Attack Squadron 16 (ATKRON 16)

VA-16

 

va-16 attack squadron crest insignia patch badge atkron us navy

va-16 attack squadron black knights musketeers us navy ad-6 skyraider

 

STATUS:

established as VA-16 on June 1, 1955
VA-16 disestablished on March 1, 1958

AIRCRAFT:

Douglas AD-6 Skyraider (1955-58)

 

 

DEPLOYMENTS:

January 1957 - July 1957 with ATG-182 aboard USS Lake Champlain (CVA 39)

 

images

 

va-16 attack squadron atkron us navy ad-6 skyraider atg-182 uss lake champlain cva 39

AD-6 Skyraider (VA-16 / ATG-182) embarked on USS Lake Champlain (CVA 39) - 1957

 

 

history

Jun 1955:

The squadron was established with a mission of all-weather attack, including special (nuclear) weapons delivery.

Apr 1957:

VA-16, while deployed to the Mediterranean aboard Lake Champlain (CVA 39), operated off the coast of Lebanon during the Jordanian crisis.


18 Dec 1957:

VA-16 conducted the first air-to-air refueling by an operational AD Skyraider squadron using the “buddy store.” The refueling took place over NAS Oceana and the squadron’s AD-6 refueled an F9F-8.


9 Jan 1958:

The squadron conducted the first carrier- based AD Skyraider in-flight refueling while operating from Ranger (CVA 61).
 
Based at: NAS Oceana, Virginia


Commanding Officers:
CDR Bartholomew J. Connolly III: Aug 1955 - July 1957
CDR Richard W. Willis: July 1957 - disestablishment

 

VA-16’s insignia was approved by CNO on 24 July 1956. The squadron’s design centered around a black knight symbolizing valor and dedication to duty. The background was divided into two fields of gold and gray to signify vigilance both day and night. A blue border surrounded the insignia. VA-16’s motto was “Per Aspera Ad Metam” (through adversities to the target).

Nickname: unknown

 

patches

 

 

| seaforces.org | US Navy Air Units start page |