VF-114

• Official Designation: VF-114 was formally known as Fighter Squadron 114 "Aardvarks" of the United States Navy. • Established in 1945: The squadron was originally established on May 20, 1945, as VF-114, making it an active participant in post-World War II naval aviation. • Nickname "Aardvarks": VF-114 adopted the nickname "Aardvarks" in the 1960s, complete with a distinctive cartoon aardvark as their mascot. • Iconic Aircraft: Over its history, VF-114 flew several iconic fighters, including the F6F Hellcat, F4U Corsair, F9F Panther, F3H Demon, F-4 Phantom II, and ultimately the F-14 Tomcat. • Vietnam War Service: The squadron flew combat missions during the Vietnam War, primarily operating the F-4 Phantom II off the decks of USS Kitty Hawk and USS Enterprise. • Pioneers with the F-14 Tomcat: VF-114 was among the first squadrons to transition to the F-14 Tomcat in 1975, and participated in numerous deployments with this legendary fighter. • Hollywood Fame: Aircraft from VF-114 appeared in the film The Final Countdown (1980), which featured scenes shot aboard the USS Nimitz. • Operation Earnest Will: VF-114 deployed to the Persian Gulf during Operation Earnest Will in 1988, providing air cover for tanker convoys during the Iran-Iraq War. • Disestablishment: The squadron was disestablished on April 30, 1993, as part of post-Cold War force reductions, ending nearly 50 years of distinguished service. • Legacy and Symbolism: VF-114's "Aardvark" insignia and strong esprit de corps are fondly remembered by naval aviation enthusiasts, and former members maintain an active alumni community.