VF-84

• Origins: The original VF-84 was established in July 1955 and was known as the "Jolly Rogers." The famous skull-and-crossbones insignia was adopted from the previous squadron VF-61. • Iconic Insignia: VF-84’s Jolly Roger insignia (skull over crossed bones) is among the most recognizable squadron symbols in US Navy history, often associated with pirate lore. • Aircraft Flown: Throughout its history, VF-84 operated several aircraft, including the FJ-3 Fury, F-8 Crusader, F-4 Phantom II, and most famously, the F-14 Tomcat. • Hollywood Fame: VF-84’s F-14 Tomcats appeared in the 1980 movie The Final Countdown, in which the USS Nimitz travels back in time to Pearl Harbor. • Carrier Deployments: The Jolly Rogers were regularly deployed aboard famous carriers such as the USS Roosevelt, USS Independence, and USS Nimitz. • Nickname: The squadron’s radio call sign was "Victory," which was fitting given their pirate theme and high combat standards. • Cold War Operations: VF-84 played a key role in the Cold War era, participating in NATO operations and intercepting Soviet aircraft in the Atlantic and Mediterranean. • Desert Storm: VF-84 participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, flying combat air patrol missions and escorting strike aircraft. • Disestablishment: VF-84 was disestablished on October 1, 1995. However, its traditions were carried on by VF-103, which adopted the Jolly Rogers name and insignia. • Legacy: The Jolly Rogers legacy continues to inspire military aviation fans worldwide, with many model kits, patches, and memorabilia bearing the famous black flag.