) on 15 July 1943 and assigned to CVG-5(1st) which had been established on 1 Jan 1943
VF-1
(1943-5)

(third use)
VF-4 VF-1 High Hatters.jpeg High Hatters F6F VF-4(3rd): 1 May 1943-15 Jul 1943
VF-1(3rd): 15 Jul 1943 – 25 Oct 1945
VF-1 (3rd)25 October 1945In the first six months of 1943 there were twelve new VF squadrons and eleven new Air Groups established and numbered. In a few cases a squadron was designated intended for one Air Group but assigned to another and redesignated. VF-4(3rd) was established in May but redesignated VF-1(3rd) on 15 July 1943 and assigned to CVG-1(1st) which had been established on 1 May 1943.
CVG-1(1st) disestablished 25 Oct 1945.
In 1934 the original VF-4 (by then the original VF-1) "Top Hatters" was redesignated as a Bombing Squadron (VB). The "Top Hatters" were still a VB squadron when this squadron was established as VF-4 and the name and insignia adopted by this VF squadron very closely imitated the name and insignia of that original VF-4/original VF-1
VF-2
(1943-5)

(fourth use)
VF-2 Rippers.jpeg Rippers [9] FM-1
F6F
VF-2(4th): 1 Jun 1943 – 9 Nov 1945VF-2 (4th)9 November 1945CVG-2(1st) established 1 Jun 1943, disestablished 9 Nov 1945
VF-3
(1943-6)

(third use)
Vf2b vf3 vf6b 1928 insig.jpg Shooting Stars F6F VF-1B(2nd):1 Jul 1935-1 Jul 1937
VF-6(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943
VF-3(3rd): 15 Jul 1943 – 15 Nov 1946
VF-3A: 15 Nov 1946-7 Aug 1948
VF-31(2nd): 7 Aug 1948-2006
VFA-31: 2006–present
VFA-31Not applicable, still existsSaratoga Air Group's second VF-3 until 25 Sep 1943 when Saratoga Air Group was redesignated CVG-3(1st) at which time the squadron became the VF squadron of CVG-3(1st). CVG-3(1st) redesignated CVAG-3 15 Nov 1946.
On 15 Jul 1943 VF-3(2nd) and VF-6(2nd) swapped designations with VF-3(2nd) becoming VF-6(3rd) and VF-6(2nd) becoming VF-3(3rd). The new VF-3(3rd) laid claim to VF-3(2nd)'s Felix the Cat insignia and both squadrons used it until the original owner (then VF-6(3rd)) was disestablished leaving it with VF-3(3rd) which was later redesignated VF-3A, VF-31(2nd) and is today VFA-31.
VF-4
(1943-5)

(third use)
VF-4 VF-1 High Hatters.jpeg High Hatters F6F VF-4(3rd): 1 May 1943 – 15 Jul 1943
VF-1(3rd): 15 Jul 1943 – 25 Oct 1945
VF-1 (3rd)25 October 1945In the first six months of 1943 there were twelve new VF squadrons and eleven new Air Groups established and numbered. In a few cases a squadron was designated intended for one Air Group but assigned to another and redesignated. VF-4(3rd) was established in May but redesignated VF-1(3rd) on 15 July 1943 and assigned to CVG-1(1st) which had been established on 1 May 1943.
In 1934 the original VF-4 (by then the original VF-1) "Top Hatters" was redesignated as a Bombing Squadron (VB). The "Top Hatters" were still a VB squadron when this squadron was established as VF-4 and the name and insignia adopted by this VF squadron very closely imitated the name and insignia of that original VF-4/original VF-1
VF-4
(1943-6)

(fourth use)
Strike Fighter Squadron 11 (US Navy) insignia, 2015.png Red Rippers F4F
F6F
VF-5(1st): 1 Feb 1927-1 Jul 1927
VF-5S(1st): 1 Jul 1927-Jan 1928
VF-5B(1st): Jan 1928-1 Jul 1928
VB-1B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930
VF-5B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-Jul 1932
VF-5S(2nd): Jul 1932-Apr 1933
VF-5B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937
VF-4(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941
VF-41(1st): 15 Mar 1941-4 Aug 1943
VF-4(4th): 4 Aug 1943 – 15 Nov 1946
VF-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948
VF-11(2nd): 2 Aug 1948 – 15 Feb 1959
VF-11 (2nd)15 February 1959Original "Red Rippers" squadron.
Ranger Air Group was redesignated CVG-4(1st) on 3 Aug 1942 and its VF squadron, VF-41(1st) was redesignated VF-4(4th). CVG-4(1st) redesignated CVAG-1 15 Nov 1946
VF-5
(1943-6)

(third use)
VF-5 Yorktown Fighting Hellcats.jpeg
VF-5 second & third.jpg
(Adopted from disestablished VF-5(2nd))
Fighting Hellcats
Screaming Eagles
F6F
F4U
VF-1(2nd): 15 Feb 1943-15 Jul 1943
VF-5(3rd): 15 Jul 1943 – 15 Nov 1946
VF-5A: 15 Nov 1946-16 Aug 1948
VF-51(2nd): 16 Aug 1948 – 31 Mar 1995
VF-51 (2nd)31 March 1995In the first six months of 1943 there were twelve new VF squadrons and eleven new Air Groups established and numbered. In a few cases a squadron was designated intended for one Air Group but assigned to another and redesignated. VF-1(2nd) was established in Feb but redesignated VF-5(3rd) on 15 July 1943 and assigned to CVG-5(1st) which had been established on 1 Jan 1943. CVG-5(1st) redesignated CVAG-5 15 Nov 1946
VF-6
(1943-4)

(third use)
Vf2b vf3 vf6b 1928 insig.jpg F4F Combat Squadron 4: 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922
VF-2(1st): 1 Jul 1922-19 Mar 1923
VF-2B(1st): 19 Mar 1923-1 Jan 1927
VF-6B(1st): 1 Jan 1927-1 Jul 1927
VF-6(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1928
VB-2B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930
VF-6B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-1 Jul 1937
VF-3(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943
VF-6(3rd): 15 Jul 1943 – 1 Oct 1945
VF-6 (3rd)1 October 1946Replaced VF-6(2nd) in CVG-6(1st) when VF-6(2nd) was moved to Saratoga Air Group. CVG-6(1st) disestablished 29 Oct 1945.
The Felix the Cat insignia was created by VB-2B and continued in use through VF-6B(2nd), VF-3(2nd) and VF-6(3rd) redesignations
VF-7
(1944-6)

(second use)
Insignia of the second u s navy squadron VF-7.jpeg F6F VF-7(2nd) 3 Jan 1944 – 8 Jun 1946VF-7 (2nd)8 June 1946CVG-7(1st) established 3 Jan 1944, disestablished 8 Jul 1946
VF-8
(1943-5)

(second use)
VF-8 WWII.jpeg Hellcats F6F VF-8(2nd) 1 Jun 1943 – 23 Nov 1945VF-8 (2nd)23 November 1945CVG-8(1st) established 1 Jun 1943, disestablished 23 Nov 1945
VF-9 VF-9 WWII.jpeg F2A
F4F
F6F
VF-9: 1 Mar 1942 – 28 Sep 1945VF-928 September 1945CVG-9(1st) established 1 Mar 1942, disestablished 15 Oct 1945
VF-10 Vf-10.jpg Grim Reapers F4F
F6F
F4U
VF-10: 3 Jun 1942 – 26 Nov 1945
VF-1026 November 1945CVG-10(1st) established 16 Apr 1942, disestablished 16 Nov 1945
VF-11
(first use)
VF-11 WWII sundowners.jpg Sundowners F4F
F6F
VF-11(1st): 10 Oct 1942 – 15 Nov 1946
VF-11A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948
VF-111(1st)15 Jul 1948 – 19 Jan 1959
VF-111 (1st)19 Jan 1959CVG-11(1st) established 10 Oct 1942, redesignated CVAG-11 15 Nov 1946.
First "Sundowners" squadron, name and insignia created by VF-11(1st) and carried through VF-11A and VF-111(1st) redesignations
VF-12
(first use)
Insignia of U.S. Navy Fighter Squadron VF-12 (1943-1945).jpg F6F VF-12(1st): 9 Jan 1943 – 17 Sep 1945VF-12 (1st)17 September 1945CVG-12(1st) established 9 Jan 1943, disestablished 17 Sep 1945
VF-13
(first use)
VF-13 WWII.jpeg Black Cats F6F VF-13(1st): 2 Nov 1943 – 20 Oct 1945VF-13 (1st)20 October 1945CVG-13(1st) established 2 Nov 1943, disestablished 20 Oct 1945
VF-14
(first use)
F6F VF-14(1st): 1 Sep 1943 – 14 Jun 1946VF-14 (1st)14 June 1946CVG-14(1st) established 1 Sep 1943, disestablished 14 Jun 1945
VF-15 VF-15 WWII.jpeg Satan's Playmates F6F VF-15: 1 Sep 1943 – 20 Oct 1945VF-1520 October 1945CVG-15(1st) established 1 Sep 1942, disestablished 20 Oct 1945
VF-16 Fighting Airedales F6F VF-16: 16 Nov 1942 – 6 Nov 1945VF-166 November 1945CVG-16(1st) established 16 Nov 1942, disestablished 6 Nov 1945
VF-17 VF-17 WWII jolly rogers.jpeg Jolly Rogers F4U-1
F6F-5
VF-17: 1 Jan 1943 – 15 Nov 1946
VF-5B(4th): 15 Nov 1946-28 Jul 1948
VF-61: 28 Jul 1948 – 15 Apr 1959
VF-6115 April 1959CVG-17(1st) established 1 Jan 1943, redesignated CVBG-17 23 Jan 1946, redesignated CVBG-5 14 Nov 1946.
Original "Jolly Rogers" squadron. Name carried through VF-5B(4th) and VF-61 redesignations
VF-18
(first use)
F6F VF-18: 20 Jul 1943 – 5 Mar 1944VF-18 (1st)5 March 1944CVG-18 established 2 Jul 1943
VF-18
(1944-6)

(second use)
F4F
F6F
F8F
VGS-18: 15 Oct 1942-1 Mar 1943
VC-18: 1 Mar 1943-15 Aug 1943
VF-36(1st): 15 Aug 1943-5 Mar 1944
VF-18(2nd): 5 Mar 1944 – 15 Nov 1946
VF-7A: 15 Nov 1946-28 Jul 1948
VF-71(2nd): 28 Jul 1948 – 31 Mar 1959
VF-71 (2nd)31 March 1959Replaced VF-18(1st) in CVG-18. CVG-18 redesignated CVAG-7 15 Nov 1946
VF-19 VF-19 WWII.jpg Satan's Kittens F6F VF-19: 15 Aug 1943 – 15 Nov 1946
VF-19A: 15 Nov 1946-24 Aug 1948
VF-191(1st): 24 Aug 1948 – 1 Mar 1978
VF-191 (1st)1 March 1978CVG-19(1st) established 1 Aug 1943, redesignated CVAG-19 15 Nov 1946
VF-20 VF-20 WWII jokers.jpg
VF-20 Feb 1946.jpeg
(1946)
Jokers F6F VF-20: 15 Oct 1943 – 15 Nov 1946
VF-9A: 15 Nov 1946-12 Aug 1948
VF-91(1st): 12 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950
VF-34(3rd): 15 Feb 1950-1 Jul 1955
VA-34(2nd): 1 Jul 1955 – 1 Jun 1969
VA-34 (2nd)1 June 1969CVG-20 established 15 Oct 1943, redesignated CVAG-9 15 Nov 1946
VF-21
(first use)
F4F
F6F
VGS-11: 5 Aug 1942-1 Mar 1943
VC-11(1st): 1 Mar 1943-16 May 1943
VF-21(1st): 16 May 1943 – 5 Nov 1945
VF-21 (1st)5 November 1945CVLG-21 stablished 15 May 1943, disestablished 5 Nov 1945
VF-22
(1942-5)

(first use)
F4F
F6F
VF-22(1st): 30 Sep 1942 – 19 Sep 1945VF-22 (1st)19 September 1945CVLG-22 established 30 Sep 1943, disestablished 15 Sep 1945
VF-23
(1942-5)

(first use)
F6F VF-23(1st): 16 Nov 1942 – 19 Sep 1945VF-23 (1st)19 September 1945CVLG-23 established 16 Nov 1942, disestablished 19 Sep 1945
VF-24
(1942-5)

(first use)
Insignia of VF-24 WWII.jpeg F6F VF-24(1st) 31 Dec 1942 – 25 Sep 1945VF-24 (1st)25 September 1945CVLG-24 established 31 Dec 1942, disestablished 25 Sep 1945
VF-25 F6F VF-25: 15 Feb 1943 – 20 Sep 1945VF-2520 September 1945CVLG-25 established 15 Feb 1943, redesignated CVEG-25 28 Aug 1944, disestablished 20 Sep 1945
VF-26
(first use)
F4F VGF-26: 4 May 1942-1 Mar 1943
VF-26(1st): 1 Mar 1943 – 13 Nov 1945
VF-26 (1st)13 November 1945In 1943 all "Escort-Fighter squadrons" (VGF) assigned to Escort or Light Carrier Air Groups (CVEG, CVLG) were redesignated Fighting Squadrons (VF).
CVEG-26 established 4 May 1942, disestablished 13 Nov 1945
VF-27 F4F
F6F
VGF-27: 22 Apr 1942-1 Mar 1943
VF-27: 1 Mar 1943 – 26 Nov 1945
VF-2726 November 1945In 1943 all "Escort-Fighter squadrons" (VGF) assigned to Escort or Light Carrier Air Groups (CVEG, CVLG) were redesignated Fighting Squadrons (VF).
CVLG-27 established 1 Mar 1942, disestablished 26 Oct 1945
VF-28 F4F
F6F
VGF-28: 4 May 1942-1 Mar 1943
VF-28: 1 Mar 1943 – 6 Nov 1945
VF-286 November 1945In 1943 all "Escort-Fighter squadrons" (VGF) assigned to Escort or Light Carrier Air Groups (CVEG, CVLG) were redesignated Fighting Squadrons (VF).
CVLG-28 established 6 May 1942, disestablished 6 Nov 1945
VF-29 F4F
F6F
VGF-29: 20 Jul 1942-1 Mar 1943
VF-29: 1 Mar 1943 – 10 Sep 1945
VF-2910 September 1945In 1943 all "Escort-Fighter squadrons" (VGF) assigned to Escort or Light Carrier Air Groups (CVEG, CVLG) were redesignated Fighting Squadrons (VF).
CVLG-29 established 18 Jul 1942, disestablished 10 Sep 1945
VF-30 F6F VF-30: 1 Apr 1943 – 12 Sep 1945VF-3012 September 1945CVLG-30 established 1 Apr 1943, disestablished 12 Sep 1945
VF-31
(1943-5)

(first use)
F6F VF-31: 1 May 1943 – 25 Oct 1945VF-31 (1st)25 October 1945CVLG-31 established 1 May 1943, disestablished 28 Oct 1945
VF-32
(1943-5)

(first use)
F6F VF-32(1st): 1 Jun 1943 – 13 Nov 1945VF-32 (1st)13 November 1945CVLG-32 established 1 Jun 1943, disestablished 13 Nov 1945
VF-33
(1942-5)

(first use)
Hellcats F6F VGS-16: 6 Aug 1942-1 Mar 1943
VC-16: 1 Mar 1943-15 Aug 1943
VF-33(1st): 15 Aug 1943 – 9 Nov 1945
VF-33 (1st)19 November 1945CVEG-33 established 15 May 1944, disestablished 19 Nov 1945
VF-34
(first use)
F6F VGS-34: 24 Feb 1943-1 Mar 1943
VC-34(1st): 1 Mar 1943-15 Aug 1943
VF-34(1st): 15 Aug 1943 – 8 Jul 1944
VF-34 (1st)8 July 1944
VF-34
(1945)

(second use)
F6F VF-34(2nd): 1 Apr 1945 – 5 Dec 1945VF-34 (2nd)5 December 1945CVLG-34 established 1 Apr 1945, disestablished 5 Dec 1945
VF-35 F6F VF-35: 15 Jul 1943 – 19 Nov 1945VF-3519 November 1945CVEG-35 established 15 Jul 1943, disestablished 5 Dec 1945
VF-36
(first use)
F4F VGS-18: 15 Oct 1942-1 Mar 1943
VC-18: 1 Mar 1943-15 Aug 1943
VF-36(1st): 15 Aug 1943 – 5 Mar 1944
VF-18(2nd): 5 Mar 1944-15 Nov 1946
VF-7A: 15 Nov 1946-28 Jul 1948
VF-71(2nd): 28 Jul 1948 – 31 Mar 1959
VF-71 (2nd)31 March 1959
VF-36
(1944-6)

(second use)
F6F VF-36: 15 May 1944 – 28 Jan 1946VF-36 (2nd)28 January 1946CVEG-36 established 15 May 1944, disestablished 28 Jan 1946
VF-37 F6F VF-37: 15 July 1943 – 20 Dec 1945VF-3720 December 1945CVEG-37 established 15 Jul 1943, disestablished 20 Dec 1945
VF-38 VF-38 WWII.jpeg F6F VF-38: 20 Jun 1943 – 31 Jan 1946VF-3831 January 1946CVLG established 16 Jun 1943, redesignated CVEG-38 15 Aug 1944, disestablished 31 Jan 1946
VF-39
(first use)
F6F VC-64: 1 Jun 1943-15 Aug 1943
VF-39(1st): 15 Aug 1943 – 15 Jul 1944
VF-39 (1st)15 July 1944
VF-39
(1945)

(second use)
F6F VF-39(2nd): 15 Mar 1945 – 10 Sep 1945VF-39 (2nd)10 September 1945CVEG established 15 Mar 1945, redesignated CVLG-39 2 Jul 1945, disestablished 10 Sep 1945
VF-40 F6F VF-40: 15 Jun 1943 – 19 Nov 1945VF-4019 November 1945CVEG-40 established 15 Jun 1943, disestablished 19 Nov 1945
VF-41
(1945-6)

(second use)
Firebirds FR-1 VF-41(2nd): 26 Mar 1945 – 15 Nov 1946
VF-1E: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948
VF-1(4th): 1 Sep 1948 – 20 Nov 1948
VF-1 (4th)20 November 1948CVEG-41 established 26 Mar 1945, redesignated CVEG-1 15 Nov 1946
VF-42
(1945-6)

(second use)
F6F VF-42(2nd) 19 Jul 1945 – 15 Nov 1946
VF-2E: 15 Nov 1946-15 Sep 1948
VF-81(2nd): 15 Sep 1948 – 17 Jan 1950
VF-81 (2nd)17 January 1959CVEG-42 established 15 Jul 1945, redesignated CVEG-2 15 Nov 1946
VF-43
(1943)

(first use)
VF-43(1st): 1 Aug 1943 – 8 Nov 1943VF-43 (1st)8 November 1943CVLG-43 established 1 Aug 1943, disestablished 8 Nov 1943
VF-43
(1945-6)

(second use)
VF-43(2nd): 9 Aug 1945 – 17 Jun 1946VF-43 (2nd)17 June 1946CVEG-43 established 9 Aug 1945, disestablished 17 Jun 1946
VF-44
(first use)
F6F VF-44(1st): on 1 Feb 1944 – 18 Sep 1945VF-44 (1st)18 September 1945CVLG-44 established 1 Feb 1944, disestablished 18 Sep 1945
VF-45
(first use)
VF-45 WWII gamecocks.jpg Gamecocks F6F VF-45(1st): 1 Apr 1944 – 10 Sep 1945VF-45 (1st)10 September 1945CVLG-45 established 1 Apr 1944, disestablished 10 Sep 1945
VF-46 Men-O-War F6F VF-46: 15 Apr 1944 – 14 Sep 1945VF-4614 September 1945CVLG-46 established 15 Apr 1944, disestablished 14 Sep 1945
VF-47 F6F VF-47: on 15 May 1944 – 21 Sep 1945VF-4721 September 1945CVLG-47 established 15 Apr 1944, disestablished 21 Sep 1945
VF-48 F6F VF-48: on 15 Jun 1944 – 2 Jan 1945VF-482 January 1945CVLG-48 established 1 Jun 1944, disestablished 2 Jan 1945
VF-49 F6F VF-49: 10 Aug 1944 – 27 Nov 1945VF-4927 November 1945CVEG established 10 Aug 1944, redesignated CVLG-49 1 Jan 1945, disestablished 27 Nov 1945
VF-50 VF-50 WWII.jpeg F6F VF-50: 10 Aug 1943 – 29 Oct 1945VF-5029 October 1945CVLG established 10 Aug 1944, redesignated CVEG-50 1 Oct 1944, disestablished 29 Oct 1945
VF-51
(first use)
F6F VF-51(1st): 22 Sep 1943 – 13 Nov 1945VF-51 (1st)13 November 1945CVLG-51 established 22 Sep 1943, disestablished 13 Nov 1945
VF-52
(1943)

(first use)
VF-52(1st): 1 Sep 1943 – 8 Nov 1943VF-52 (1st)8 November 1943CVLG-52 established 1 Sep 1943, disestablished 8 Nov 1943
VF-52
(1945)

(second use)
VF-52(2nd): 6 Jan 1945 – 25 May 1945VF-52 (2nd)25 May 1945VF squadron assigned to Night Carrier Air Group (CVG(N)) 52 from 6 Jan to 25 May 1945 alongside specialized night fighter VF(N) and night torpedo VT(N) squadrons.
CVLG(N)52 established 20 Oct 1944, redesignated, CVG(N)-52 6 Jan 1945, disestablished 15 Dec 1945
VF-53
(first use)
F6F VF-53(1st): 2 Jan 1945 – 1 Apr 1945
VF-53 (1st)1 April 1945VF squadron assigned to Night Carrier Air Group (CVG(N)) 53 from 2 Jan to 1 Apr 1945 alongside specialized night fighter VF(N) and night torpedo VT(N) squadrons.
CVG(N)-53 established 2 Jan 1945, disestablished 11 Jun 1945
VF-58 F6F VF-58: 15 Mar 1946 – 15 Nov 1946
VF-1L: 15 Nov 1946 – 20 Nov 1948
VF-1L20 November 1948CVLG-58 established 19 Mar 1946, redesignated CVLG-1 15 Nov 1946
VF-60 F6F VF-60: 15 Jul 1943 – 19 Nov 1945VF-6019 November 1945CVEG-60 established 15 Jul 1943, disestablished 19 Nov 1945
VF-66 Firebirds FR-1 VF-66: 1 Jan 1945 – 18 Oct 1945VF-6618 October 1945CVEG-66 established 1 Jan 1945, disestablished 16 Jun 1945
VF-74
(1944)

(first use)
F6F VF-74(1st): 25 Mar 1944 – 1 Oct 1944VF-74 (1st)1 October 1944
VF-74A F4U VF-74A: 1 May 1945 – 1 Aug 1945
VF-74(2nd): 1 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-1B(3rd): 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948
VF-21(2nd): 1 Sep 1948-1 Jul 1959
VA-43: 1 Jul 1959-1 Jun 1973
VF-43(5th): 1 Jun 1973 – 1 Jul 1994
VF-43 (5th)1 July 1994CVBG-74 established 1 May 1945 assigned to a "new" large Midway class carrier and was initially assigned two VF squadrons, VF-74A and VF-74B
VF-74B VF-74B: 1 May 1945 – 1 Aug 1945VF-74B1 August 1945CVBG-74 established 1 May 1945 assigned to a "new" large Midway class carrier and was initially assigned two VF squadrons, VF-74A and VF-74B
VF-74
(1945-6)

(second use)
F4U VF-74A: 1 May 1945-1 Aug 1945
VF-74(2nd): 1 Aug 1945 – 15 Nov 1946
VF-1B(3rd): 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948
VF-21(2nd): 1 Sep 1948-1 Jul 1959
VA-43: 1 Jul 1959-1 Jun 1973
VF-43(5th): 1 Jun 1973 – 1 Jul 1994
VF-43 (5th)1 July 1994The air group's second VF squadron (VF-74B) was disestablished and remaining squadron (VF-74A) was redesignated VF-74 as the single VF squadron of CVBG-74. CVBG-74 redesignated CVBG-1 15 Nov 1946
VF-75A Gay Blades F4U VF-75A: 1 Jun 1945 – 1 Aug 1945
VF-75: 1 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-3B(3rd): 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948
VF-41(3rd): 1 Sep 1948-Jun 1950
VF-41 (3rd)June 1950CVBG-75 established 1 Jun 1945 assigned to a "new" large Midway class carrier and was initially assigned two VF squadrons, VF-75A and VF-75B
VF-75B VF-75B: 1 Jun 1945 – 1 Aug 1945VF-75B1 August 1945CVBG-75 established 1 Jun 1945 assigned to a "new" large Midway class carrier and was initially assigned two VF squadrons, VF-75A and VF-75B
VF-75 Gay Blades F4U VF-75A: 1 Jun 1945-1 Aug 1945
VF-75: 1 Aug 1945 – 15 Nov 1946
VF-3B(3rd): 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948
VF-41(3rd): 1 Sep 1948-Jun 1950
VF-41 (3rd)June 1950The air group's second VF squadron (VF-75B) was disestablished and remaining squadron (VF-75A) was redesignated VF-75 as the single VF squadron of CVBG-75. CVBG-75 redesignated CVBG-3 14 Nov 1946
VF-80 Vipers F6F-5 VF-80: 1 Feb 1944 – 16 Sep 1946VF-8016 September 1946CVG-80 established 1 Feb 1944, disestablished 16 Sep 1946
VF-81
(first use)
Fighter Squadron 21 (US Navy) patch.png Freelancers F6F VF-81(1st): 2 Mar 1944 – 15 Nov 1946
VF-13A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948
VF-131(1st): 2 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950
VF-64: 15 Feb 1950-1 Jul 1959
VF-21(3rd): 1 Jul 1959 – 31 Jan 1996
VF-21 (3rd)31 January 1996CVG-81 established 1 Mar 1944, redesignated CVAG-13 15 Nov 1946
VF-82
(first use)
VF-82 WWII fighting fools.jpeg Fighting Fools F8F VF-82(1st): 1 Apr 1944 – 15 Nov 1946
VF-17A: 15 Nov 1946-11 Aug 1948
VF-171(1st): 11 Aug 1948 – 15 Mar 1958
VF-171 (1st)15 April 1958CVG-82 established 1 Apr 1944, redesignated CVAG-17 15 Nov 1946
VF-83
(first use)
F6F-5 VF-83(1st): 1 May 1944 – 24 Sep 1945VF-83 (1st)24 September 1945CVG-83 1 May 1944, disestablished 24 Sep 1945
VF-84
(first use)
Wolf Gang F4U
F6F
VF-84(1st): 1 May 1944 – 8 Oct 1945VF-84 (1st)8 October 1945CVG-84 established 1 May 1944, disestablished 8 Oct 1945
VF-85 F4U
F6F
VF-85: 1 May 1944 – 27 Sep 1945VF-8527 September 1945CVG-85 established 15 May 1944, disestablished 27 Sep 1945
VF-86 F6F VF-86: 15 Jun 1944 – 21 Nov 1945VF-8621 November 1945CVG-86 established 15 Jun 1944, disestablished 21 Not 1945
VF-87 VF-87 WWII.jpg F6F VF-87: 1 Jul 1944 – 2 Nov 1945VF-872 November 1945CVG-87 established 1 Jul 1944, disestablished 2 Nov 1945
VF-88 F6F VF-88: 15 Aug 1944 – 29 Oct 1945VF-8829 October 1945CVG-88 established 18 Aug 1944, disestablished 29 Oct 1945
VF-89 F4U VF-89: 2 Oct 1944 – 27 Apr 1946VF-8927 April 1946CVG-89 established 2 Oct 1944, disestablished 27 Apr 1946
VF-92
(1944-5)

(first use)
VF-92 WWII hells kittens.jpeg Hells Kittens F6F VF-92(1st): 1 Dec 1944 – 18 Dec 1945VF-92 (1st)18 December 1945CVG-92 established 2 Dec 1944, disestablished 18 Dec 1945
VF-93
(1944-6)

(first use)
VF-93 WWII squadron.jpeg Polecats F6F VF-93(1st): 15 Dec 1944 – 30 Apr 1946VF-93 (1st)30 April 1946CVG-93 established 21 Dec 1944, disestablished 30 Apr 1946
VF-94
(1944-5)

(first use)
VF-94 tough kitties 1952 1st insignia.jpeg Tough Kitties F6F VF-94(1st): 15 Nov 1944 – 7 Nov 1945VF-94 (1st)7 November 1945CVG-94 established 15 Nov 1944, disestablished 7 Nov 1945
VF-95 F4U VF-95: 2 Jan 1945 – 31 Oct 1945VF-9531 October 1945CVG-95 established 2 Jan 1945, disestablished 31 Oxt 1945
VF-97 VF-97: 1 Nov 1944 – 31 Mar 1946VF-9731 March 1946CVG-97 established 1 Nov 1944, disestablished 31 Mar 1946
VF-98 F4U VF-98: 28 Aug 1944 – 15 Nov 1946
VF-21A: 15 Nov 1946 – 5 Aug 1947
VF-21A5 August 1947CVG-98 established 28 Aug 1944, redesignated CVAG-21 15 Nov 1946
VF-99 F4U VF-99: 15 Jul 1944 – 6 Sep 1945VF-996 September 1945CVG-99 established 15 Jul 1944, disestablished 8 Sep 1945
VF-100 F4U VF-100: 1 Apr 1944 – 20 Feb 1946VF-10020 February 1946CVG-100 established 1 Apr 1944, disestablished 20 Feb 1946
VF-150 F4U VF-150: 22 Jan 1945 – 2 Nov 1945VF-1502 November 1945CVG-150 established 22 Jan 1945, disestablished 2 Nov 1946
VF-151
(1945)

(first use)
F4U VF-151(1st): 12 Feb 1945 – 6 Oct 1945VF-151 (1st)6 October 1945CVG-151 established 12 Feb 1945, disestablished 6 Oct 1945
VF-152
(first use)
F4U VF-152(1st) 5 Mar 1945 – 21 Sep 1945VF-152 (1st)21 September 1945CVG-152 established 5 Mar 1945, disestablished 21 Sep 1945
VF-153
(first use)
VF-153 WWII.jpeg Fightin' Kangaroos F6F VF-153(1st): 26 Mar 1945 – 15 Nov 1946
VF-15A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948
VF-151(2nd): 15 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1950
VF-192(2nd): 15 Feb 1950-15 Mar 1956
VA-192: 15 Mar 1956-10 Jan 1986
VFA-192: 10 Jan 1986–present
VFA-192Not applicable, still existsCVG-153 established 26 Mar 1945, redesignated CVAG-15 15 Nov 1946
VF-301
(1944)

(first use)
VF-301(1st): 3 Jan 1944 – 1 Aug 1944VF-301 (1st)1 August 1944
VF-302
(1944)

(first use)
VF-302(1st): 15 Jan 1944 – 1 Aug 1944VF-302 (1st)1 August 1944
VF-303 VF-303: 1 Mar 1944 – 4 May 1944VF-3034 May 1944
A new Squadron and Air Group designation scheme was established in 1946. Squadron designation suffix letters denoted to which type of Carrier Air Group (CVAG, CVBG, CVLG or CVEG) the squadron was assigned: A-CVAG aboard Essex class (attack) carriers, B-CVBG aboard Midway class (battle) carriers, L-CVLG aboard Independence or Saipan class (light) carriers or E-CVEG aboard remaining WWII escort carriers. CVAGs and CVBGs were designated with odd numbers and each was assigned two VF squadrons with the first carrying the Air Group's number and the second the next consecutive even number (CVAG-1: VF-1A, VF-2A; CVBG-1: VF-1B, VF-2B; CVAG-7: VF-7A, VF-8A; CVAG-11; VF-11A, VF-12A etc...)
VF-1A Strike Fighter Squadron 11 (US Navy) insignia, 2015.png Red Rippers F8F VF-5(1st): 1 Feb 1927-1 Jul 1927
VF-5S(1st): 1 Jul 1927-Jan 1928
VF-5B(1st): Jan 1928-1 Jul 1928
VB-1B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930
VF-5B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-Jul 1932
VF-5S(2nd): Jul 1932-Apr 1933
VF-5B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937
VF-4(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941
VF-41(1st): 15 Mar 1941-4 Aug 1943
VF-4(4th): 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946
VF-1A: 15 Nov 1946 – 2 Aug 1948
VF-11(2nd): 2 Aug 1948 – 15 Feb 1959
VF-11 (2nd)15 February 1959Original "Red Rippers" squadron.
1st VF squadron of CVAG-1
VF-1B
(1946-8)

(third use)
F4U
F8F
VF-74A: 1 May 1945-1 Aug 1945
VF-74(2nd): 1 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-1B(3rd): 15 Nov 1946 – 1 Sep 1948
VF-21(2nd): 1 Sep 1948-1 Jul 1959
VA-43: 1 Jul 1959-1 Jun 1973
VF-43(5th): 1 Jun 1973 – 1 Jul 1994
VF-43 (5th)1 July 19941st VF squadron of CVBG-1
VF-1E Firebirds FR-1
F6F
VF-41(2nd): 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-1E: 15 Nov 1946 – 1 Sep 1948
VF-1(4th): 1 Sep 1948 – 20 Nov 1948
VF-1 (4th)20 November 1948Only VF squadron of CVEG-1
VF-1L F6F
F8F
VF-58: 15 Mar 1946-15 Nov 1946
VF-1L: 15 Nov 1946 – 20 Nov 1948
VF-1L20 November 1948Only VF squadron of CVLG-1.
Assets merged with VA-1L in Nov 1948 to form second squadron designated VX-3
VF-2A Insignia of u s navy VBF-4 and VF-2A ubangies.jpeg Ubangis F6F
F4U
F8F
VBF-4: 12 May 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-2A: 15 Nov 1946 – 2 Aug 1948
VF-12(2nd): 2 Aug 1948-1 Aug 1955
VA-12: 1 Aug 1955 – 1 Oct 1986
VA-121 October 19862nd VF squadron of CVAG-1
VF-2B
(1946-8)

(fourth use)
F4U VBF-74A: 1 May 1945-1 Aug 1945
VBF-74: 1 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-2B(4th): 15 Nov 1946 – 1 Sep 1948
VF-22(2nd): 1 Sep 1948 – 6 Jun 1958
VF-22 (2nd)6 June 19582nd VF squadron of CVBG-1
VF-2E F6F
F8F
VF-42(2nd) 19 Jul 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-2E: 15 Nov 1946 – 15 Sep 1948
VF-81(2nd): 15 Sep 1948 – 17 Jan 1950
VF-81 (2nd)17 January 1950Only VF squadron of CVEG-2
VF-3A Vf2b vf3 vf6b 1928 insig.jpg Shooting Stars F6F VF-1B(2nd):1 Jul 1935-1 Jul 1937
VF-6(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943
VF-3(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946
VF-3A: 15 Nov 1946 – 7 Aug 1948
VF-31(2nd): 7 Aug 1948-2006
VFA-31: 2006–present
VFA-31Not applicable, still exists1st VF squadron of CVAG-3.
On 15 Jul 1943 VF-3(2nd) and VF-6(2nd) swapped designations with VF-3(2nd) becoming VF-6(3rd) and VF-6(2nd) becoming VF-3(3rd). The new VF-3(3rd) laid claim to VF-3(2nd)'s Felix the Cat insignia and both squadrons used it until the original owner (then VF-6(3rd)) was disestablished leaving it with VF-3(3rd) which was later redesignated VF-3A, VF-31(2nd) and is today VFA-31. The "Tomcatters" nickname was instituted with redesignation to VF-31
VF-3B
(1946-8)

(third use)
Gay Blades F4U VF-75A: 1 Jun 1945-1 Aug 1945
VF-75: 1 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-3B(3rd): 15 Nov 1946 – 1 Sep 1948
VF-41(3rd): 1 Sep 1948-Jun 1950
VF-41 (3rd)June 19501st VF squadron of CVBG-3
VF-3E F8F VF-3E: 21 Apr 1947 – 15 Sep 1948
VF-82(2nd): 15 Sep 1948 – 29 Nov 1949
VF-82 (2nd)29 November 1949Only VF squadron of CVEG-3
VF-4A Vf32 c insig.jpg White Lightning F8F VBF-3: 1 Feb 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-4A: 15 Nov 1946 – 7 Aug 1948
VF-32(2nd): 7 Aug 1948-Nov 2005
VFA-32: Nov 2005–present
VFA-3215 February 19592nd VF squadron of CVAG-3.
Because VBF-3 was established by being split out VF-3(3rd) the squadron originally called themselves the "Crazy Cats" and used the Felix the Cat insignia which made them the third squadron along with VF-3(3rd) and VF-6(3rd) to use the Felix the Cat insignia at the same time. As VF-4A the squadron abandoned the Felix the Cat insignia, called themselves "White Lightining" and created a new insignia.
VF-4B Insignia of u s navy squadron VBF-75, VF-4B, VF-42.jpeg Green Pawns F4U VBF-75A: 1 Jun 1945-1 Aug 1945
VBF-75: 1 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-4B: 15 Nov 1946 – 1 Sep 1948
VF-42(3rd): 1 Sep 1948 – 8 Jun 1950
VF-42 (3rd)8 June 19502nd VF squadron of CVBG-3.
The "Green Pawns" insignia was first approved for use by VBF-75 and was carried through the redesignations to VF-4B and VF-42(3rd)
VF-5A VF-5 second & third.jpg Screaming Eagles F8F
FJ-1
VF-1(2nd): 15 Feb 1943-15 Jul 1943
VF-5(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946
VF-5A: 15 Nov 1946 – 16 Aug 1948
VF-51(2nd): 16 Aug 1948 – 31 Mar 1995
VF-51 (2nd)31 March 19951st VF squadron of CVAG-5
VF-5B
(1946-8)

(fourth use)
VF-17 WWII jolly rogers.jpeg Jolly Rogers F4U-4
F8F-2
VF-17: 1 Jan 1943-15 Nov 1946
VF-5B(4th): 15 Nov 1946 – 28 Jul 1948
VF-61: 28 Jul 1948 – 15 Apr 1959
VF-6115 April 19591st VF squadron of CVBG-5.
Original "Jolly Rogers" squadron. Name created by VF-17 and carried through VF-5B(4th) and VF-61 redesignations
VF-6A Knightriders F4U-4 VBF-5: 8 May 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-6A: 15 Nov 1946 – 16 Aug 1948
VF-52(3rd): 16 Aug 1948 – 23 Feb 1959
VF-52 (3rd)23 February 19592nd VF squadron of CVAG-5
VF-6B
(1946-8)

(third use)
Insignia of u s navy VBF-17, VF-6B, VF-62.jpg F4U
F8F
VBF-17: 2 Jan 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-6B(3rd): 15 Nov 1946 – 28 Jul 1948
VF-62(1st): 28 Jul 1948-1 Jul 1955
VA-106(2nd): 1 Jul 1955 – 7 Nov 1969
VA-106 (2nd)7 November 19692nd VF squadron of CVBG-5
VF-7A F8F VGS-18: 15 Oct 1942-1 Mar 1943
VC-18: 1 Mar 1943-15 Aug 1943
VF-36(1st): 15 Aug 1943-5 Mar 1944
VF-18(2nd): 5 Mar 1944-15 Nov 1946
VF-7A: 15 Nov 1946 – 28 Jul 1948
VF-71(2nd): 28 Jul 1948 – 31 Mar 1959
VF-71 (2nd)31 March 19591st VF squadron of CVAG-7
VF-8A VF-8A bearcats.jpg Bearcats F8F VBF-18: 25 Jan 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-8A: 15 Nov 1946 – 28 Jul 1948
VF-72(2nd): 28 Jul 1948-3 Jan 1956
VA-72: 3 Jan 1956 – 30 Jun 1991
VA-7230 June 19912nd VF squadron of CVAG-7
VF-9A Insignia of u s navy VA-9A.jpeg Jokers F6F
F8F
VF-20: 15 Oct 1943-15 Nov 1946
VF-9A: 15 Nov 1946 – 12 Aug 1948
VF-91(1st): 12 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950
VF-34(3rd): 15 Feb 1950-1 Jul 1955
VA-34(2nd): 1 Jul 1955 – 1 Jun 1969
VA-34 (2nd)1 June 19691st VF squadron of CVAG-9
VF-10A Fighter Squadron 74 (US Navy) insignia c1969.png
Adopted in 1948
Be-Devilers (Adopted in 1948) F8F VBF-20: 16 Apr 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-10A: 15 Nov 1946 – 12 Aug 1948
VF-92(2nd): 12 Aug 1948-15 Jan 1950
VF-74(3rd): 15 Jan 1950 – 30 Apr 1994
VF-74 (3rd)30 Apr 19942nd VF squadron of CVAG-9
VF-11A VF-111 VFC-111 Emblems.svg Sundowners F8F VF-11(1st): 10 Oct 1942-15 Nov 1946
VF-11A: 15 Nov 1946 – 15 Jul 1948
VF-111(1st)15 Jul 1948 – 19 Jan 1959
VF-111 (1st)19 January 19591st VF squadron of CVAG-11.
First "Sundowners" squadron, name and insignia created by VF-11(1st) and carried through VF-11A and VF-111(1st) redesignations
VF-12A Insignia of u s navy VBF-11, VA-12A.jpg F6F
F8F
VBF-11: 9 Apr 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-12A: 15 Nov 1946 – 15 July 1948
VF-112: 15 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1959
VA-112: 15 Feb 1959 – 10 Oct 1969
VA-11210 October 19692nd VF squadron of CVAG-11
VF-13A Fighter Squadron 21 (US Navy) patch.png Freelancers F4U VF-81(1st): 2 Mar 1944-15 Nov 1946
VF-13A: 15 Nov 1946 – 2 Aug 1948
VF-131(1st): 2 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950
VF-64: 15 Feb 1950-1 Jul 1959
VF-21(3rd): 1 Jul 1959 – 31 Jan 1996
VF-21 (3rd)31 January 19961st VF squadron of CVAG-13
VF-14A F4U
F8F
VBF-81: 13 May 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-14A: 15 Nov 1946 – 2 Aug 1948
VF-132(1st): 2 Aug 1948 – 30 Nov 1949
VF-132 (1st)30 November 19492nd VF squadron of CVAG-13
VF-15A Insignia of u s navy squadron VF-15A.jpg Black Knights F6F
F8F
VF-153(1st): 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-15A: 15 Nov 1946 – 15 Jul 1948
VF-151(2nd): 15 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1950
VF-192(2nd): 15 Feb 1950-15 Mar 1956
VA-192: 15 Mar 1956-10 Jan 1986
VFA-192: 10 Jan 1986–present
VFA-192Not applicable, still exists1st VF squadron of CVAG-15
VF-16A Insignia of u s navy VBF0153 & VF-16A.jpg
Insignia of u s navy squadron VF-16A VF-152(2nd) VF-54(1st).jpg
(1948)
Copperheads F6F
F8F
VBF-153: 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-16A: 15 Nov 1946 – 15 Jul 1948
VF-152(2nd): 15 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1950
VF-54(1st): 15 Feb 1950-15 Jun 1956
VA-54(2nd): 15 Jun 1956 – 1 Apr 1958
VA-54 (2nd)1 April 19582nd VF squadron of CVAG-15
VF-17A VF-17A phantom fighters.jpeg Phantom Fighters F8F
FH
VF-82(1st): 1 Apr 1944-15 Nov 1956
VF-17A: 15 Nov 1946 – 11 Aug 1948
VF-171(1st): 11 Aug 1948 – 15 Mar 1958
VF-171 (1st)15 March 19581st VF squadron of CVAG-17
VF-18A Insignia of u s navy VBF-82, VF-18A, VF-172.png Checkmates F4U
F8F
VBF-82: 20 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-18A: 15 Nov 1946 – 11 Aug 1948
VF-172: 11 Aug 1948-1 Nov 1955
VA-172: 1 Nov 1955 – 15 Jan 1971
VA-17215 January 19712nd VF squadron of CVAG-17
VF-19A VF-19 WWII.jpg Satan's Kittens F6F
F8F
VF-19: 15 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946
VF-19A: 15 Nov 1946 – 24 Aug 1948
VF-191(1st): 24 Aug 1948 – 1 Mar 1978
VF-191 (1st)1 March 19781st VF squadron of CVAG-19
VF-20A Insignia of u s navy VBF-19, VF-20A.jpg F6F
F4U
VBF-19: 20 Jan 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-20A: 15 Nov 1946 – 24 Aug 1948
VF-192(1st): 24 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950
VF-114: 15 Feb 1950 – 30 Apr 1993
VF-11430 April 19932nd VF squadron of CVAG-19
VF-21A F4U VF-98: 28 Aug 1944-15 Nov 1946
VF-21A: 15 Nov 1946 – 5 Aug 1947
VF-21A5 August 19471st VF squadron of CVAG-21
VF-22A F4U VBF-98: 1 Feb 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-22A: 15 Nov 1946 – 5 Aug 1947
VF-22A5 August 19472nd VF squadron of CVAG-21
A new Squadron and Air Group designation scheme was established in 1948. Squadron suffix letters were dropped and CVAGs and CVBGs were all redesignated CVGs. New squadron designation numbers denoted to which CVG the squadron was assigned with the first one or two digits denoting the CVG followed by a 1, 2 or 3 to differentiate between the VF squadrons (CVG-1: VF-11, VF-12, VF-13; CVG-2: VF-21, VF-22, VF-23; CVG-11: VF-111, VF-112, VF-113; CVG-15: VF-151, VF-152, VF-153 etc...). A fourth VF squadron (VF-__4) was added to most CVGs beginning in 1949. When a squadron was moved from one CVG to another it was redesignated to conform with the designation of the newly assigned CVG. That practice had begun to be abandoned by the mid-1950s when squadrons which were transferred from one CVG to another were redesignated in some cases but not in others. By 1965 the practice of redesignataing squadrons in accordance with Carrier Air Wing (CVGs were retitled Carrier Air Wings (CVW) on 20 December 1963) assignment had ceased completely and squadron designations were "frozen" and divorced from Carrier Air Wing designations. Squadrons and CVGs are grouped by designation below for ease of reading the table but it should not be assumed that the listed squadrons were assigned only to the CVG in which section they appear in the table.
VF-1
(1945-8)

(fourth use)
Firebirds F6F VF-41(2nd): 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-1E: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948
VF-1(4th): 1 Sep 1948 – 20 Nov 1948
VF-1 (4th)20 November 1948When CVEG-1 was disestablished on 1 Sep 1948 its VF squadron was redesignated VF-1(4th) until it was disestablished less than three months later
CVG-1 (2nd): CVAG-1 redesignated CVG-1 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, currently exists as CVW-1
VF-11
(1948-59)

(second use)
Strike Fighter Squadron 11 (US Navy) insignia, 2015.png Red Rippers F8F
F2H
VF-5(1st): 1 Feb 1927-1 Jul 1927
VF-5S(1st): 1 Jul 1927-Jan 1928
VF-5B(1st): Jan 1928-1 Jul 1928
VB-1B: 1 Jul 1928-1 Jul 1930
VF-5B(2nd): 1 Jul 1930-Jul 1932
VF-5S(2nd): Jul 1932-Apr 1933
VF-5B(3rd): Apr 1933-1 Jul 1937
VF-4(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Mar 1941
VF-41(1st): 15 Mar 1941-4 Aug 1943
VF-4(4th): 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946
VF-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948
VF-11(2nd): 2 Aug 1948 – 15 Feb 1959
VF-11 (2nd)15 February 1959Original "Red Rippers" squadron.
Redesignated as one of CVG-1(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-11
(1959-2005)

(third use)
Strike Fighter Squadron 11 (US Navy) insignia, 2015.png
(Adopted from disestablished VF-11(2nd))
Red Rippers
(adopted from disestablished VF-11(2nd))
F8U/F-8
F-4
F-14
VF-43(4th): 1 Sep 1950-16 Feb 1959
VF-11(3rd): 16 Feb 1959 – 5 Nov 2005
VFA-11: 5 Nov 2005–present
VFA-11Not applicable, still existsWas redesignated VF-11(3rd) the day after VF-11(2nd) was disestablished to replace VF-11(2nd) in CVG-1(2nd). Adopted the "Red Rippers" nickname and insignia becoming the second and current "Red Rippers" squadron
VF-12
(1948-55)

(second use)
Insignia of u s navy VBF-4 and VF-2A ubangies.jpeg Ubangis F8F
F2H
VBF-4: 12 May 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-2A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948
VF-12(2nd): 2 Aug 1948 – 1 Aug 1955
VA-12: 1 Aug 1955 – 1 Oct 1986
VA-121 October 1986Redesignated as one of CVG-1(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-13
(1948-69)

(second use)
Fighter Squadron 13 (US Navy) insignia.png Night Cappers F4U
F8F
F9F
F4D
F3H/F-3
F-8
VF-13(2nd): 2 Aug 1948 – 1 Oct 1969VF-13 (2nd)1 October 1969Established as one of CVG-1(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-14
(1949-2001)

(second use)
VF-14 Top Hatters.jpeg Top Hatters F4U
F3D
F3H/F-3
F-4
F-14
Air Det Pac Flt: Sep 1919-15 Jun 1920
VT-5(1st): 15 Jun 1920-7 Sep 1921
VP-1-4: 7 Dec 1921-23 Sep 1921
VF-4(1st): 23 Sep 1921-1 Jul 1922
VF-1(1st): 1 Jul 1922-1 Jul 1927
VF-1B(1st): 1 Jul 1927-1 Jul 1934
VB-2B: 1 Jul 1934-1 Jul 1937
VB-3: 1 Jul 1937-1 Jul 1939
VB-4: 1 Jul 1939-15 Mar 1941
VS-41(2nd): 15 Mar 1941-1 Mar 1943
VB-41: 1 Mar 1943-4 Aug 1943
VB-4: 4 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946
VA-1A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948
VA-14: 2 Aug 1948-15 Dec 1949
VF-14(2nd): 15 Dec 1949 – 1 Dec 2001
VFA-14: 1 Dec 2001–present
VFA-14Not applicable, still existsOldest continuously active aircraft squadron in the U.S. Navy.
Redesignated from being a CVG-1 (2nd) VA squadron to being its 4th VF squadron
CVG-2 (2nd): CVBG-1 redesignated CVG-2 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, currently exists as CVW-2
VF-21
(1948-59)

(second use)
Attack Squadron 43 Insignia (US Navy).jpg Mach Busters F8F
F9F
FJ
F11F
VF-74A: 1 May 1945-1 Aug 1945
VF-74(2nd): 1 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-1B(3rd): 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948
VF-21(2nd): 1 Sep 1948 – 1 Jul 1959
VA-43: 1 Jul 1959-1 Jun 1973
VF-43(5th): 1 Jun 1973 – 1 Jul 1994
VF-43 (5th)1 July 1994Redesignated as one of CVG-2(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-21
(1959-96)

(third use)
Fighter Squadron 21 (US Navy) patch.png Freelancers F3H/F-3
F-4
F-14
VF-81(1st): 2 Mar 1944-15 Nov 1946
VF-13A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948
VF-131(1st): 2 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950
VF-64: 15 Feb 1950-1 Jul 1959
VF-21(3rd): 1 Jul 1959 – 31 Jan 1996
VF-21 (3rd)31 January 1996Replaced VF-21(2nd) in CVG-2(2nd) when VF-21(2nd) was redesignated a VA squadron
VF-22
(1948-58)

(second use)
F2H-2 VBF-74A: 1 May 1945-1 Aug 1945
VBF-74: 1 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-2B(4th): 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948
VF-22(2nd): 1 Sep 1948 – 6 Jun 1958
VF-22 (2nd)6 June 1958Redesignated as one of CVG-2(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-23
(1948-59)

(second use)
Vf-23 insignia.jpg
(1949)
VFA-151 Emblem.svg
(1955)
Flashers (1949),
Vigilantes (1959)
F6F
F4U
F9F
F2H
F4D
F3H
VF-23(2nd): 6 Aug 1948 – 23 Feb 1959
VF-151(4th): 23 Feb 1959-1 Jun 1986
VFA-151: 1 Jun 1986–present
VFA-151Not applicable, still existsEstablished as one of CVG-2(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-24
(1949-59)

(second use)
Fighter Squadron 24 (US Navy) insignia c1977.png Red Checkertails F4U
F9F
FJ-1
FJ-3
F3H
F11F
F8U
VB-74: 1 May 1945-15 Nov 1946
VA-1B: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948
VA-24: 1 Sep 1948-1 Dec 1949
VF-24(2nd): 1 Dec 1949 – 9 Mar 1959
VF-211(3rd): 9 Mar 1959-Aug 2006
VFA-211: Aug 2006–present
VFA-211Not applicable, still existsRedesignated from being a CVG-2 (2nd) VA squadron to being its 4th VF squadron.
On 9 March 1959, VF-24(2nd) traded insignia, nicknames and designations with VF-211(2nd) becoming VF-211(3rd) while VF-211(2nd) became VF-24(3rd).
VF-24
1959-96)

(third use)
Fighter Squadron 24 (US Navy) insignia c1977.png Red Checkertails,
Fighting Renegades (1979)
F8U/F-8
F-14
VF-211(2nd): Jun 1955-9 Mar 1959
VF-24(3rd): 9 Mar 1959 – 31 Aug 1996
VF-24 (3rd)31 August 1996On 9 March 1959, VF-211(2nd) traded insignia, nicknames and designations with VF-24(2nd) becoming VF-24(3rd) in CVG-2(2nd) while VF-24(2nd) became VF-211(3rd).
VF-26
(second use)
VF-111 VFC-111 Emblems.svg Sundowners F-8 VA-156: 4 Jun 1956-20 Jan 1959
VF-111(2nd): 20 Jan 1959-1 Sep 1964
VF-26(2nd): 1 Sep 1964 – 17 Sep 1964
VF-111(3rd): 17 Sep 1964 – 31 Mar 1995
VF-111 (3rd)31 March 1995For 16 days in September 1964 VF-111(2nd) was redesignated VF-26(2nd) before being redesignated back to VF-111(3rd). It was transferred to CVG-2(2nd) from CVG-11(2nd) and remained in CVG-2(2nd) after its redesignation back to VF-111(3rd)
CVG-3 (2nd): CVAG-3 redesignated CVG-3 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, currently exists as CVW-3
VF-31
(1948-2006)

(second use)
Felix VF-31 logo.svg Tomcatters F9F
F2H
F3H/F-3
F-4
F-14
VF-1B(2nd):1 Jul 1935-1 Jul 1937
VF-6(2nd): 1 Jul 1937-15 Jul 1943
VF-3(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946
VF-3A: 15 Nov 1946-7 Aug 1948
VF-31(2nd): 7 Aug 1948-2006
VFA-31: 2006–present
VFA-31Not applicable, still existsRedesignated as one of CVG-3(2nd)'s initial squadrons.
On 15 Jul 1943 VF-3(2nd) and VF-6(2nd) swapped designations with VF-3(2nd) becoming VF-6(3rd) and VF-6(2nd) becoming VF-3(3rd). The new VF-3(3rd) laid claim to VF-3(2nd)'s Felix the Cat insignia and both squadrons used it until the original owner (then VF-6(3rd)) was disestablished leaving it with VF-3(3rd) which was later redesignated VF-3A, VF-31(2nd) and is today VFA-31. The "Tomcatters" nickname was instituted with redesignation to VF-31
VF-32
(1948-2005)

(second use)
Vf32 c insig.jpg
(White Lighting)
Fighter Squadron 32 (US Navy) insignia c1998.png
(Swordsmen)
White Lightning,
Swordsman (1956)
F4U
F9F-6
F8U/F-8
F-4
F-14
VBF-3: 1 Feb 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-4A: 15 Nov 1946-7 Aug 1948
VF-32(2nd): 7 Aug 1948-Nov 2005
VFA-32: Nov 2005–present
VFA-32Not applicable, still existsRedesignated as one of CVG-3(2nd)'s initial squadrons.
Because VBF-3 was established by being split out VF-3(3rd) the squadron originally called themselves the "Crazy Cats" and used the Felix the Cat insignia which made them the third squadron along with VF-3(3rd) and VF-6(3rd) to use the Felix the Cat insignia at the same time. As VF-4A the squadron abandoned the Felix the Cat insignia, called themselves "White Lightining" and created a new insignia.
VF-33
(1948-93)

(second use)
Minky.jpg
(Tarsiers)
Fighter Squadron 33 (US Navy) insignia 1992.png
(Starfighters)
Tarsiers (1948),
Astronauts (1958),
Tarsiers (1961),
Starfighters (1981)
F4U
F9F-6
FJ-3
F11F
F8U/F-8
F-4
F-14
VF-33(2nd): 12 Oct 1948 – 1 Oct 1993VF-33 (2nd)1 October 1993Established as one of CVG-3(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-34
(1943-69)

(third use)
Attack Squadron 34 (US Navy) insignia c1966.png Jokers F8F
F9F
F2H
VF-20: 15 Oct 1943-15 Nov 1946
VF-9A: 15 Nov 1946-12 Aug 1948
VF-91(1st): 12 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950
VF-34(3rd): 15 Feb 1950 – 1 Jul 1955
VA-34(2nd): 1 Jul 1955 – 1 Jun 1969
VA-34 (2nd)1 June 1969Redesignated VF-34(3rd) and added to CVG-3(2nd) as its 4th VF sqdn after CVG-9(2nd) was disestablished
CVG-4 (2nd): CVBG-1 redesignated CVG-4 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 8 Jun 1950
VF-41
(1948-50)

(third use)
Gay Blades F4U VF-75A: 1 Jun 1945-1 Aug 1945
VF-75: 1 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-3B(3rd): 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948
VF-41(3rd): 1 Sep 1948-Jun 1950
VF-41 (3rd)June 1950Redesignated as one of CVG-4(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-42
(1945-50)

(third use)
Insignia of u s navy squadron VBF-75, VF-4B, VF-42.jpeg Green Pawns F4U VBF-75A: 1 Jun 1945-1 Aug 1945
VBF-75: 1 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-4B: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948
VF-42(3rd): 1 Sep 1948 – 8 Jun 1950
VF-42 (3rd)8 June 1950Redesignated as one of CVG-4(2nd)'s initial squadrons.
The "Green Pawns" insignia was first approved for use by VBF-75 and was carried through the redesignations to VF-4B and VF-42(3rd)
VF-43
(1948-50)

(third use)
Blue Pawns [10] F4U [10] VF-43(3rd): 1 Oct 1948-1950VF-43 (3rd)1950Established as one of CVG-4(2nd)'s initial squadrons
CVG-4 (3rd): Established 1 Sep 1950, redesignated RCVG-4 1 Apr 1958 to control FRSs, disestablished 1 Jun 1970 as RCVW-4
VF-41
(1950-2001)

(fourth use)
VF-41.jpg Black Aces F2H
F3H
F4H/F-4
F-14
VF-41(4th): on 1 Sep 1950-Dec 2001
VFA-41: Dec 2001–present
VFA-141Not applicable, still existsEstablished as one of CVG-4(3rd)'s initial squadrons
VF-42
(1950-3)

(fourth use)
Insignia of u s navy squadron VBF-75, VF-4B, VF-42.jpeg (adopted from disestablished VF-42(3rd))Green Pawns F4U
AD
VF-42(4th): 1 Sep 1950 – 1 Nov 1953
VA-42: 1 Nov 1953 – 30 Sep 1994
VA-4230 September 1994Established as one of CVG-4(3rd)'s initial squadrons.
Adopted the nickname and insignia of the disestablished VF-42(3rd)
VF-43
(1950-9)

(fourth use)
Rebel's Raiders F4U
F9F Cougar
F2H
VF-43(4th): 1 Sep 1950 – 16 Feb 1959
VF-11(3rd): 16 Feb 1959-5 Nov 2005
VFA-11: 5 Nov 2005–present
VFA-11Not applicable, still existsEstablished as one of CVG-4(3rd)'s initial squadrons.
Was redesignated VF-11(3rd) the day after VF-11(2nd) was disestablished. Adopted the "Red Ripper" nickname and insignia on 16 Feb 1959 as VF-11(3rd)
VF-44
(1950-6)

(second use)
F4U
F2H
VF-44(2nd): 1 Sep 1950 – 1 Jan 1956
VA-44(2nd): 1 Jan 1956 – 1 May 1970
VA-44 (2nd)1 May 1970Established as one of CVG-4(3rd)'s initial squadrons
CVG-5 (2nd): CVAG-5 redesignated CVG-5 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, currently exists as CVW-5
VF-51
(1948-95)

(second use)
Fighter Squadron 51 (US Navy) patch c1990.png Screaming Eagles FJ
F9F Panther
F9F Cougar
F8U/F-8
F-4
F-14
VF-1(2nd): 15 Feb 1943-15 Jul 1943
VF-5(3rd): 15 Jul 1943-15 Nov 1946
VF-5A: 15 Nov 1946-16 Aug 1948
VF-51(2nd): 16 Aug 1948 – 31 Mar 1995
VF-51 (2nd)31 March 1995Redesignated as one of CVG-5(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-52
(1948-69)

(third use)
Knightriders TO-1
F9F-2
F2H-3
VBF-5: 8 May 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-6A: 15 Nov 1946-16 Aug 1948
VF-52(3rd): 16 Aug 1948 – 23 Feb 1959
VF-52 (3rd)23 February 1959Redesignated as one of CVG-5(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-53
(1948-58)

(second use)
Gunfighters F4U
F9F
VF-53(2nd): 16 Aug 1948 – 11 Apr 1958
VF-124(2nd): 11 Apr 1958 – 30 Sep 1994
VF-124 (2nd)30 September 1994Established as one of CVG-5(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-53
(1958-62)

(third use)
Insignia of u s navy VF-53(3rd) pukin dogs.jpg Pukin' Dogs F3H VF-871: 20 Jul 1950-4 Feb 1953
VF-123: 4 Feb 1953-12 Apr 1958
VF-53(3rd): 12 Apr 1958 – 20 Jun 1962
VF-143(2nd): 20 Jun 1962-2005
VFA-143: 2005–present
VFA-143Not applicable, still existsUSNR VF-871 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War. Reassigned to CVG-5(2nd) in 1958 when it and VF-53(2nd) swapped air groups
VF-53
(1963-71)

(fourth use)
Fighter Squadron 53 (US Navy) insignia c1968.png Iron Angels F-8 VF-721: 20 Jul 1950-4 Feb 1953
VF-141: 4 Feb 1953-15 Oct 1963
VF-53(4th): 15 Oct 1963 – 29 Jan 1971
VF-53 (4th)29 January 1971USNR VF-721 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War. Assigned in 1963 to CVG-5(2nd) as its second VF squadron to replace VF-54(2nd) when it was moved back to CVG-9
VF-54
(first use)
Insignia of u s navy squadron VF-16A VF-152(2nd) VF-54(1st).jpg
VF-54 Hells Angels.jpg
(1951)
Copperheads,
Hell's Angels
(1951)
F4U
AD
VBF-153: 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-16A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948
VF-152(2nd): 15 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1950
VF-54(1st): 15 Feb 1950 – 15 Jun 1956
VA-54(2nd): 15 Jun 1956 – 1 Apr 1958
VA-54 (2nd)1 April 1958Redesignated VF-54(1st) and added to CVG-5(2nd) as its 4th VF sqdn after CVG-15(2nd) was disestablished
VF-54
(1962-3)

(second use)
Fighter Squadron 92 (US Navy) insignia c1970.png Silver Kings F3H/F-3
F-4
VF-92(3rd): 23 Mar 1952-1 Jun 1962
VF-54(2nd): 1 Jun 1962 – 15 Oct 1963
VF-92(4th): 1 Oct 1963 – 12 Dec 1975
VF-92 (4th)12 December 1975Assigned in 1962 to CVG-5(2nd) as its second VF squadron to replace VF-53(3rd) when it was moved to CVG-14(2nd)
CVG-6 (2nd): CVBG-5 redesignated CVG-6 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 1 Apr 1992 as CVW-6
VF-61 VF-61 Jolly Rogers.jpeg Jolly Rogers F8F
F9F Panther
F9F Cougar
FJ-3
F3H
VF-17: 1 Jan 1943-15 Nov 1946
VF-5B(4th): 15 Nov 1946-28 Jul 1948
VF-61: 28 Jul 1948 – 15 Apr 1959
VF-6115 April 1959Redesignated as one of CVG-6(2nd)'s initial squadrons.
Original "Jolly Rogers" squadron. Name created by VF-17 and carried through VF-5B(4th) and VF-61 redesignations
VF-62
(first use)
Insignia of u s navy VBF-17, VF-6B, VF-62.jpg
Attack Squadron 105 (US Navy) insignia c1966.png
(1952)
Gladiators
(1952)
F8F
F2H
VBF-17: 2 Jan 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-6B(3rd): 15 Nov 1946-28 Jul 1948
VF-62(1st): 28 Jul 1948 – 1 Jul 1955
VA-106(2nd): 1 Jul 1955 – 7 Nov 1969
VA-106 (2nd)7 November 1969Redesignated as one of CVG-6(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-62
(1955-69)

(second use)
Fighter Squadron 62 (US Navy) insignia c1965.png Boomerangs FJ-3M
F8U/F-8
VA-106(1st): 1 Jul 1955-1 Jul 1955
VF-62(2nd): 1 Jul 1955 – 1 Oct 1969
VF-62 (2nd)1 October 1969Established as VA-106(1st) on 1 Jul 1955 and redesignated VF-62(2nd) on the same day to replace VF-62(1st) in CVG-6(2nd) when VF-62(1st) was redesignated a VA squadron
VF-63 Insignia of u s navy VF-63.jpg Fighting Redcocks F8F
F4U
F9F Panther
F9F Cougar
VF-63: 28 Jul 1948-Mar 1956
VA-63: Mar 1956-1 Jul 1959
VA-22: 1 Jul 1959-4 May 1990
VFA-22: 4 May 1990 – present
VFA-22Not applicable, still existsEstablished as one of CVG-6(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-64 Fighter Squadron 21 (US Navy) patch.png Freelancers F4U
F9F
F3H
VF-81(1st): 2 Mar 1944-15 Nov 1946
VF-13A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948
VF-131(1st): 2 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950
VF-64: 15 Feb 1950 – 1 Jul 1959
VF-21(3rd): 1 Jul 1959 – 31 Jan 1996
VF-21 (3rd)31 January 1996Redesignated VF-64 and added to CVG-6(2nd) as its 4th VF sqdn after CVG-13(2nd) was disestablished
CVG-7 (2nd): CVAG-7 redesignated CVG-7 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, still exists as CVW-7
VF-71
(1942-1959)

(second use)
VF-71 Screaming Deamons.jpg F9F-2
F2H-4
VGS-18: 15 Oct 1942-1 Mar 1943
VC-18: 1 Mar 1943-15 Aug 1943
VF-36(1st): 15 Aug 1943-5 Mar 1944
VF-18(2nd): 5 Mar 1944-15 Nov 1946
VF-7A: 15 Nov 1946-28 Jul 1948
VF-71(2nd): 28 Jul 1948 – 31 Mar 1959
VF-71 (2nd)31 March 1959Redesignate as one of CVG-7(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-72
(1948-56)

(second use)
Insignia of u s navy squadron VF-72(2nd) blue hawks.jpeg
(1950)
Bearcats,
Hawks
(1950)
F8F
F9F Panther
VBF-18: 25 Jan 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-8A: 15 Nov 1946-28 Jul 1948
VF-72(2nd): 28 Jul 1948 – 3 Jan 1956
VA-72: 3 Jan 1956 – 30 Jun 1991
VA-7230 June 1991Redesignated as one of CVG-7(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-73 Fighting Squadron 73 (US Navy) insignia c1953.png Jesters F6F
F8F
F4U
F9F-5
F9F-6
F2H
FJ-3
VF-73: 27 Jul 1948 – 1 Mar 1958VF-731 March 1958Established as one of CVG-7(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-74
(1950-94)

(third use)
Fighter Squadron 74 (US Navy) insignia c1969.png Be-Devilers F8F
F4U
F9F-8
F4D
F4H/F-4
F-14
VBF-20: 16 Apr 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-10A: 15 Nov 1946-12 Aug 1948
VF-92(2nd): 12 Aug 1948-15 Jan 1950
VF-74(3rd): 15 Jan 1950 – 30 Apr 1994
VF-74 (3rd)30 April 1994Redesignated VF-74(3rd) and added to CVG-7(2nd) as its 4th VF sqdn after CVG-9(2nd) was disestablished
CVG-8 (2nd): Planned for establishment in 1948 but cancelled
VF-81
(1948-50)

(second use)
F8F
F4U
VF-42(2nd) 19 Jul 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-2E: 15 Nov 1946-15 Sep 1948
VF-81(2nd): 15 Sep 1948 – 17 Jan 1950
VF-81 (2nd)17 January 1950Redesignated for assignment to CVG-8(2nd) but CVG-8 establishment was cancelled and squadron was disestablished
VF-82
(1948-9)

(second use)
F8F VF-3E: 21 Apr 1947-15 Sep 1948
VF-82(2nd): 15 Sep 1948 – 29 Nov 1949
VF-82 (2nd)29 November 1949Redesignated for assignment to CVG-8(2nd) but CVG-8 establishment was cancelled and squadron was disestablished
VF-83
(1948-50)

(second use)
VF-83(2nd): 15 Sep 1948-1949 or 50VF-83 (2nd)1949 or 50Established for assignment to CVG-8(2nd) but CVG-8 establishment was cancelled and squadron was disestablished
CVG-8 (2nd): Established 9 Apr 1951 to receive USNR squadrons activated for the Korean War, still exists as CVW-8
VF-81
(1953-5)

(third use)
Attack Squadron 66 (US Navy) insignia c1986.png Waldomen F9F-5
F7U
VF-671: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953
VF-81(3rd): 4 Feb 1953 – 1 Jul 1955
VA-66(2nd): 1 Jul 1955 – 1 Oct 1986
VA-66 (2nd)1 October 1986USNR VF-671 activated 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-8(2nd) when it was established on 9 Apr. Permanently activated and redesignated VF-81 in 1953
VF-81
(1955-9)

(fourth use)
VF-81 4th crusaders.png Crusaders F9F-8 VA-66(1st): 1 Jul 1955-1 Jul 1955
VF-81(4th): 1 Jul 1955 – 1 Jul 1959
VA-81: 1 Jul 1959-4 Feb 1988
VFA-81: 4 Feb 1988–present
VFA-81Not applicable, still existsEstablished as VA-66(1st) on 1 Jul 1955 and redesignated VF-81(4th) on the same day. Replaced VF-81(3rd) in CVG-8(2nd)
VF-82
(1953-9)

(third use)
VF-82 iron men.jpg Iron Men F2H
F3H
VF-742: 2 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953
VF-82(3rd): 4 Feb 1953 – 15 April 1959
VF-82 (3rd)15 April 1959USNR VF-742 activated on 2 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-8(2nd) when it was established on 9 Apr. Permanently activated and redesignated VF-82 in 1953
VF-83
(1953-6)

(third use)
VF-83 Roaring Bulls.jpeg Roaring Bulls F9F-5
F7U
VF-916: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953
VF-83(3rd): 4 Feb 1953 – 1 Jul 1955
VA-83: 1 Jul 1955-3 Mar 1988
VFA-83: 3 Mar 1988–present
VFA-83Not applicable, still existsUSNR VF-916 activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-8(2nd) when it was established on 9 Apr. Permanently activated and redesignated VF-83 in 1953
VF-84
(1953-5)

(second use)
Strike Fighter Squadron 86 (US Navy) patch 1987.png
(Apr 1954)
Sidewinders (Apr 1954) F4U
F8F
F9F-5
VF-921: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953
VF-84(2nd): 4 Feb 1953 – 1 Jul 1955
VA-86(2nd): 1 Jul 1955-15 Jul 1987
VFA-86: 15 Jul 1987–present
VFA-86Not applicable, still existsUSNR VF-921 activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-8(2nd) when it was established on 9 Apr. Permanently activated and redesignated VF-84 in 1953
VF-84
(1955-95)

(third use)
Vf84 vagabonds insig small.jpg
Fighter Squadron 84 (US Navy) insignia, 1980.png
(1960)
Vagabonds,
Jolly Rogers (1960)
FJ-3
F8U/F-8
F-4
F-14
VA-86(1st): 1 July 1955-1 Jul 1955
VF-84(3rd): 1 Jul 1955 – 1 Oct 1995
VF-84 (3rd)1 October 1995Established as VA-86(1st) on 1 Jul 1955 and redesignated VF-84(3rd) on the same day. Replaced VF-84(2nd) in CVG-8(2nd) when VF-84(2nd) was redesignated a VA squadron in CVG-8(2nd). Second "Jolly Rogers" squadron, adopted name and insignia on 1 Apr 1960 following disestablishment of VF-61.
CVG-9 (2nd): CVAG-9 redesignated CVG-9 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 1 Dec 1949
VF-91
(1948-50)

(first use)
VF-20 Feb 1946.jpeg
Attack Squadron 34 (US Navy) insignia c1966.png
(1949)
Jokers F8F VF-20: 15 Oct 1943-15 Nov 1946
VF-9A: 15 Nov 1946-12 Aug 1948
VF-91(1st): 12 Aug 1948 – 15 Feb 1950
VF-34(3rd): 15 Feb 1950-1 Jul 1955
VA-34(2nd): 1 Jul 1955 – 1 Jun 1969
VA-34 (2nd)1 June 1969Redesignated as one of CVG-9(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-92
(second use)
Fighter Squadron 74 (US Navy) insignia c1969.png Be-Devilers F8F VBF-20: 16 Apr 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-10A: 15 Nov 1946-12 Aug 1948
VF-92(2nd): 12 Aug 1948 – 15 Jan 1950
VF-74(3rd): 15 Jan 1950 – 30 Apr 1994
VF-74 (3rd)30 Apr 1994Redesignated as one of CVG-9(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-93
(1948-9)

(second use)
VF-93 insignia second squadron.jpeg F4U VF-93(2nd): 12 Aug 1948 – 30 Nov 1949VF-93 (2nd)30 November 1949Established as one of CVG-9(2nd)'s initial squadrons
CVG-9 (3rd): Established 26 Mar 1952, still exists as CVW-9
VF-91
(second use)
VF-91 second squadron.jpg Red Lightnings F9F-2
F9F-6
FJ-3
F8U/F-8
VF-91(2nd): 26 Mar 1952 – 1 Aug 1963
VF-194(3rd): 1 Aug 1963 – 1 Mar 1978
VF-194 (3rd)1 March 1978Established as one of CVG-9(3rd)'s initial squadrons
VF-92
(1952-75)

(third use)
Fighter Squadron 92 (US Navy) insignia c1970.png Silver Kings F4U
F9F-2
F2H
F3H
VF-92(3rd): 23 Mar 1952 – 1 Jun 1962
VF-54(2nd): 1 Jun 1962-15 Oct 1963
VF-92(4th): 1 Oct 1963 – 12 Dec 1975
VF-92 (4th)12 December 1975Established as one of CVG-9(3rd)'s initial squadrons
VF-92
(1952-75)

(fourth use)
Fighter Squadron 92 (US Navy) insignia c1970.png Silver Kings F-4 VF-92(3rd): 23 Mar 1952-1 Jun 1962
VF-54(2nd): 1 Jun 1962-15 Oct 1963
VF-92(4th): 1 Oct 1963 – 12 Dec 1975
VF-92 (4th)12 December 1975Returned to CVG-9(3rd) from CVG-5(2nd) in Oct 1963 becoming VF-92(4th) to replace VF-91(2nd)
VF-93
(third use)
Insignia of VF-93 third squadron.jpeg Blue Blazers (1954) FG-1
F9F-2/5
F9F-8
VF-93(3rd): 26 Mar 1952 – 15 Sep 1956
VA-93: 15 Sep 1956 – 30 Aug 1986
VA-9330 August 1986Established as one of CVG-9(3rd)'s initial squadrons
VF-94
(1952-8)

(second use)
VF-94 original tough kitties WWII.jpeg
(1952)
VF-94 tough kitties 1955 insignia.jpeg
(1955)
Tough Kitties (adopted from disestablished VF-94(1st)) F4U
F9F Panther
FJ-3
F9F Cougar
VF-94(2nd): 26 Mar 1952 – 1 Aug 1958
VA-94(2nd): 1 Aug 1958-28 Jun 1990
VFA-94: 28 Jun 1990–present
VFA-94Not applicable, still existsEstablished as one of CVG-9(3rd)'s initial squadrons
VF-96 Fighter Squadron 96 (US Navy) insignia c1970.png Fighting Falcons F8U/F-8
F-4
VF-791: 20 Jul 1950-4 Feb 1953
VF-142(1st): 4 Feb 1953-1 Jun 1962
VF-96: 1 Jun 1962 – 1 Dec 1975
VF-961 December 1975USNR VF-971 activated on 20 Jul 1959 for the Korean War. Redesignated VF-96 to replace VF-92(3rd) in CVG-9(3rd) when VF-92(3rd) was moved to CVG-5(2nd)
CVG-10 (2nd): Established 1 May 1952, disestablished 20 Nov 1969 as CVW-10(1st)
VF-101 Strike Fighter Squadron 101 (US Navy) patch 2012.png Grim Reapers FG-1
F2H
F4D
F3H/F-3
F4H/F-4
F-14
VF-101: 1 May 1952 – 1 May 2012
(inactive 30 Sep 2005 – 1 May 2012)
VFA-101: 1 May 2012 – present
(inactive 1 Jul 2019–present)
(same sqdn listed in VFA section)
VFA-1011 July 2019
(deactivated)
Established as one of CVG-10(2nd)'s initial squadrons, however it never deployed with CVG-10 and was moved to CVG-1 (without being redesignated) in 1954. Adopted "Grim Reapers" name and insignia from disestablished VF-10. Transferred to RCVG-4 in 1958 (without being redesignated) and operated as a FRS from Apr 1958 to 30 Sep 2005. The squadron was deactivated on 30 Sep 2005, reactivated on 1 May 2012 as a VFA FRS and deactivated a second time on 1 July 2019.
VF-102
(1952-55)

(first use)
Insignia of the first u s navy squadron VF-102.jpeg FG-1
F9F-5
VF-102(1st): 1 May 1952 – 1 Jul 1955
VA-36(1st): 1 Jul 1955 – 1 Aug 1970
VA-36 (1st)1 August 1970Established as one of CVG-10(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-102
(second use)
Fighter Squadron 102 (US Navy) insignia c1973.png Diamondbacks F2H
F4D
F4H/F-4
F-14
VA-36(1st): 1 Jul 1955-1 Jul 1955
VF-102(2nd): 1 Jul 1955-Jan 2002
VFA-102: Jan 2002–present
VFA-102Not applicable, still existsEstablished as VA-36(1st) on 1 Jul 1955 and redesignated VF-102(2nd) on the same day to replace VF-102(1st) in CVG-10(2nd) when VF-102(1st) was redesignated a VA squadron
VF-103 Fighter Squadron 103 (US Navy) insignia c1966.png
(Sluggers)
Fighter Squadron 103 (US Navy) insignia 1995.png
(Jolly Rogers)
Sluggers (1952)
Flying Cougars (1953)
Sluggers (1957)
Jolly Rogers (1995)
FG-1
F9F Cougar
F8U/F-8
F-4
F-14
VF-103: 1 May 1952-Feb 2005
VFA-103: Feb 2005–present

VFA-103
Not applicable, still existsEstablished as one of CVG-10(2nd)'s initial squadrons.
Third "Jolly Rogers" squadron. Adopted "Jolly Rogers" name and insignia following VF-84(3rd)'s disestablishment.
VF-104 Attack Squadron 104 (US Navy) insignia, 1952.png Hell's Archers F4U VF-104: 1 May 1952 – 4 Dec 1953
VA-104: 4 Dec 1953 – 31 Mar 1959
VA-10431 March 1959Established as one of CVG-10(2nd)'s initial squadrons
CVG-11 (2nd): CVAG-11 redesignated CVG-11 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, still exists as CVW-11
VF-111
(first use)
VF-111 VFC-111 Emblems.svg Sundowners F9F-2
F9F-8
FJ-3
VF-11(1st): 10 Oct 1942-15 Nov 1946
VF-11A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948
VF-111(1st)15 Jul 1948 – 19 Jan 1959
VF-111 (1st)19 January 1959Redesignated as one of CVG-11(2nd)'s initial squadrons.
First "Sundowners" squadron, name and insignia created by VF-11(1st) and carried through VF-11A and VF-111(1st) redesignations
VF-111
(1956-95)

(second use)
VF-111 VFC-111 Emblems.svg Sundowners F11F
F8U/F-8
VA-156: 4 Jun 1956-20 Jan 1959
VF-111(2nd): 20 Jan 1959 – 1 Sep 1964
VF-26(2nd): 1 Sep 1964-17 Sep 1964
VF-111(3rd): 17 Sep 1964 – 31 Mar 1995
VF-111 (3rd)31 March 1995Redesignated VF-111(2nd) to replace VF-111(1st) in CVG-11(2nd) when VF-111(1st) was disestablished.
Second "Sundowners" squadron, name and insignia adopted upon redesignation to VF-111(2nd), carried through brief redesignation to VF-26(2nd) and back to VF-111(3rd)
VF-111
(1956-95)

(third use)
VF-111 VFC-111 Emblems.svg Sundowners F-8
F-4
F-14
VA-156: 4 Jun 1956-20 Jan 1959
VF-111(2nd): 20 Jan 1959-1 Sep 1964
VF-26(2nd): 1 Sep 1964-17 Sep 1964
VF-111(3rd): 17 Sep 1964 – 31 Mar 1995
VF-111 (3rd)31 March 1995Second "Sundowners" squadron. VF-111(2nd) was redesignated VF-26(2nd) for 16 days in Sep 1964 before it was redesignated back to VF-111(3rd). It was moved to CVG-2(2nd) and remained there for a deployment even after being redesignated back to VF-111(3rd). VFC-111 was established in November 2006 at NAS Key West with F-5 Tiger II aircraft and adopted the name and insignia becoming the third "Sundowners" squadron
VF-112 Insignia of u s navy squadron VF-112.jpeg F8F
F9F Panther
F9F Cougar
F3H
VBF-11: 9 Apr 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-12A: 15 Nov 1946-15 July 1948
VF-112: 15 Jul 1948 – 15 Feb 1959
VA-112: 15 Feb 1959 – 10 Oct 1969
VA-11210 October 1969Redesignated as one of CVG-11(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-113 VA-113 stingers insignia.png Stingers F8F
F4U
F9F Panther
F9F Cougar
VF-113: 15 Jul 1948-Mar 1956
VA-113: Mar 1956-25 Mar 1983
VFA-113: 25 Mar 1983–present
VFA-113Not applicable, still existsEstablished as one of CVG-11(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-114 Fighter Squadron 114 (US Navy) insignia, 1950.png
Fighter Squadron 114 (US Navy) insignia c1981.png
(1961)
Executioners,
Aardvarks (1961)
F4U
F9F Panther
F2H
F3H
F4H/F-4
F-14
VBF-19: 20 Jan 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-20A: 15 Nov 1946-24 Aug 1948
VF-192(1st): 24 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950
VF-114: 15 Feb 1950 – 30 Apr 1993
VF-11430 April 1993Redesignated VF-114 and added to CVG-11(2nd) as its 4th VF sqdn
CVG-12 (2nd): Established as CVG-102 1 Aug 1950 to received USNR squadrons activated for the Korean War, redesignated CVG-12 (2nd) 4 Feb 1952, redesignated RCVG-12 1 Apr 1958 to control FRSs, disestablished 30 Jun 1970 as RCVW-12
VF-121 Fighter Squadron 121 (United States Navy - insignia).jpg Pacemakers F9F Panther
F9F Cougar
F3H
FJ-3
F11F
F4H/F-4
VF-781: 1950-4 Feb 1953
VF-121: 4 Feb 1953 – 30 Sep 1980
VF-12130 September 1980USNR VF-781 activated in 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-102 when it was established 1 Aug 1950. CVG-102 was later redesignated CVG-12(2nd) on 4 Feb 1952. VF-781 redesignated VF-121 and permanently activated in 1953.
On 1 Apr 1958 CVG-12(2nd) was redesignated RCVG-12 to control Pacific Fleet Fleet Replacement Squadrons (FRS) and VF-121 became a FRS from Apr 1958 to its disestablishment
VF-122 Black Angels F9F-5
F9F-8
F3H
VF-783: 20 Jul 1950-4 Feb 1953
VF-122: 4 Feb 1953 – 10 Apr 1958
VF-12210 April 1958USNR VF-783 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-102 when it was established 1 Aug 1950. CVG-102 was later redesignated CVG-12(2nd) on 4 Feb 1952. VF-783 redesignated VF-122 and permanently activated in 1953
VF-123 Insignia of u s navy VF-123 blue racers.jpeg
Insigna of u s navy VF-123 pukin dogs.gif
(1953)
Blue Racers,
Pukin' Dogs
(1953)
F9F-2 VF-871: 20 Jul 1950-4 Feb 1953
VF-123: 4 Feb 1953 – 12 Apr 1958
VF-53(3rd): 12 Apr 1958-20 Jun 1962
VF-143(2nd): 20 Jun 1962-2005
VFA-143: 2005–present
VFA-143Not applicable, still existsUSNR VF-871 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-102 when it was established 1 Aug 1950. CVG-102 was later redesignated CVG-12(2nd) on 4 Feb 1952. VF-871 redesignated VF-123 and permanently activated in 1953
VF-124
(1950-8)

(first use)
VF-124patch.jpg Stingarees F7U VF-874: 20 Jul 1959-4 Feb 1953
VF-124(1st): 4 Feb 1953 – 10 Apr 1958
VF-124 (1st)10 April 1958USNR VF-874 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-102 when it was established 1 Aug 1950. CVG-102 was later redesignated CVG-12(2nd) on 4 Feb 1952. VF-874 redesignated VF-124 and permanently activated in 1953
VF-124
(second use)
VF-124 FRS.jpg Gunfighters F7U
F9F-8T/TF-9
TV-2/T-33
F8U/F-8
F-14
VF-53(2nd): 16 Aug 1948-11 Apr 1958
VF-124(2nd): 11 Apr 1958 – 30 Sep 1994
VF-124 (2nd)30 September 1994CVG-12(2nd) was redesignated RCVG-12 on 1 Apr 1958 to operate Fleet Replacement Squadrons (FRS). VF-53(2nd) was redesignated VF-124(2nd) and operated as a Pacific Fleet FRS
VF-126 First insignia of u s navy VF-126.gif
(1965)
Fighter Squadron 126 (US Navy) insignia, 1982.png
(1981)
Fighting Seahawks
(1965)
Bandits
(1981)
F-1
T-2
A-4
F-5
F-16N
F-14
VA-126: 6 Apr 1956-15 Oct 1965
VF-126: 15 Oct 1965 – 1 Apr 1994
VF-1261 April 1994CVG-12(2nd) was redesignated RCVG-12 (RCVW-12 after 20 Dec 1963) on 1 Apr 1958 to operate Fleet Replacement Squadrons (FRS) and other training support squadrons. VA-126 (a VA FRS in RCVW-12) was redesignated VF-126 and operated as an "aggressor" squadron providing air to air combat training
CVG-13 (2nd): CVAG-13 redesignated CVG-13 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 30 Nov 1949
VF-131
(first use)
Fighter Squadron 21 (US Navy) patch.png Freelancers F4U VF-81(1st): 2 Mar 1944-15 Nov 1946
VF-13A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948
VF-131(1st): 2 Aug 1948 – 15 Feb 1950
VF-64: 15 Feb 1950-1 Jul 1959
VF-21(3rd): 1 Jul 1959 – 31 Jan 1996
VF-21 (3rd)1 July 1959Redesignated as one of CVG-13(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-132
(1945-9)

(first use)
F8F VBF-81: 13 May 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-14A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948
VF-132(1st): 2 Aug 1948 – 30 Nov 1949
VF-132 (1st)30 November 1949Redesignated as one of CVG-13(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-133 F8F VF-133: 2 Aug 1948-1949 or 1950VF-1331949 or 1950Established as one of CVG-13(2nd)'s initial squadrons
CVG-13 (3rd): Established 21 Aug 1961, disestablished 1 Oct 1962
VF-131
(1961-2)

(second use)
Nightcappers F3H VF-131(2nd): 21 Aug 1961 – 1 Oct 1962VF-131 (2nd)1 October 1962Established as one of CVG-13(3rd)'s initial squadrons
VF-132
(1961-2)

(second use)
VF-132 swordsmen.jpg Swordsmen F8U/F-8 VF-132(2nd): 31 Aug 1961 – 1 Oct 1962VF-132 (2nd)1 October 1962Established as one of CVG-13(3rd)'s initial squadrons
CVG-14 (2nd): Established as CVG-101 1 Aug 1950 to receive USNR squadrons activated for the Korean War, redesignated CVG-14 (2nd) 4 Feb 1952, deactivated 31 Mar 2017 as CVW-14
VF-141 Fighter Squadron 53 (US Navy) insignia c1968.png Iron Angels F9F-2
F2H
F4D
F3H
F8U/F-8
VF-721: 20 Jul 1950-4 Feb 1953
VF-141: 4 Feb 1953 – 15 Oct 1963
VF-53(4th): 15 Oct 1963 – 29 Jan 1971
VF-53 (4th)29 January 1971USNR VF-721 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-101 when it was established 1 Aug 1950. CVG-101 was later redesignated CVG-14(2nd) on 4 Feb 1952. VF-721 redesignated VF-141 and permanently activated in 1953
VF-142
(first use)
Fighter Squadron 142 (US Navy) insignia c1955.png Fighting Falcons F4U
F9F-6
F8U
VF-791: 20 Jul 1950-4 Feb 1953
VF-142(1st): 4 Feb 1953 – 1 Jun 1962
VF-96: 1 Jun 1962 – 1 Dec 1975
VF-961 December 1975USNR VF-791 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-101 when it was established 1 Aug 1950. CVG-101 was later redesignated CVG-14(2nd) on 4 Feb 1952. VF-791 redesignated VF-142 and permanently activated in 1953
VF-142
(1948-95)

(second use)
Vf142ghost.jpg Ghostriders F-4
F-14
VF-193: 24 Aug 1948-15 Oct 1963
VF-142(2nd): 15 Oct 1963 – 30 Apr 1995
VF-142 (2nd)30 April 1995Replaced VF-141 in when it was redesignated and moved to CVG-5(2nd)
VF-143
(first use)
Fighter Squadron 143 (United States Navy) insignia c1957.png Kingpins F9F-6
FJ-3
VF-821: 20 Jul 1959-5 Feb 1953
VF-143(1st): 4 Feb 1953 – 1 Apr 1958
VF-143 (1st)1 April 1958USNR VF-821 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-101 when it was established 1 Aug 1950. CVG-101 was later redesignated CVG-14(2nd) on 4 Feb 1952. VF-821 redesignated VF-143 and permanently activated in 1953
VF-143
(second use)
US-Navy-VFA-143-Squadron-Patch.svg Pukin Dogs F4H/F-4
F-14
VF-871: 20 Jul 1950-4 Feb 1953
VF-123: 4 Feb 1953-12 Apr 1958
VF-53(3rd): 12 Apr 1958-20 Jun 1962
VF-143(2nd): 20 Jun 1962-2005
VFA-143: 2005–present
VFA-143Not applicable, still existsReplaced VF-142(1st) when it was redesignated and moved to CVG-9(3rd)
VF-144 Insignia of u s navy VF-144.jpeg F4U
F9F Panther
F9F Cougar
AD
VF-884: 20 Jul 1959-4 Feb 1953
VF-144: 4 Feb 1953 – 23 Feb 1959
VA-52: 23 Feb 1959 – 31 Mar 1995
VA-5231 March 1995USNR VF-884 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-101 when it was established 1 Aug 1950. CVG-101 was later redesignated CVG-14(2nd) on 4 Feb 1952. VF-884 redesignated VF-144 and permanently activated in 1953
CVG-15 (2nd): CVAG-15 redesignated CVG-15 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 1 Dec 1949
VF-151
(second use)
Insignia of u s navy VF-151(2nd).jpg Black Knights F8F VF-153(1st): 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-15A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948
VF-151(2nd): 15 Jul 1948 – 15 Feb 1950
VF-192(2nd): 15 Feb 1950-15 Mar 1956
VA-192: 15 Mar 1956-10 Jan 1986
VFA-192: 10 Jan 1986–present
VFA-192Not applicable, still existsRedesignated as one of CVG-15(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-152
(1953-8)

(second use)
Insignia of u s navy squadron VF-16A VF-152(2nd) VF-54(1st).jpg Copperheads F8F
AD
F4U
VBF-153: 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-16A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948
VF-152(2nd): 15 Jul 1948 – 15 Feb 1950
VF-54(1st): 15 Feb 1950-15 Jun 1956
VA-54(2nd): 15 Jun 1956 – 1 Apr 1958
VA-54 (2nd)1 April 1958Redesignated as one of CVG-15(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-153
(1948-50)

(second use)
Thundercats F8F VF-153(2nd): 15 Jul 1948 – 15 Feb 1950
VF-194(1st): 15 Feb 1950-4 May 1955
VA-196: 4 May 1955 – 21 Mar 1997
VA-19621 March 1997Established as one of CVG-15(2nd)'s initial squadrons
CVG-15 (3rd): Established 5 Apr 1951 to receive USNR squadrons activated for the Korean War, disestablished 31 Mar 1995 as CVW-15
VF-151
(third use)
Insignia of u s navy VF-151(2nd).jpg Black Knights F9F-5
F7U
VF-653: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953
VF-151(3rd): 4 Feb 1953 – 7 Feb 1956
VA-151: 7 Feb 1956-23 Feb 1959
VA-23: 23 Feb 1959 – 1 Apr 1970
VA-231 April 1970USNR VF-653 activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-15(3rd) when it was established on 5 Apr [11] Permanently activated and redesignated VF-151 in 1953. Adopted the name and insignia of VF-151(2nd) which had been redesignated VF-192 three years earlier.
VF-151
(fourth use)
Insignia of u s navy squadron VF-151.jpeg Vigilantes F3H/F-3
F-4
VF-23(2nd): 6 Aug 1948-23 Feb 1959
VF-151(4th): 23 Feb 1959 – 1 Jun 1986
VFA-151: 1 Jun 1986–present
VFA-151Not applicable, still existsMoved to CVG-15(3rd) as the second VF squadron after VF-151(3d), VF-152(3rd) and VF-153(3rd) all became VA squadrons in the Air Group
VF-152
(third use)
First insignia of u s navy squadron VF-152(3rd).jpeg
Insignia of u s navy squadron VF-16A VF-152(2nd) VF-54(1st).jpg
(late 1953)
Vultures,
Fighting Aces (late 1953),
Friendlies (1957)
FG-1
F3H
VF-713: late 1940s-4 Feb 1953 [12]
VF-152(3rd): 4 Feb 1953 – 1 Aug 1958
VA-152: 1 Aug 1958 – 29 Jan 1971
VA-15229 January 1971USNR VF-713 Activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-15(3rd) when it was established on 5 Apr. Permanently activated and redesignated VF-152 in 1953. Adopted the flying ace insignia from disestablished VF-152(2nd)
VF-153
(1953-6)

(third use)
Insignia of u s navy third VF-153 blue tail flies.jpeg Blue Tail Flies F9F-5
F9F Cougar
FJ-3
VF-718: est date unk-Sep 1949
VF-831: Sep 1949-4 Feb 1953 [13]
VF-153(3rd): 4 Feb 1953 – 17 Dec 1956
VA-153: 17 Dec 1956 – 30 Sep 1977
VA-15330 September 1977USNR VF-831 activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-15(3rd) when it was established on 5 Apr. Permanently activated and redesignated VF-153 in 1953
VF-154 Strike Fighter Squadron 154 (US Navy) insignia 2013.png
(1957)
Black Knights (1957) F9F Panther
FJ-3
F8U/F-8
F-4
F-14
VF-837: 1 Feb 1951-4 Feb 1953
VF-154: 4 Feb 1953-Oct 2003
VFA-154: Oct 2003–present
VFA-154Not applicable, still existsUSNR VF-837 activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-15(3rd) when it was established on 5 Apr. Permanently activated and redesignated VF-154 in 1953
CVG-16 (2nd): Established 1 Sep 1960, disestablished 30 Jun 1970 as CVW-16
VF-161 Fighter Squadron 161 (US Navy) insignia c1984.png Chargers F3H/F-3
F-4
VF-161: 1 Sep 1960 – 1 Jun 1986
VFA-161: 1 Jun 1986-1 Apr 1988
(same sqdn listed in VFA section)
VFA-1611 April 1988Established as one of CVG-16(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-162 Fighter Squadron 162 (US Navy) patch 1962.png Hunters F4D/F-6
F-8
VF-162: 1 Sep 1960 – 29 Jan 1971VF-16229 January 1971Established as one of CVG-16(2nd)'s initial squadrons
CVG-17 (2nd): CVAG-17 redesignated CVG-17 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 15 Sep 1958
VF-171
(first use)
VF-171 screamin deamons aces.jpeg Screamin Deamons
(1949),
Aces
(1953)
FH-1
F2H
VF-82(1st): 1 Apr 1944-15 Nov 1956
VF-17A: 15 Nov 1946-11 Aug 1948
VF-171(1st): 11 Aug 1948 – 15 Mar 1958
VF-171 (1st)15 March 1958Redesignated as one of CVG-17(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-172 Insignia of u s navy VBF-82, VF-18A, VF-172.png
Attack Squadron 172 Insignia (US Navy).png
(1950)
Checkmates,
Bluebolts
(1950)
F8F
FH
F2H
VBF-82: 20 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-18A: 15 Nov 1946-11 Aug 1948
VF-172: 11 Aug 1948 – 1 Nov 1955
VA-172: 1 Nov 1955 – 15 Jan 1971
VA-17215 January 1971Redesignated as one of CVG-17(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-173 Jesters F8F
F4U
F9F-6
FJ-3
VF-173: 11 Aug 1948 – 1 Feb 1959VF-1731 February 1959Established as one of CVG-17(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-174 Insignia of u s navy VF-174.jpeg Hellrazors F4U
F9F-6
FJ-3
F9F-8
F8U/F-8
VB-81: 1 Mar 1944-15 Nov 1946
VA-13A: 15 Nov 1946-2 Aug 1948
VA-134(1st): 2 Aug 1948-15 Feb 1950
VF-174: 15 Feb 1950 – 1 Jul 1966
VA-174(2nd): 1 Jul 1966 – 30 Jun 1988
VA-174 (2nd)30 June 1988Redesignated VF-174 and added to CVG-17(2nd) as its 4th VF sqdn after CVG-13(2nd) was disestablished.
Transferred to RCVG-4 in 1958 (without being redesignated) and operated as a FRS from 1 May 1958 to 1 Jul 1966
CVG-19 (2nd): CVAG-19 redesignated CVG-19 (2nd) 1 Sep 1948, disestablished 30 Jun 1977 as CVW-19
VF-191
(first use)
Vf191.jpg Satan's Kittens F8F
F9F Panther
F9F Cougar
FJ-3
F11F
F8U/F-8
F-4
VF-19: 15 Aug 1943-15 Nov 1946
VF-19A: 15 Nov 1946-24 Aug 1948
VF-191(1st): 24 Aug 1948 – 1 Mar 1978
VF-191 (1st)1 March 1978Redesignated as one of CVG-19(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-192
(first use)
Fighter Squadron 114 (United States Navy - insignia).jpg Executioners F4U VBF-19: 20 Jan 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-20A: 15 Nov 1946-24 Aug 1948
VF-192(1st): 24 Aug 1948 – 15 Feb 1950
VF-114: 15 Feb 1950 – 30 Apr 1993
VF-11430 April 1993Redesignated as one of CVG-19(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-192
(second use)
Vf192 insignia.jpg Black Knights,
Golden Dragons (1954)
F8F
F4U
F9F Panther
F9F Cougar
VF-153(1st): 26 Mar 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-15A: 15 Nov 1946-15 Jul 1948
VF-151(2nd): 15 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1950
VF-192(2nd): 15 Feb 1950 – 15 Mar 1956
VA-192: 15 Mar 1956-10 Jan 1986
VFA-192: 10 Jan 1986–present
VFA-192Not applicable, still existsRedesignated VF-192(2nd) and replaced VF-192(1st) in CVG-19(2nd) when it was redesignated VF-114 and moved to CVG-11(2nd)
VF-193 Vf142ghost.jpg Ghostriders F4U
F2H
F3H/F-3
F-4
VF-193: 24 Aug 1948 – 15 Oct 1963
VF-142(2nd): 15 Oct 1963 – 30 Apr 1995
VF-142 (2nd)30 April 1995Established as one of CVG-19(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-194
(first use)
Insignia of u s navy first squadron designated VF-194 and VA-196.jpg [14] Yellow Devils F8F
F4U
AD
VF-153(2nd): 15 Jul 1948-15 Feb 1950
VF-194(1st): 15 Feb 1950 – 4 May 1955
VA-196: 4 May 1955 – 21 Mar 1997
VA-19621 March 1997Redesignated VF-194(1st) and added to CVG-19(2nd) as its 4th VF sqdn after CVG-15(2nd) was disestablished
VF-194
(1955-8)

(second use)
Fighter Squadron 194 (United States Navy) insignia 1957.png F2H VF-194(2nd): 18 May 1955 – 10 Apr 1958VF-194 (2nd)10 April 1958Established to replace VF-194(1st) in CVG-19(2nd) when VF-194(1st) was redesignated a VA squadron
VF-194
(third use)
Fighter Squadron 194 (US Navy) patch.png Red Lightnings F-8
F-4
VF-91(2nd): 26 Mar 1952-1 Aug 1963
VF-194(3rd): 1 Aug 1963 – 1 Mar 1978
VF-194 (3rd)1 March 1978Moved to CVG-19(2nd) in 1963 to be the Air Group's second VF squadron when VF-193 was redesignated and moved to CVG-14(2nd)
CVG-21 (1st): Established 15 Sep 1948, disestablished 15 Mar 1949
VF-211
(1948-9)

(first use)
VF-211(1st): 15 Sep 1948-1949 (date unknown)VF-211 (1st)1949 (date unknown)Established as one of CVG-21(2nd)'s initial squadrons
VF-212
(first use)
VF-212(1st): 15 Sep 1948-1949 or 1950VF-212 (1st)1949 or 1950Established as one of CVG-21(2nd)'s initial squadrons
CVG-21 (2nd): Established 1 Jul 1955, disestablished 12 Dec 1975 as CVW-21
VF-211
(1955-9)

(second use)
Insignia of u s navy VF-211.jpeg Checkmates FJ-3
F8U
VF-211(2nd): Jun 1955-9 Mar 1959
VF-24(3rd): 9 Mar 1959 – 31 Aug 1996
VF-24 (3rd)31 August 1996Established as one of CVG-21(3rd)'s initial squadrons.
On 9 March 1959, VF-211(2nd) traded insignia, nicknames and designations with VF-24(2nd) becoming VF-24(3rd) while VF-24(2nd) became VF-211(3rd).
VF-211
(1959-2006)

(third use)
Insignia of u s navy VF-211.jpeg
Insignia of 3rd u s navy VF-211 "brutis".jpg
Checkmates F-8U/F-8
F-14
VB-74: 1 May 1945-15 Nov 1946
VA-1B: 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948
VA-24: 1 Sep 1948-1 Dec 1949
VF-24(2nd): 1 Dec 1949-9 Mar 1959
VF-211(3rd): 9 Mar 1959-Aug 2006
VFA-211: Aug 2006–present
VFA-211Not applicable, still existsOn 9 March 1959, VF-24(2nd) traded insignia, nicknames and designations with VF-211(2nd) becoming VF-211(3rd) in CVG-21(2nd) while VF-211(2nd) became VF-24(3rd) in CVG-2(2nd).
VF-212
(second use)
F7U VF-212(2nd): 20 Jun 1955 – 1 Apr 1956
VA-212: 1 Apr 1956 – 12 Dec 1975
VA-21212 December 1975Established as one of CVG-21(3rd)'s initial squadrons
VF-213 Insignia of u s navy VF-213.jpeg Blacklions F2H
F4D
F3H/F-3
F-4
F-14
VF-213: 22 Jun 1955 – 2 Apr 2006
VFA-213: 2 Apr 2006–present
VFA-213Not applicable, still existsEstablished as one of CVG-21(3rd)'s initial squadrons
VF-214 VF-214 squadron insignia.gif Volunteers FJ-2
F9F-8
VF-214: 30 Mar 1955 – 11 Oct 1956
VA-214(2nd): 11 Oct 1956 – 1 Aug 1958
VA-214 (2nd)1 August 1958Established as one of CVG-21(3rd)'s initial squadrons
With the end of the designation system that determined squadron designation by Air Wing assignment, newly established squadrons or redesignations were numbered in accordance with factors determined at the time of establishment or redesignation. When the U. S. Navy Reserve established two Reserve Carrier Air Wings in 1970 it adopted the former system and designated the wings' squadrons accordingly.
VF-1
(1972-93)

(fifth use)
Fighter Squadron 1 (US Navy) insignia c1978.png Wolfpack F-14 VF-1(5th): 14 Oct 1972 – 30 Sep 1993VF-1 (5th)30 September 1993One of two squadrons established to be the first to operate the new F-14A Tomcat
VF-2
(1972-2003)

(fifth use)
Fighter Squadron 2 (US Navy) insignia 1973.png Bounty Hunters F-14 VF-2(5th): 14 October 1972 – 1 Jul 2003
VFA-2: 1 Jul 2003–present
VFA-2Not applicable, still existsOne of two squadrons established to be the first to operate the new F-14A Tomcat
VF-43
(1973-94)

(fifth use)
VF-43 aggressor squadron.jpeg Challengers T-38
F-21
F-16N
T-2
VF-74A: 1 May 1945-1 Aug 1945
VF-74(2nd): 1 Aug 1945-15 Nov 1946
VF-1B(3rd): 15 Nov 1946-1 Sep 1948
VF-21(2nd): 1 Sep 1948-1 Jul 1959
VA-43: 1 Jul 1959-1 Jun 1973
VF-43(5th): 1 Jun 1973 – 1 Jul 1994
VF-43 (5th)1 July 1994VA-43 had been a FRS assigned to Replacement Air Group FOUR (RCVG-4) (RCVW-4 after Dec 1963). Though RCVW-4 was disestablished on 1 Jun 1970, its former squadrons retained their designations. When VA-43 was redesignated a VF squadron it retained the number "43". It operated as an "aggressor" squadron providing air to air combat training
VF-45
(1963-69)

(second use)
VF-45 2nd adversary.jpeg Blackbirds TA-4
F5N
F-16N
VA-45(3rd): 15 Feb 1963-7 Feb 1985
VF-45(2nd): 7 Feb 1985 – 31 Mar 1996
VF-45 (2nd)31 March 1996VA-45(3rd) had been a FRS assigned to Replacement Air Group FOUR (RCVG-4) (RCVW-4 after Dec 1963). Though RCVW-4 was disestablished on 1 Jun 1970, its former squadrons retained their designations. When VA-45(3rd) was redesignated a VF squadron it retained the number "45". It operated as an "aggressor" squadron providing air to air combat training
VF-171
(1977-84)

(second use)
VF-171 aces.jpeg Aces (adopted from VF-171(1st)) F-4 VF-171(2nd): 8 Aug 1977 – 1 Jun 1984VF-171 (2nd)1 June 1984Operated as an east coast VF FRS. Was "split out of" VF-101 to continue F-4 training when VF-101 transitioned to F-14 training
VF-191
(1986-8)

(second use)
Vf191.jpg Satan's Kittens F-14 VF-191(2nd): 1 Dec 1986 – 30 Apr 1988VF-191 (2nd)30 April 1988Adopted name and insignia of the disestablished VF-191(1st). Established as one of the two VF squadrons of CVW-10(2nd) but was disestablished along with the entire wing in 1988.
VF-194
(1986-8)

(fourth use)
Vf194.jpg Red Lightnings F-14 VF-194(4th): 1 Dec 1986 – 30 Apr 1988VF-194 (4th)30 April 1988Adopted name and insignia of the disestablished VF-194(3rd). Established as one of the two VF squadrons of CVW-10(2nd) but was disestablished along with the entire wing in 1988.
VF-201 VF-201 USNR squadron insignia.jpeg Hunters F-8
F-4
F-14
VF-201: 25 Jul 1970-Jan 1999
VFA-201: Jan 1999–present
(Inactive 30 Jun 2007–present)
(same sqdn listed in VFA section)
VFA-20130 June 2007 (deactivated)United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of Reserve Carrier Air Wing 20 (CVWR-20)
VF-202 Fighter Squadron 202 (US Navy) insignia c1970.png Superheats F-8
F-4
F-14
VF-202: 1 Jul 1970 – 31 Dec 1994VF-20231 December 1994United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of Reserve Carrier Air Wing 20 (CVWR-20)
VF-301
(second use)
Fighter Squadron 301 (United States Navy) insignia, 1974.png Devil's Disciples F-8
F-4
F-14
VF-301(2nd): 1 Oct 1970 – 31 Dec 1994VF-301 (2nd)31 December 1994United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of Reserve Carrier Air Wing 30 (CVWR-30)
VF-302
(second use)
Vf302.jpg Stallions F-8
F-4
F-14
VF-302(2nd): 21 May 1971 – 31 Dec 1994VF-302 (2nd)31 December 1994United States Navy Reserve Squadron. Established as part of Reserve Carrier Air Wing THIRTY (CVWR-30)
U. S. Navy Reserve Squadrons activated for service in the Korean War. There were many U. S. Navy Reserve squadrons during the period from the end of WWII through the 1960s all designated with three digit numbers in the 600, 700, 800 and 900 series. Only those few squadrons which were called to active duty are included in this table.
VF-653 VF-653 USNR warrior dragon.jpg Warrior Dragon F4U
F9F Panther
VF-653: Dec 1949-4 Feb 1953
VF-151(3rd): 4 Feb 1953-7 Feb 1956
VA-151: 7 Feb 1956-23 Feb 1959
VA-23: 23 Feb 1959 – 1 Apr 1970
VA-231 April 1970USNR VF-653 activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to Air Task Group ONE (ATG-1), [15] redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953
VF-671 VF-671 USNR squadron.jpeg Waldomen F4U
F8F
F9F-5
VF-671: 1 Feb 1951 – 4 Feb 1953
VF-81(3rd): 4 Feb 1953-1 Jul 1955
VA-66(2nd): 1 Jul 1955 – 1 Oct 1986
VA-66 (2nd)1 October 1986USNR VF-671 activated 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-8(2nd), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953
VF-713 Vf713 insig small.jpg Vultures F4U VF-713: late 1940s-4 Feb 1953 [12]
VF-152(3rd): 4 Feb 1953-1 Aug 1958
VA-152: 1 Aug 1958 – 29 Jan 1971
VA-15229 January 1971USNR VF-713 Activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-15(3rd), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953
VF-721 Fighter Squadron 53 (US Navy) insignia c1968.png Iron Angels F9F-2 VF-721: 20 Jul 1950 – 4 Feb 1953
VF-141: 4 Feb 1953-15 Oct 1963
VF-53(4th): 15 Oct 1963 – 29 Jan 1971
VF-53 (4th)29 January 1971USNR VF-721 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-101 (later redesignated to CVG-14(2nd)), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953
VF-742 Iron Men F4U
F9F-5
VF-742: 2 Feb 1951 – 4 Feb 1953
VF-82(3rd): 4 Feb 1953 – 15 April 1959
VF-82 (3rd)15 April 1959USNR VF-742 activated on 2 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-8(2nd), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953
VF-781 VF-781 USNR squadron.jpg Pacemakers F4U
F9F Panther
VF-781: 1950-4 Feb 1953
VF-121: 4 Feb 1953 – 30 Sep 1980
VF-12130 September 1980USNR VF-781 activated in 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-102 (later redesignated to CVG-12(2nd)), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953
VF-783 VF-783 minute men squadron USNR.jpg Minute Men F4U
F9F-5
VF-783: 20 Jul 1950 – 4 Feb 1953
VF-122: 4 Feb 1953 – 10 Apr 1958
VF-12210 April 1958USNR VF-783 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-102 (later redesignated to CVG-12(2nd)), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953
VF-791 Fighter Squadron 142 (US Navy) insignia c1955.png Fighting Falcons F4U
F9F-6
VF-791: 20 Jul 1950 – 4 Feb 1953
VF-142(1st): 4 Feb 1953-1 Jun 1962
VF-96: 1 Jun 1962 – 1 Dec 1975
VF-961 December 1975USNR VF-971 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-101 (later redesignated to CVG-14(2nd)), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953
VF-821 VF-821 USNR squadron.jpg F4U
F9F-6
VF-821: 20 Jul 1959 – 5 Feb 1953
VF-143(1st): 4 Feb 1953 – 1 Apr 1958
VF-143 (1st)1 April 1958USNR VF-821 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-101 (later redesignated to CVG-14(2nd)), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953
VF-831 VF-831 USNR squadron.jpg F9F Panther VF-718: est date unk-Sep 1949
VF-831: Sep 1949-4 Feb 1953 [13]
VF-153(3rd): 4 Feb 1953-17 Dec 1956
VA-153: 17 Dec 1956 – 30 Sep 1977
VA-15330 September 1977USNR VF-831 activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-15(3rd), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953
VF-837 VF-837 USNR squadron.jpeg F9F-2 VF-837: 1 Feb 1951 – 4 Feb 1953
VF-154: 4 Feb 1953-Oct 2003
VFA-154: Oct 2003–present
VFA-154Not applicable, still existsUSNR VF-837 activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-15(3rd), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953
VF-871 VF-871 USNR squadron.jpeg F4U VF-871: 20 Jul 1950 – 4 Feb 1953
VF-123: 4 Feb 1953-12 Apr 1958
VF-53(3rd): 12 Apr 1958-20 Jun 1962
VF-143(2nd): 20 Jun 1962-2005
VFA-143: 2005–present
VFA-143Not applicable, still existsUSNR VF-871 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-102 (later redesignated to CVG-12(2nd)), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953
VF-874 VF-874 USNR squadron.jpeg F4U VF-874: 20 Jul 1950 – 4 Feb 1953
VF-124(1st): 4 Feb 1953 – 10 Apr 1958
VF-124 (1st)10 April 1958USNR VF-874 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-102 (later redesignated to CVG-12(2nd)), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953
VF-884 VF-884 USNR squadron.jpeg Bitter Birds F4U VF-884: 20 Jul 1950 – 4 Feb 1953
VF-144: 4 Feb 1953-23 Feb 1959
VA-52: 23 Feb 1959 – 31 Mar 1995
VA-5231 March 1995USNR VF-884 activated on 20 Jul 1950 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-101 (later redesignated to CVG-14(2nd)), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953
VF-916 VF-83 Roaring Bulls.jpeg Roaring Bulls F4U
F8F
F9F-5
VF-916: 1 Feb 1951 – 4 Feb 1953
VF-83(3rd): 4 Feb 1953-1 Jul 1955
VA-83: 1 Jul 1955-3 Mar 1958
VFA-83: 3 Mar 1958–present
VFA-83Not applicable, still existsUSNR VF-916 activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-8(2nd), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953
VF-921 VF-921 USNR.jpeg F4U VF-921: 1 Feb 1951 – 4 Feb 1953
VF-84(2nd): 4 Feb 1953-1 Jul 1955
VA-86(2nd): 1 Jul 1955-15 Jul 1987
VFA-86: 15 Jul 1987–present
VFA-86Not applicable, still existsUSNR VF-921 activated on 1 Feb 1951 for the Korean War and assigned to CVG-8(2nd), redesignated and permanently activated on 4 Feb 1953

See also

References and notes

Notes

  1. Where not listed in a wikipedia article, aircraft assignment was derived from "http://www.wings-aviation.ch/25-Navy-Sqn/Squadron-Basis-en.htm"
  2. Carrier assignment of early squadrons through 1937 were derived from "http://www.wings-aviation.ch"
  3. Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons (DANAS) Vol I chap 1 pg 9 references the "Navy Directory dated 1 January 1922" which listed two "combat squadrons"; Combat Squadron 3 and Combat Squadron 4 in existence as of the date of issuance. DANAS Vol 1 App 4 lists squadron designations and lists the "VF" designation as the designation for "Combat Squadron" in 1922. It is possible that the "VF-4" and "Combat Squadron 4" listings may be in error and that one of the two squadrons was combat squadron 3 and the other was combat squadron 4
  4. Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons (DANAS) Vol I chap 1 pg 9 references the "Navy Directory dated 1 January 1922" which listed two "combat squadrons"; Combat Squadron 3 and Combat Squadron 4 in existence as of the date of issuance. DANAS Vol 1 App 4 lists squadron designations and lists the "VF" designation as the designation for "Combat Squadron" in 1922. It is possible that the "VF-4" and "Combat Squadron 4" listings may be in error and that one of the two squadrons was combat squadron 3 and the other was combat squadron 4

References

  1. Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I App 4
  2. Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I Chap 1
  3. 1 2 "Lineage for Fighter Squadrons" (PDF). Naval History and Heritage Command. Retrieved 24 December 2021.
  4. 1 2 Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 9
  5. 1 2 "Carrier Aviation's First Squadron". www.vfa2.navy.mil.
  6. "History early". Archived from the original on 9 October 2018. Retrieved 8 February 2019.
  7. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 "The Second Fighting TWO". www.vfa2.navy.mil.
  8. 1 2 3 Dictionary of America Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 1 pg 10
  9. "The Third Fighting TWO". www.vfa2.navy.mil.
  10. 1 2 "CV-41(1945-1973)". www.gonavy.jp.
  11. Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol 1 pg 36
  12. 1 2 Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I chap 2 pg 214
  13. 1 2 Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I Chap 2 pg 218
  14. Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol I Chap 2 pg 264
  15. Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol 1 pg 35

Bibliography

Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons:

Related Research Articles

The Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons (DANAS) is a multivolume work published by Naval Historical Center of the U.S. Department of the Navy's Naval History & Heritage Command. It covers naval aviation in much the same way as the Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships (DANFS) covers commissioned vessels.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">VFA-102</span> Military unit

Strike Fighter Squadron 102 (VFA-102) is a United States Navy Strike Fighter squadron based at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni. Their call sign is Diamond, with the tail code NF, and they fly the F/A-18F Super Hornet.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">VFA-103</span> Military unit

Strike Fighter Squadron 103 (VFA-103), nicknamed the Jolly Rogers, is an aviation unit of the United States Navy established in 1952. VFA-103 flies the F/A-18F Super Hornet and is based at Naval Air Station Oceana, Virginia (US). The squadron's radio callsign is Victory and it is assigned to Carrier Air Wing Seven.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Carrier air wing</span> Group of aircraft units operating from an aircraft carrier

A carrier air wing is an operational naval aviation organization composed of several aircraft squadrons and detachments of various types of fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft. Organized, equipped and trained to conduct modern US Navy carrier air operations while embarked aboard aircraft carriers, the various squadrons in an air wing have different but complementary missions, and provide most of the striking power and electronic warfare capabilities of a carrier battle group (CVBG). While the CVBG term is still used by other nations, the CVBG in US parlance is now known as a carrier strike group (CSG).

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Carrier Air Wing Nine</span> Military unit

Carrier Air Wing Nine (CVW-9) is a United States Navy aircraft carrier air wing based at Naval Air Station Lemoore. The Air Wing is currently assigned to the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72). The Tail Code of aircraft assigned to CVW-9 is NG.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">VFA-2</span> Military unit

Strike Fighter Squadron 2 (VFA-2) also known as the "Bounty Hunters" is a United States Navy F/A-18F Super Hornet strike fighter squadron based at Naval Air Station Lemoore, California. Their tail code is NE and their callsign is "Bullet". They are attached to Carrier Air Wing 2 (CVW-2), a composite unit made up of a wide array of aircraft performing a variety of combat and support missions that deploy aboard the Carl Vinson.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">VFA-101</span> Military unit

Strike Fighter Squadron 101 (VFA-101), also known as the "Grim Reapers", was a United States Navy Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) based at Eglin AFB, Florida. After the West Coast FRS for the F-14 Tomcat, VF-124, was disestablished in the mid-1990s, VF-101 became the sole F-14 FRS. At the time it was based at NAS Oceana in Virginia. With the retirement of the F-14, VF-101 was deactivated in 2005. It was reactivated in 2012 and redesignated Strike Fighter Squadron 101 (VFA-101). It was one of two F-35C Lightning II FRS before being deactivated in 2019. It was based at Eglin AFB, Florida with the joint 33d Fighter Wing, as a subordinate unit of the U.S. Navy's Strike Fighter Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Fighter Squadron 11 or VF-11 was an aviation unit of the United States Navy. It was originally established as VF-5 on 1 February 1927, redesignated as VF-5S on 1 July 1927, redesignated as VF-5B in January 1928, redesignated VB-1B on 1 July 1928, redesignated VF-5B on 1 July 1930, redesignated VF-5S in July 1932, redesignated VF-5B in April 1933, redesignated VF-4 on 1 July 1937, redesignated VF-41 on 15 March 1941, redesignated VF-4 on 4 August 1943, redesignated VF-1A on 15 November 1946, redesignated VF-11 on 2 August 1948 and disestablished on 15 February 1959. It was the second US Navy squadron to be designated VF-11.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">VFA-83</span> Military unit

Strike Fighter Squadron 83 (VFA-83), also known as the "Rampagers", are a United States Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet fighter squadron stationed at Naval Air Station Oceana. They are a part of Carrier Air Wing 3, their tailcode is AC and their radio callsign is Ram.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Carrier Air Wing Five</span> Military unit

Carrier Air Wing Five (CVW-5) is a United States Navy aircraft carrier air wing based at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni. The air wing is attached to the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan. It was initially formed in 1943. It has participated in the Second World War, the Korean War, the Gulf War, Operation Southern Watch, the War in Afghanistan, and the War in Iraq.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Carrier Air Wing Eleven</span> Military unit

Carrier Air Wing Eleven (CVW-11) is a United States Navy aircraft carrier air wing based at Naval Air Station Lemoore, California. The air wing is attached to the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Modex</span>

A modex is a number that is part of the Aircraft Visual Identification System, along with the aircraft's tail code. It usually consists of two or three numbers that the Department of the Navy, U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps use on aircraft to identify a squadron's mission and a specific aircraft within a squadron. These numbers are painted conspicuously on the aircraft's nose—or, on helicopters, sometimes on the aft portion of the fuselage or forward portion of the empennage. Modexes are also painted less conspicuously on other aircraft areas. Shore-based aviation units use either two-digit or three-digit modexes, while carrier-based units always use three digits.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Carrier Air Wing Six</span> Military unit

Carrier Air Wing Six (CVW-6) was a United States Navy aircraft carrier air wing whose operational history spans from the middle of World War II to the end of the Cold War. Established in 1943 as Carrier Air Group Seventeen (CVG-17), it would be re-designated several times during its establishment, including Carrier Air Group Six (CVG-6) as the second unit to be so designated. The first Carrier Air Group Six served for just over two years during World War II, but drew on the history of the Enterprise Air Group established in 1938 and active in the early battles of the Pacific War, being disestablished after the first year of the conflict. During its time in USS Enterprise (CV-6), it was the Navy's only carrier-based air group to carry out three complete tours of duty during World War II.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">VA-12 (U.S. Navy)</span> Military unit

Attack Squadron TWELVE, also known as the "Flying Ubangis" or "Clinchers", was an attack squadron of the United States Navy active during the Cold War. From their home port at Naval Air Station Cecil Field in Florida, the squadron made more than thirty major overseas deployments aboard aircraft carriers, primarily flying A-4 Skyhawk and later the A-7E Corsair II, including two combat tours in the Vietnam War.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Carrier Air Wing Thirteen</span> Military unit

Carrier Air Wing Thirteen (CVW-13) was a carrier air wing of the United States Navy established for a short period at the end of the Cold War. There were three previous units which had been named Carrier Air Group Thirteen (CVG-13), dating as far back as 1942, though each of these units has a distinct lineage.

Carrier Air Group Seventeen (CVG-17) was a designation used by the United States Navy to identify two unrelated Carrier Air Groups; the first of which was established on 1 January 1943 as Carrier Air Group Seventeen and disestablished on 1 April 1992 as Carrier Air Wing Six; and the second of which was established as Carrier Air Group Eighty Two on 1 April 1944 and ultimately disestablished as Carrier Air Group Seventeen on 16 September 1968. Neither group shares a lineage with the current Carrier Air Wing Seventeen (CVW-17) as the first was the forerunner of CVW-6 and the second was disestablished eight years before CVW-17 was established.