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vTF-77 Command

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  1. vTF-77 Command
    389th FS “Thunderbolts” In the spring of 1943, as the world burned in the fires of war, a new squadron rose from the fields of Richmond, Virginia. The 389th Fighter Squadron, christened the “Thunderbolts, ” took to the skies with the Republic P-47 Thunderbolt, a hulking fighter that roared with the promise of power. Born into the 366th Fighter Group, these young pilots—barely men, some still dreaming of home—trained relentlessly, their eyes set on the European Theater. By March 1944, under Colonel Meyer’s steady hand, they flew their first combat mission, a sweep over France’s Bayeux-St Aubin area. Eighteen P-47s thundered into the dawn, meeting little flak and no enemy fighters, but it was a baptism nonetheless. Through the war’s final years, the Thunderbolts carved a path across Europe, escorting bombers, strafing ground targets, and dueling Luftwaffe aces until victory came in May 1945. Their P-47s, scarred but proud, stood silent as the squadron inactivated in 1946, their duty done. The Cold War’s chill stirred the Thunderbolts awake in 1953, reborn as a fighter-bomber squadron at Alexandria Air Force Base, Louisiana. Now wielding North American F-86 Sabres, they trained for a new kind of war, one of jet speeds and nuclear stakes. Tragedy struck in 1955 when their commander, Lt. Col. John B. England, faced a fog-choked return from gunnery practice near Tripoli, Libya. With fuel starving his Sabre, England glimpsed the runway but saw his men’s barracks in his glide path. “This is not an acceptable risk, ” he radioed calmly, turning his jet into the woods near Toul-Rosières Air Base. His sacrifice spared his men, and Alexandria was renamed England Air Force Base in his honor, a name it carried until 1993. The Thunderbolts’ saga continued to unfold, their mission ever-changing. In the 1960s, they traded Sabres for McDonnell F-4 Phantoms and roared into the Vietnam War. From 1966 to 1971, they flew combat missions over Southeast Asia, bombing enemy strongholds and dodging surface-to-air missiles in the sweltering jungles. The Phantoms, painted with the squadron’s lightning-streaked insignia, became a feared sight in the skies. Back home, the 1970s saw them shift to training, guiding aircrews on the General Dynamics F-111 Aardvark from 1979 to 1991, a low-flying beast built for deep strikes. But the Thunderbolts’ restless spirit demanded more. In 1991, at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, the squadron embraced the General Dynamics F-16C Viper, mastering the Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) role with AGM-88 HARM missiles. Their Block 52 Vipers, equipped with HARM Targeting Systems, hunted enemy radar, while LANTIRN pods and night vision goggles turned night into day for precision strikes. From 2001 to 2002, a Viper adorned with New York firefighter nose-art flew over Afghanistan, honoring the fallen of 9/11 during Operation Enduring Freedom. But change loomed again. The 2005 Base Realignment and Closure axed the F-16s, and by 2006, the Thunderbolts welcomed the McDonnell Douglas F-15E Strike Eagle, a twin-seat warhorse for close air support and deep strikes. Now at Mountain Home, the Thunderbolts, with 71 personnel and 21 Strike Eagles, are aorce of precision and power. They train in exercises like Red Flag and Combat Hammer, honing skills for global missions. In 2021, they thundered down Nellis runways for Green Flag West, weaving air support with Army ground forces. By 2022, under Lt. Col. Beacher “Magnus” Webb, they deployed to Southwest Asia, flying close air support and counter-air missions for U.S. Central Command, their F-15Es a shield against regional threats. President Biden later hailed them as “among the greatest mankind has ever known, ” a nod to their relentless spirit. The squadron’s culture is as vibrant as its history. New pilots, dubbed “Sparkies, ” earn the name for their fresh-faced zeal, a nod to a “baby” Thunderbolt. They’re the squadron’s lifeblood, tasked with morale-boosting duties like cooking popcorn, their innocence a counterpoint to war’s grim lessons. Once seasoned by combat or time, they shed the title, passing it to the next generation. Through it all, the Thunderbolts carry their legacy—P-47s over Normandy, Phantoms in Vietnam, Strike Eagles in the desert—a story of sacrifice, adaptability, and unyielding resolve, etched in the skies they still rule. Come and fly with 389th - Website: https://www.vtf77.com/?utm_source=discord&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=DCSF
  2. vTF-77 Command
    389th FS “Thunderbolts” In the spring of 1943, as the world burned in the fires of war, a new squadron rose from the fields of Richmond, Virginia. The 389th Fighter Squadron, christened the “Thunderbolts, ” took to the skies with the Republic P-47 Thunderbolt, a hulking fighter that roared with the promise of power. Born into the 366th Fighter Group, these young pilots—barely men, some still dreaming of home—trained relentlessly, their eyes set on the European Theater. By March 1944, under Colonel Meyer’s steady hand, they flew their first combat mission, a sweep over France’s Bayeux-St Aubin area. Eighteen P-47s thundered into the dawn, meeting little flak and no enemy fighters, but it was a baptism nonetheless. Through the war’s final years, the Thunderbolts carved a path across Europe, escorting bombers, strafing ground targets, and dueling Luftwaffe aces until victory came in May 1945. Their P-47s, scarred but proud, stood silent as the squadron inactivated in 1946, their duty done. The Cold War’s chill stirred the Thunderbolts awake in 1953, reborn as a fighter-bomber squadron at Alexandria Air Force Base, Louisiana. Now wielding North American F-86 Sabres, they trained for a new kind of war, one of jet speeds and nuclear stakes. Tragedy struck in 1955 when their commander, Lt. Col. John B. England, faced a fog-choked return from gunnery practice near Tripoli, Libya. With fuel starving his Sabre, England glimpsed the runway but saw his men’s barracks in his glide path. “This is not an acceptable risk, ” he radioed calmly, turning his jet into the woods near Toul-Rosières Air Base. His sacrifice spared his men, and Alexandria was renamed England Air Force Base in his honor, a name it carried until 1993. The Thunderbolts’ saga continued to unfold, their mission ever-changing. In the 1960s, they traded Sabres for McDonnell F-4 Phantoms and roared into the Vietnam War. From 1966 to 1971, they flew combat missions over Southeast Asia, bombing enemy strongholds and dodging surface-to-air missiles in the sweltering jungles. The Phantoms, painted with the squadron’s lightning-streaked insignia, became a feared sight in the skies. Back home, the 1970s saw them shift to training, guiding aircrews on the General Dynamics F-111 Aardvark from 1979 to 1991, a low-flying beast built for deep strikes. But the Thunderbolts’ restless spirit demanded more. In 1991, at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, the squadron embraced the General Dynamics F-16C Viper, mastering the Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) role with AGM-88 HARM missiles. Their Block 52 Vipers, equipped with HARM Targeting Systems, hunted enemy radar, while LANTIRN pods and night vision goggles turned night into day for precision strikes. From 2001 to 2002, a Viper adorned with New York firefighter nose-art flew over Afghanistan, honoring the fallen of 9/11 during Operation Enduring Freedom. But change loomed again. The 2005 Base Realignment and Closure axed the F-16s, and by 2006, the Thunderbolts welcomed the McDonnell Douglas F-15E Strike Eagle, a twin-seat warhorse for close air support and deep strikes. Now at Mountain Home, the Thunderbolts, with 71 personnel and 21 Strike Eagles, are aorce of precision and power. They train in exercises like Red Flag and Combat Hammer, honing skills for global missions. In 2021, they thundered down Nellis runways for Green Flag West, weaving air support with Army ground forces. By 2022, under Lt. Col. Beacher “Magnus” Webb, they deployed to Southwest Asia, flying close air support and counter-air missions for U.S. Central Command, their F-15Es a shield against regional threats. President Biden later hailed them as “among the greatest mankind has ever known, ” a nod to their relentless spirit. The squadron’s culture is as vibrant as its history. New pilots, dubbed “Sparkies, ” earn the name for their fresh-faced zeal, a nod to a “baby” Thunderbolt. They’re the squadron’s lifeblood, tasked with morale-boosting duties like cooking popcorn, their innocence a counterpoint to war’s grim lessons. Once seasoned by combat or time, they shed the title, passing it to the next generation. Through it all, the Thunderbolts carry their legacy—P-47s over Normandy, Phantoms in Vietnam, Strike Eagles in the desert—a story of sacrifice, adaptability, and unyielding resolve, etched in the skies they still rule. Come and fly with 389th - Website: https://www.vtf77.com/?utm_source=discord&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=DCSF
  3. vTF-77 Command
    727th EACS “Kingpins” In the autumn of 1950, as the Cold War’s chill settled over the world, a new unit emerged at Pope Air Force Base, North Carolina. The 727th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron, later known as the “Kingpins,” was born to watch the skies and guide the fight. Equipped with radar and radios, its Airmen scanned for threats, their screens glowing in the dim control rooms. Through the 1950s, they stood sentinel, part of the 507th Tactical Control Group, ensuring no enemy slipped through America’s defenses. By 1964, redesignated as the 727th Tactical Control Squadron, they embraced mobile radar systems, ready to deploy wherever the Air Force called. The Vietnam War tested their resolve. In the late 1960s, the Kingpins, now under the 602nd Tactical Air Control Group, sent detachments to Southeast Asia. From forward bases, they directed air strikes and coordinated fighters, their voices crackling over radios to guide pilots through monsoon-soaked skies. Back home, the 1970s brought new challenges. Redesignated the 727th Tactical Control Squadron (Test) in 1979, they joined the USAF Tactical Air Warfare Center, pioneering advanced command-and-control systems. By 1991, as the 727th Air Control Squadron (Test), they refined tactics for a digital battlefield, but peace’s arrival saw them inactivated in 1995. The Global War on Terrorism rekindled their fire. In 2005, reborn as the 727th Expeditionary Air Control Squadron, a provisional unit under Air Combat Command, they became “Kingpin” for good, assigned to the 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing. Deployed to Balad Air Base, Iraq, in 2005, they orchestrated air operations for Operation Iraqi Freedom, their radars tracking friend and foe alike. By 2011, at Al Dhafra Air Base, UAE, they supported Operation New Dawn’s end, pivoting to Arabian Gulf air defense. Their mission grew, covering Operations Inherent Resolve and Freedom’s Sentinel, directing strikes against ISIS in Iraq and Syria. In 2021, the Kingpins made history at Al Dhafra. For Women’s History Month, an all-female team—dubbed “Queenpin”—ran a three-hour mission shift, from radar operators to intel analysts, led by Col. Kristen Thompson. Airmen from the U.S., Australia, Canada, and the UK united, proving women’s prowess in command and control. That April, the squadron relocated to Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, after a decade in the UAE, continuing to provide real-time air battle management. By 2023, under Lt. Col. Daniel Longstreet, they stood ready, their legacy celebrated in patches and nose art. The Kingpins’ story spans decades, from Cold War radar vans to modern digital networks. They’ve earned a Meritorious Unit Award and multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards, their emblem—a crowned chess piece—approved in 1981, symbolizing strategic mastery. As the 728th Battle Management Control Squadron prepares to take their mantle at Robins AFB, the 727th EACS remains a linchpin, weaving airpower into victory, their eyes ever on the skies. Come and fly with live controllers - Website: https://www.vtf77.com/?utm_source=discord&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=DCSF
  4. vTF-77 Command
    727th EACS “Kingpins” In the autumn of 1950, as the Cold War’s chill settled over the world, a new unit emerged at Pope Air Force Base, North Carolina. The 727th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron, later known as the “Kingpins,” was born to watch the skies and guide the fight. Equipped with radar and radios, its Airmen scanned for threats, their screens glowing in the dim control rooms. Through the 1950s, they stood sentinel, part of the 507th Tactical Control Group, ensuring no enemy slipped through America’s defenses. By 1964, redesignated as the 727th Tactical Control Squadron, they embraced mobile radar systems, ready to deploy wherever the Air Force called. The Vietnam War tested their resolve. In the late 1960s, the Kingpins, now under the 602nd Tactical Air Control Group, sent detachments to Southeast Asia. From forward bases, they directed air strikes and coordinated fighters, their voices crackling over radios to guide pilots through monsoon-soaked skies. Back home, the 1970s brought new challenges. Redesignated the 727th Tactical Control Squadron (Test) in 1979, they joined the USAF Tactical Air Warfare Center, pioneering advanced command-and-control systems. By 1991, as the 727th Air Control Squadron (Test), they refined tactics for a digital battlefield, but peace’s arrival saw them inactivated in 1995. The Global War on Terrorism rekindled their fire. In 2005, reborn as the 727th Expeditionary Air Control Squadron, a provisional unit under Air Combat Command, they became “Kingpin” for good, assigned to the 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing. Deployed to Balad Air Base, Iraq, in 2005, they orchestrated air operations for Operation Iraqi Freedom, their radars tracking friend and foe alike. By 2011, at Al Dhafra Air Base, UAE, they supported Operation New Dawn’s end, pivoting to Arabian Gulf air defense. Their mission grew, covering Operations Inherent Resolve and Freedom’s Sentinel, directing strikes against ISIS in Iraq and Syria. In 2021, the Kingpins made history at Al Dhafra. For Women’s History Month, an all-female team—dubbed “Queenpin”—ran a three-hour mission shift, from radar operators to intel analysts, led by Col. Kristen Thompson. Airmen from the U.S., Australia, Canada, and the UK united, proving women’s prowess in command and control. That April, the squadron relocated to Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, after a decade in the UAE, continuing to provide real-time air battle management. By 2023, under Lt. Col. Daniel Longstreet, they stood ready, their legacy celebrated in patches and nose art. The Kingpins’ story spans decades, from Cold War radar vans to modern digital networks. They’ve earned a Meritorious Unit Award and multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards, their emblem—a crowned chess piece—approved in 1981, symbolizing strategic mastery. As the 728th Battle Management Control Squadron prepares to take their mantle at Robins AFB, the 727th EACS remains a linchpin, weaving airpower into victory, their eyes ever on the skies. Come and fly with live controllers - Website: https://www.vtf77.com/?utm_source=discord&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=DCSF
  5. vTF-77 Command
    727th EACS “Kingpins” In the autumn of 1950, as the Cold War’s chill settled over the world, a new unit emerged at Pope Air Force Base, North Carolina. The 727th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron, later known as the “Kingpins,” was born to watch the skies and guide the fight. Equipped with radar and radios, its Airmen scanned for threats, their screens glowing in the dim control rooms. Through the 1950s, they stood sentinel, part of the 507th Tactical Control Group, ensuring no enemy slipped through America’s defenses. By 1964, redesignated as the 727th Tactical Control Squadron, they embraced mobile radar systems, ready to deploy wherever the Air Force called. The Vietnam War tested their resolve. In the late 1960s, the Kingpins, now under the 602nd Tactical Air Control Group, sent detachments to Southeast Asia. From forward bases, they directed air strikes and coordinated fighters, their voices crackling over radios to guide pilots through monsoon-soaked skies. Back home, the 1970s brought new challenges. Redesignated the 727th Tactical Control Squadron (Test) in 1979, they joined the USAF Tactical Air Warfare Center, pioneering advanced command-and-control systems. By 1991, as the 727th Air Control Squadron (Test), they refined tactics for a digital battlefield, but peace’s arrival saw them inactivated in 1995. The Global War on Terrorism rekindled their fire. In 2005, reborn as the 727th Expeditionary Air Control Squadron, a provisional unit under Air Combat Command, they became “Kingpin” for good, assigned to the 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing. Deployed to Balad Air Base, Iraq, in 2005, they orchestrated air operations for Operation Iraqi Freedom, their radars tracking friend and foe alike. By 2011, at Al Dhafra Air Base, UAE, they supported Operation New Dawn’s end, pivoting to Arabian Gulf air defense. Their mission grew, covering Operations Inherent Resolve and Freedom’s Sentinel, directing strikes against ISIS in Iraq and Syria. In 2021, the Kingpins made history at Al Dhafra. For Women’s History Month, an all-female team—dubbed “Queenpin”—ran a three-hour mission shift, from radar operators to intel analysts, led by Col. Kristen Thompson. Airmen from the U.S., Australia, Canada, and the UK united, proving women’s prowess in command and control. That April, the squadron relocated to Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, after a decade in the UAE, continuing to provide real-time air battle management. By 2023, under Lt. Col. Daniel Longstreet, they stood ready, their legacy celebrated in patches and nose art. The Kingpins’ story spans decades, from Cold War radar vans to modern digital networks. They’ve earned a Meritorious Unit Award and multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards, their emblem—a crowned chess piece—approved in 1981, symbolizing strategic mastery. As the 728th Battle Management Control Squadron prepares to take their mantle at Robins AFB, the 727th EACS remains a linchpin, weaving airpower into victory, their eyes ever on the skies. Come and fly with live controllers - Website: https://www.vtf77.com/?utm_source=discord&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=DCSF
  6. vTF-77 Command
    727th EACS “Kingpins” In the autumn of 1950, as the Cold War’s chill settled over the world, a new unit emerged at Pope Air Force Base, North Carolina. The 727th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron, later known as the “Kingpins,” was born to watch the skies and guide the fight. Equipped with radar and radios, its Airmen scanned for threats, their screens glowing in the dim control rooms. Through the 1950s, they stood sentinel, part of the 507th Tactical Control Group, ensuring no enemy slipped through America’s defenses. By 1964, redesignated as the 727th Tactical Control Squadron, they embraced mobile radar systems, ready to deploy wherever the Air Force called. The Vietnam War tested their resolve. In the late 1960s, the Kingpins, now under the 602nd Tactical Air Control Group, sent detachments to Southeast Asia. From forward bases, they directed air strikes and coordinated fighters, their voices crackling over radios to guide pilots through monsoon-soaked skies. Back home, the 1970s brought new challenges. Redesignated the 727th Tactical Control Squadron (Test) in 1979, they joined the USAF Tactical Air Warfare Center, pioneering advanced command-and-control systems. By 1991, as the 727th Air Control Squadron (Test), they refined tactics for a digital battlefield, but peace’s arrival saw them inactivated in 1995. The Global War on Terrorism rekindled their fire. In 2005, reborn as the 727th Expeditionary Air Control Squadron, a provisional unit under Air Combat Command, they became “Kingpin” for good, assigned to the 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing. Deployed to Balad Air Base, Iraq, in 2005, they orchestrated air operations for Operation Iraqi Freedom, their radars tracking friend and foe alike. By 2011, at Al Dhafra Air Base, UAE, they supported Operation New Dawn’s end, pivoting to Arabian Gulf air defense. Their mission grew, covering Operations Inherent Resolve and Freedom’s Sentinel, directing strikes against ISIS in Iraq and Syria. In 2021, the Kingpins made history at Al Dhafra. For Women’s History Month, an all-female team—dubbed “Queenpin”—ran a three-hour mission shift, from radar operators to intel analysts, led by Col. Kristen Thompson. Airmen from the U.S., Australia, Canada, and the UK united, proving women’s prowess in command and control. That April, the squadron relocated to Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, after a decade in the UAE, continuing to provide real-time air battle management. By 2023, under Lt. Col. Daniel Longstreet, they stood ready, their legacy celebrated in patches and nose art. The Kingpins’ story spans decades, from Cold War radar vans to modern digital networks. They’ve earned a Meritorious Unit Award and multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards, their emblem—a crowned chess piece—approved in 1981, symbolizing strategic mastery. As the 728th Battle Management Control Squadron prepares to take their mantle at Robins AFB, the 727th EACS remains a linchpin, weaving airpower into victory, their eyes ever on the skies. Come and fly with live controllers - Website: https://www.vtf77.com/?utm_source=discord&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=DCSF
  7. vTF-77 Command
    AIM-54 Phoenix In the frost of the Cold War, as Soviet bombers loomed over the seas, the U.S. Navy sought a weapon to safeguard its carriers. At Hughes Aircraft, engineers crafted the AIM-54 Phoenix, a missile born to dominate the skies. Paired with the F-14 Tomcat, this 1,000-pound titan, stretching 13 feet, could strike six targets over 100 miles away, soaring at Mach 5 with an active radar seeker that hunted on its own. First launched in 1966, it joined the fleet by 1974, a symbol of American ingenuity. The Phoenix’s AWG-9 radar, synced with the Tomcat, could track a swarm of enemies, making it a fleet’s fiery shield. Pilots, calling “Fox Three, ” unleashed it in training, awed by its reach. Iran’s F-14s, gifted before the 1979 revolution, reportedly wielded it in the Iran-Iraq War, claiming up to 60 kills, though proof remained elusive. For the U.S., the Phoenix stayed silent in conflicts like the 1991 Gulf War, its million-dollar cost and strict rules keeping it leashed. By 2004, as the F-14 retired, the Phoenix was shelved, outshined by the versatile AIM-120 AMRAAM. In 2007, a demilitarized Phoenix roared again, testing hypersonic flight for NASA at Mach 5. Its legacy endures in modern missiles, a testament to its vision. The AIM-54, named for rebirth, never burned bright in battle but left a trail of innovation, a guardian whose shadow still lingers in the skies. Come and shoot the Phoenix! Our Discord is https://discord.gg/E8WNwgxhkN
  8. vTF-77 Command
    VF-143, the "Pukin' Dogs," was a U.S. Navy fighter squadron with a significant F-14 presence in the Tomcat era. Cold War Operations: Deployed on carriers like USS America (CV-66) and USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69), VF-143 patrolled tense regions (e.g., Mediterranean, Persian Gulf). The squadron intercepted Soviet aircraft, like Tu-95. Bear bombers, during NATO exercises and Cold War standoffs. Gulf War (1991): During Operation Desert Storm, VF-143 was part of Carrier Air Wing Seven (CVW-7) on USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, flew F-14 combat air patrols and escort missions, protecting coalition forces over Iraq. Nickname and Legacy: The "Pukin' Dogs" nickname originated at a squadron family gathering when a pilot’s wife saw the griffin insignia and remarked, "It looks like a pukin' dog!" The pilots loved it and adopted it on the spot, making it iconic on the F-14’s tail. But perhaps, greatest in their legacy: the Pukin' Dogs stand as one of 3 squadrons to graduate from the very first TOPGUN class. And the first squadron to score an enemy aircraft kill from a TOPGUN graduate! Disestablishment (1994): VF-143 was disestablished on April 1, 1994, due to post-Cold War cuts. Its F-14 legacy continued with VFA-143, which transitioned to F/A-18 Hornets.
  9. vTF-77 Command
    VF-143, the "Pukin' Dogs," was a U.S. Navy fighter squadron with a significant F-14 presence in the Tomcat era. Cold War Operations: Deployed on carriers like USS America (CV-66) and USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69), VF-143 patrolled tense regions (e.g., Mediterranean, Persian Gulf). The squadron intercepted Soviet aircraft, like Tu-95 Bear bombers, during NATO exercises and Cold War standoffs. Gulf War (1991): During Operation Desert Storm, VF-143 was part of Carrier Air Wing Seven (CVW-7) on USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, flew F-14 combat air patrols and escort missions, protecting coalition forces over Iraq. Nickname and Legacy: The "Pukin' Dogs" nickname originated at a squadron family gathering when a pilot’s wife saw the griffin insignia and remarked, "It looks like a pukin' dog!" The pilots loved it and adopted it on the spot, making it iconic on the F-14’s tail. But perhaps, greatest in their legacy: the Pukin' Dogs stand as one of 3 squadrons to graduate from the very first TOPGUN class. And the first squadron to score an enemy aircraft kill from a TOPGUN graduate! Disestablishment (1994): VF-143 was disestablished on April 1, 1994, due to post-Cold War cuts. Its F-14 legacy continued with VFA-143, which transitioned to F/A-18 Hornets.
  10. vTF-77 Command
    VF-143, the "Pukin' Dogs," was a U.S. Navy fighter squadron with a significant F-14 presence in the Tomcat era. Cold War Operations: Deployed on carriers like USS America (CV-66) and USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69), VF-143 patrolled tense regions (e.g., Mediterranean, Persian Gulf). The squadron intercepted Soviet aircraft, like Tu-95 Bear bombers, during NATO exercises and Cold War standoffs. Gulf War (1991): During Operation Desert Storm, VF-143 was part of Carrier Air Wing Seven (CVW-7) on USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, flew F-14 combat air patrols and escort missions, protecting coalition forces over Iraq. Nickname and Legacy: The "Pukin' Dogs" nickname originated at a squadron family gathering when a pilot’s wife saw the griffin insignia and remarked, "It looks like a pukin' dog!" The pilots loved it and adopted it on the spot, making it iconic on the F-14’s tail. But perhaps, greatest in their legacy: the Pukin' Dogs stand as one of 3 squadrons to graduate from the very first TOPGUN class. And the first squadron to score an enemy aircraft kill from a TOPGUN graduate! Disestablishment (1994): VF-143 was disestablished on April 1, 1994, due to post-Cold War cuts. Its F-14 legacy continued with VFA-143, which transitioned to F/A-18 Hornets.
  11. vTF-77 Command
    VF-143, the "Pukin' Dogs," was a U.S. Navy fighter squadron with a significant F-14 presence in the Tomcat era. Cold War Operations: Deployed on carriers like USS America (CV-66) and USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69), VF-143 patrolled tense regions (e.g., Mediterranean, Persian Gulf). The squadron intercepted Soviet aircraft, like Tu-95. Bear bombers, during NATO exercises and Cold War standoffs. Gulf War (1991): During Operation Desert Storm, VF-143 was part of Carrier Air Wing Seven (CVW-7) on USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, flew F-14 combat air patrols and escort missions, protecting coalition forces over Iraq. Nickname and Legacy: The "Pukin' Dogs" nickname originated at a squadron family gathering when a pilot’s wife saw the griffin insignia and remarked, "It looks like a pukin' dog!" The pilots loved it and adopted it on the spot, making it iconic on the F-14’s tail. But perhaps, greatest in their legacy: the Pukin' Dogs stand as one of 3 squadrons to graduate from the very first TOPGUN class. And the first squadron to score an enemy aircraft kill from a TOPGUN graduate! Disestablishment (1994): VF-143 was disestablished on April 1, 1994, due to post-Cold War cuts. Its F-14 legacy continued with VFA-143, which transitioned to F/A-18 Hornets.
  12. vTF-77 Command
    Working Around the Carrier with the Warhawks (VFA-97) VFA-97, a Navy Strike Fighter Squadron, operates as part of a Carrier Air Wing and is integral to carrier-based operations. Their work aboard aircraft carriers involves a range of tasks, from combat missions to daily operations.
  13. vTF-77 Command
    Working Around the Carrier with the Warhawks (VFA-97) VFA-97, a Navy Strike Fighter Squadron, operates as part of a Carrier Air Wing and is integral to carrier-based operations. Their work aboard aircraft carriers involves a range of tasks, from combat missions to daily operations.
  14. vTF-77 Command
  15. vTF-77 Command
    Virtual Task Force 77 is Calling All Pilots! Recruitment is NOW OPEN, and we’re hunting for skilled aviators to join our ranks in the ultimate DCS mil-sim experience! Who We Are: vTF-77 is a high-octane, West Coast-based DCS task force specializing in fighter, attack, and expeditionary operations. We deliver heart-pounding, realistic missions while keeping the vibe fun and camaraderie tight. Whether you’re drawn to the precision of Air Force, the swagger of Naval aviation, or the grit of Marine ops, our diverse squadrons offer a home for every pilot and controller. Our command teams bring a wealth of real-world and virtual expertise, ensuring you’ll master cutting-edge tactics and soar to new heights. What We Do: Train Like Pros: Every Tuesday and Thursday at 20:00 PST on our dedicated servers. Epic Missions & Campaigns: Regularly deploy across our diverse airframes for immersive, story-driven operations. Off-Night Shenanigans: Bond with the crew, share laughs, and embrace the dad-joke glory. We’re Recruiting for: F/A-18C Pilots F-14B Pilots/RIOs F-15E Pilots/WSOs F-16C Pilots AV-8B Pilots F-4 Pilots/RIOs Helo Aircrews (AH-64D, Mi-24, OH-58, Ka-50) Mission & Campaign Designers ATC/AIC Controllers JTAC/FAC(A) What You Bring: A mature, respectful attitude with a love for good vibes and epic banter. A solid HOTAS setup. Willingness to learn (we’ll train you on Discord and SRS if needed). Commitment to attend at least 50% of training nights monthly. Reliable and coachable with a hunger to dominate the skies. Ownership (or ability to acquire) Syria, Persian Gulf, Sinai maps (NTTR recommended) and the Super Carriermodule for naval ops. What You Get: World-Class Training: Learn from seasoned instructors with robust programs. Diverse Squadrons: Choose from seven elite squadrons, one aggressor JTAF unit, or our ATC/AIC crew. Immersive Missions: Fly on dedicated servers with meticulously crafted campaigns. Epic Community: Join a tight-knit, inclusive crew that’s all about the thrill and the laughs. Ready to take flight with vTF-77? Check out the links below to apply and join the action! Let’s rule the skies together! Our Discord is https://discord.gg/E8WNwgxhkN The virtual Task Force Website: https://www.vtf77.com/
  16. vTF-77 Command
  17. vTF-77 Command
    vTF-77 has available slots for aspiring and experienced navel aviators looking for a comfortable, structured, and dedicated experience within a Carrier Air Wing. Slots available: -F-14B Tomcat RIO -F-14B Tomcat Pilot -F-18C Hornet Pilot Come see if you have what it takes to be a part of this great family.
  18. vTF-77 Command
    vTF-77 has available slots for aspiring and experienced navel aviators looking for a comfortable, structured, and dedicated experience within a Carrier Air Wing. Slots available: -F-14B Tomcat RIO -F-14B Tomcat Pilot -F-18C Hornet Pilot Come see if you have what it takes to be a part of this great family.
  19. vTF-77 Command
    vTF-77 has available slots for aspiring and experienced navel aviators looking for a comfortable, structured, and dedicated experience within a Carrier Air Wing. Slots available: -F-14B Tomcat RIO -F-14B Tomcat Pilot -F-18C Hornet Pilot Come see if you have what it takes to be a part of this great family.
  20. vTF-77 Command
    Virtual Task Force 77 is Calling All Pilots! Recruitment is NOW OPEN, and we’re hunting for skilled aviators to join our ranks in the ultimate DCS mil-sim experience! Who We Are: vTF-77 is a high-octane, West Coast-based DCS task force specializing in fighter, attack, and expeditionary operations. We deliver heart-pounding, realistic missions while keeping the vibe fun and camaraderie tight. Whether you’re drawn to the precision of Air Force, the swagger of Naval aviation, or the grit of Marine ops, our diverse squadrons offer a home for every pilot and controller. Our command teams bring a wealth of real-world and virtual expertise, ensuring you’ll master cutting-edge tactics and soar to new heights. What We Do: Train Like Pros: Every Tuesday and Thursday at 20:00 PST on our dedicated servers. Epic Missions & Campaigns: Regularly deploy across our diverse airframes for immersive, story-driven operations. Off-Night Shenanigans: Bond with the crew, share laughs, and embrace the dad-joke glory. We’re Recruiting for: F/A-18C Pilots F-14B Pilots/RIOs F-15E Pilots/WSOs F-16C Pilots AV-8B Pilots F-4 Pilots/RIOs Helo Aircrews (AH-64D, Mi-24, OH-58, Ka-50) Mission & Campaign Designers ATC/AIC Controllers JTAC/FAC(A) What You Bring: A mature, respectful attitude with a love for good vibes and epic banter. A solid HOTAS setup. Willingness to learn (we’ll train you on Discord and SRS if needed). Commitment to attend at least 50% of training nights monthly. Reliable and coachable with a hunger to dominate the skies. Ownership (or ability to acquire) Syria, Persian Gulf, Sinai maps (NTTR recommended) and the Super Carriermodule for naval ops. What You Get: World-Class Training: Learn from seasoned instructors with robust programs. Diverse Squadrons: Choose from seven elite squadrons, one aggressor JTAF unit, or our ATC/AIC crew. Immersive Missions: Fly on dedicated servers with meticulously crafted campaigns. Epic Community: Join a tight-knit, inclusive crew that’s all about the thrill and the laughs. Ready to take flight with vTF-77? Check out the links below to apply and join the action! Let’s rule the skies together! Our Discord is https://discord.gg/E8WNwgxhkN The virtual Task Force Website: https://www.vtf77.com/
  21. vTF-77 Command
  22. vTF-77 Command
  23. vTF-77 Command
    Virtual Task Force 77 is Calling All Pilots! Recruitment is NOW OPEN, and we’re hunting for skilled aviators to join our ranks in the ultimate DCS mil-sim experience! Who We Are: vTF-77 is a high-octane, West Coast-based DCS task force specializing in fighter, attack, and expeditionary operations. We deliver heart-pounding, realistic missions while keeping the vibe fun and camaraderie tight. Whether you’re drawn to the precision of Air Force, the swagger of Naval aviation, or the grit of Marine ops, our diverse squadrons offer a home for every pilot and controller. Our command teams bring a wealth of real-world and virtual expertise, ensuring you’ll master cutting-edge tactics and soar to new heights. What We Do: Train Like Pros: Every Tuesday and Thursday at 20:00 PST on our dedicated servers. Epic Missions & Campaigns: Regularly deploy across our diverse airframes for immersive, story-driven operations. Off-Night Shenanigans: Bond with the crew, share laughs, and embrace the dad-joke glory. We’re Recruiting for: F/A-18C Pilots F-14B Pilots/RIOs F-15E Pilots/WSOs F-16C Pilots AV-8B Pilots F-4 Pilots/RIOs Helo Aircrews (AH-64D, Mi-24, OH-58, Ka-50) Mission & Campaign Designers ATC/AIC Controllers JTAC/FAC(A) What You Bring: A mature, respectful attitude with a love for good vibes and epic banter. A solid HOTAS setup. Willingness to learn (we’ll train you on Discord and SRS if needed). Commitment to attend at least 50% of training nights monthly. Reliable and coachable with a hunger to dominate the skies. Ownership (or ability to acquire) Syria, Persian Gulf, Sinai maps (NTTR recommended) and the Super Carriermodule for naval ops. What You Get: World-Class Training: Learn from seasoned instructors with robust programs. Diverse Squadrons: Choose from seven elite squadrons, one aggressor JTAF unit, or our ATC/AIC crew. Immersive Missions: Fly on dedicated servers with meticulously crafted campaigns. Epic Community: Join a tight-knit, inclusive crew that’s all about the thrill and the laughs. Ready to take flight with vTF-77? Check out the links below to apply and join the action! Let’s rule the skies together! Our Discord is https://discord.gg/E8WNwgxhkN The virtual Task Force Website: https://www.vtf77.com/
  24. vTF-77 Command
    The virtual Task Force 77 recruitment is now OPEN once again for the new year and looking for skilled pilots. Who are we: vTF-77 is a DCS fighter, attack, and expeditionary task force that is dedicated to providing a realistic experience within the 'mil sim' environment, while providing immersive and tactical operations for our pilots. That said, we are also about having fun in that experience. As a task force we have a great love for Air Force, Naval, and marine aviation and have squadrons available for all seeking the unique cultures those squadrons provide. These squadrons and its command team have a lot of experience in a wide range of tactics and procedures in both the virtual and real world. We are based out of the west coast of North America and conduct trainings every Tuesday and Thursday at 20:00 PST on our our own dedicated servers. We also hold regular missions and campaigns throughout the year involving our diverse airframes, as well as off night sessions dedicated to building team morale and just have fun. We are current recruiting for the current air frames/positions: F/A-18C F-14B F-14B RIOs F-16C AV-8B F-15E AH-64D Mission & campaign designers JTAC/FAC(A) The task forces basic requirements/expectations are: Mature and respectful behavior and attitude. Ability to verbally communicate in English. Owns a capable HOTAS. Can use Discord and SRS. Functional knowledge in one of the above listed airframes. We are able and willing to train new members, but we cannot start from zero. Willingness to be coachable and learn with a willingness to improve as a pilots. Able to attend at least 50% of training nights per month. Reliable and consistent. Owns or is able to acquire the required maps Syria, Persian Gulf, Sinai as we deploy to these locations regularly. As well as the recommended NTTR map. For navel ops, owns the Super Carrier module. What we offer: Experienced instructors and robust training. Variety of seven SQNs, one aggressor JTAF Squadron, and ATC/AIC controller unit. Dedicated training servers and immersive missions and campaigns. An inclusive and friendly atmosphere. If the above interests you, than vTF-77 may be the place for you. Please make your way to the links below to check us out and apply. Our Discord is https://discord.gg/E8WNwgxhkN The virtual Task Force Website: https://www.vtf77.com/
  25. vTF-77 Command
    The virtual Task Force 77 recruitment is now open once again and looking for skilled pilots. Who are we: vTF-77 is a DCS fighter, attack, and expeditionary task force, dedicated to providing a realistic experience within the 'mil sim' environment, while providing immersive and tactical operations for our pilots. That said, we are also about having fun in that experience. As a task force we have a great love for Air Force, Naval, and marine aviation and have squadrons available for all seeking the unique cultures those squadrons provide. These squadrons and its command team have a lot of experience in a wide range of tactics and procedures in both the virtual and real world. We are based out of the west coast of North America and conduct trainings every Tuesday and Thursday at 20:00 PST on our our own dedicated servers. We also hold regular missions and campaigns throughout the year involving our diverse airframes, as well as off night sessions dedicated to building team morale and just have fun. We are current recruiting for the current air frames/positions: F/A-18C pilots F-14A/B pilots/RIO's F-15E Pilots/WSO's F-16C AV-8B F-4 Pilots/Rios AH-64D, MI-24, OH-58, KA-50 Air Crews Mission & campaign designers Additional ATC/AIC and CATCC Controllers JTAC The task forces basic requirements/expectations are: Mature and respectful behavior and attitude. Endurance of good nature humor, dad-jokes, and general Phuq-ery!! Owns a capable HOTAS. Can use Discord and SRS preferred (but not required, we can teach you). We are able and willing to train new members. Willingness to be coachable and learn with a willingness to improve as a pilots. Able to attend at least 50% of training nights per month. Reliable and consistent. Owns or is able to acquire the required maps Syria, Persian Gulf, Sinai as we deploy to these locations regularly. As well as the recommended NTTR map. For Naval ops, owns the Super Carrier module. What we offer: Experienced instructors and robust training. Variety of seven SQNs, one aggressor JTAF Squadron, and ATC/AIC controller unit. Dedicated training servers with immersive and hand-crafted missions and campaigns. An inclusive and friendly atmosphere. If the above interests you, than vTF-77 may be the place for you. Please make your way to the links below to check us out and apply. Our Discord is https://discord.gg/E8WNwgxhkN The virtual Task Force Website: https://www.vtf77.com/
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