Intro
Discover the illustrious history and significance of Carrier Air Wing Eight, a premier naval aviation unit. Learn about its storied past, notable deployments, and aircraft operations, as well as its role in carrier strike group warfare and naval air power. Explore the five key things that define CVW-8s legacy and impact on modern naval warfare.
Carrier Air Wing Eight (CVW-8) is a United States Navy aircraft carrier air wing based at Naval Air Station Oceana, Virginia. As one of the most storied and decorated air wings in the Navy, CVW-8 has a rich history that spans over seven decades. Here are five things you might not know about Carrier Air Wing Eight:
Carrier Air Wing Eight has been a part of some of the most significant military operations in history, including World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Established on August 1, 1943, CVW-8 has been attached to various aircraft carriers, including the USS Intrepid (CV-11), USS Hancock (CV-19), and USS America (CV-66). Throughout its history, the air wing has flown over 100,000 combat sorties and has been awarded numerous citations and commendations for its exceptional service.
Freedom's Forge
One of the nicknames of Carrier Air Wing Eight is "Freedom's Forge." This moniker reflects the air wing's commitment to protecting freedom and democracy around the world. As part of the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) Carrier Strike Group, CVW-8 has been involved in numerous military operations, including combat missions in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Home of the 'Battle Axe'
Carrier Air Wing Eight is also known as the home of the "Battle Axe" squadrons. This nickname dates back to World War II, when the air wing's fighter squadrons, VF-17 and VF-18, flew the F4U Corsair and F6F Hellcat aircraft. The "Battle Axe" moniker was given to the squadrons due to their exceptional combat record, which included shooting down over 200 enemy aircraft.
Aircraft and Squadrons
Carrier Air Wing Eight consists of eight squadrons, each with its own unique aircraft and mission. The air wing is home to F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet strike fighters, EA-6B Prowler electronic warfare aircraft, E-2C Hawkeye airborne early warning aircraft, SH-60 Seahawk helicopters, and C-2A Greyhound cargo aircraft.
The squadrons that make up CVW-8 include:
- VFA-15 Valions (F/A-18E Super Hornet)
- VFA-31 Tomcatters (F/A-18E Super Hornet)
- VFA-213 Black Lions (F/A-18F Super Hornet)
- VAW-124 Bear Aces (E-2C Hawkeye)
- VAQ-131 Lancers (EA-6B Prowler)
- VRC-40 Rawhides (C-2A Greyhound)
- HSC-28 Dragon Whales (SH-60 Seahawk)
- HSM-70 Spartans (SH-60 Seahawk)
Training and Readiness
Carrier Air Wing Eight places a high emphasis on training and readiness. The air wing's squadrons participate in numerous exercises and training events throughout the year, including carrier qualifications, air-to-air combat training, and anti-submarine warfare exercises. The air wing also participates in joint exercises with other military branches and international partners to maintain its combat readiness.
Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief
In addition to its combat role, Carrier Air Wing Eight also participates in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations. The air wing's aircraft and personnel have been involved in numerous relief efforts, including Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and the 2010 Haiti earthquake. The air wing's aircraft have also been used to transport aid and supplies to affected areas.
Legacy of Excellence
Carrier Air Wing Eight has a legacy of excellence that spans over seven decades. The air wing has been awarded numerous citations and commendations for its exceptional service, including the Presidential Unit Citation, the Navy Unit Commendation, and the Meritorious Unit Commendation. The air wing's squadrons have also been awarded numerous awards for their exceptional performance, including the Navy's top award for aviation excellence, the Safety "S" award.
In conclusion, Carrier Air Wing Eight is a highly respected and decorated air wing with a rich history of service to the United States. From its involvement in some of the most significant military operations in history to its humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts, CVW-8 has consistently demonstrated its commitment to protecting freedom and democracy around the world.
Gallery of Carrier Air Wing Eight:
Carrier Air Wing Eight Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the nickname of Carrier Air Wing Eight?
+Carrier Air Wing Eight is also known as "Freedom's Forge" and the "Battle Axe" squadrons.
What aircraft does Carrier Air Wing Eight fly?
+Carrier Air Wing Eight flies the F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet strike fighters, EA-6B Prowler electronic warfare aircraft, E-2C Hawkeye airborne early warning aircraft, SH-60 Seahawk helicopters, and C-2A Greyhound cargo aircraft.
What is the primary mission of Carrier Air Wing Eight?
+The primary mission of Carrier Air Wing Eight is to conduct combat operations in support of national security objectives.