Shore Units

STRIKE FIGHTER WING ATLANTIC
Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic (CSFWL) is a 'Type Wing Commander,' providing U.S. Atlantic Fleet Commanders with Strike Fighter Squadrons flying the F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet aircraft. CSFWL exercises operational command over one Fleet Replacement Squadron (VFA-106) and one Strike Fighter Weapons School, Atlantic.

CSFWL is responsible for the shore based operations, administration, training, readiness and material condition inspections of the Wing, consisting of over 7,000 officer and enlisted personnel and civilians, and 167 aircraft. The training and support provided by CSFWL ensures maximum combat readiness of the eleven fleet F/A-18 squadrons during shore-based operations, while they are under the direct operational and administrative control of their respective Carrier Air Wing Commanders.

Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic, was originally commissioned as Light Attack Wing One (CLAW-1) in June 1970. The command was responsible for the logisti cs and administrative support of the A-4 Skyhawk, A-7E Corsair and F-16 Falcon aircraft. With the advent of the F/A-18 Hornet, the Light Attack Wing was renamed Strike Fighter Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet, in December 1992. In FY-05, the Strike Fighter Wing and Fighter Wing consolidated into one and integrated the F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet into East Coast Air Wings. Also, in FY-05, CSFWL transitioned 4 F-14 Tomcat squadrons into F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet squadrons.

STRIKE FIGHTER WEAPONS SCHOOL, ATLANTIC
Strike Fighter Weapons School, Atlantic's (SFWLANT) primary mission is to provide standardized, post-graduate level training for FA-18 Strike Fighter tactics, mission planning, strike intelligence and air-launched weapons handling, loading, arm/de-arm procedures and mission employment to Navy, Marine Corps and Naval Reserve units.

SFWSLANT was established in 1987 as Light Attack Weapons School, Atlantic at Naval Air Station Cecil Field, Jacksonville, Fla. In 1999, the Weapons School executed a move to NAS Oceana, Virginia. As a result of the Navy's transition from the F-14 to the F/A-18 strike aircraft, SFWSLANT consolidated with the F-14 Weapons School (SWATSLANT) on March 22, 2002 to allow a synergistic approach in the training of the Strike Fighter community.

The centerpiece of the weapons school support is the Strike Fighter Advanced Readiness Program (SFARP), which provides advanced unit level Air-to-Air and Air-to-Ground training, preparing squadrons for Air Wing weapons detachments and subsequent deployment. SFWSLANT trains aviation ordnance and avionics personnel to safely and properly handle, load, and perform release and control checks for all conventional ordnance carried by Strike Fighter aircraft. Additionally, SFWSLANT provides initial and intermediate level training to intelligence officers and specialists in mission planning and support for precision weapons employment.

As Naval Aviation roles expand and tactics continue to develop, the Strike Fighter Weapons School, Atlantic will increasingly be called upon to train the aircrew and enlisted personnel of the Strike Fighter community to succeed in combat.

NAVY LANDING SIGNAL OFFICER SCHOOL
The U.S. Navy Landing Signal Officer (LSO) School is located in Building 150 at NAS Oceana. The school is the only institution of its kind in the world and provides ground instruction for all Landing Signal Officers in the Navy & Marine Corps—as well as several foreign countries. The courses include training in glideslope geometry, aircraft characteristics, shipboard catapults and arresting gear, administrative duties, and most importantly, safety. Students in the course also acquire hands-on, real-time training utilizing the Landing Signal Officer Trainer (LSOT). The LSOT is a fully functioning, full-size mockup of an actual LSO platform, complete with detailed computer generated displays. Instructors have the ability to manipulate all conditions of aircraft, ship motion and environment to maximize student LSO training. Length of courses provided is two weeks for Initial Formal Ground Training (new LSOs), three days for the FRS/TRACOM course (Replacement Squadron and Training Command LSOs), and three days for Advanced Formal Ground Training (Prospective Air Wing LSO) course.

FLEET READINESS CENTER MID-ATLANTIC
Fleet Readiness Center Mid-Atlantic performs scheduled integrated maintenance inspection and repair, unscheduled emergency in-service repair, structural and electronic system modification, weight and balance and Non-Destructive Inspections on numerous carrier based aircraft, saving the Naval Aviation Enterprise (NAE) thousands of dollars while maintaining state-of-the art warfighting capability.

The Fleet Readiness Center Mid-Atlantic vision is to be an enduring World Class Aviation Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) Organization, focused on leveraging the full potential of our diverse capabilities and skills with the center of our attention on warfighting mission requirements, quality products and services for our customers on the flightline. We are dedicated to delivering products and services to our customers Safely, Professionally, and On-Time (SPOT).

Fleet Readiness Center Mid-Atlantic is the industrial leader in the region. They feature Intermediate and Depot level support and their workforce is comprised of nearly 2,800 military, civil service, and contract personnel who take great pride in their contributions to Fleet readiness and the defense of our country.

In October 2006, Fleet Readiness Center Mid-Atlantic was established aboard NAS Oceana and realigned to Commander, Fleet Readiness Centers and Commander, Naval Air Forces. Per Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) 2005, this change integrated the former Naval Air Depot Jacksonville Detachment Oceana and Norfolk, the Voyage Repair Team and former Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Detachments located in Atlanta, Corpus Christi, New Orleans, Norfolk, Patuxent River, Oceana and Washington, merging depot-level artisans and intermediate level-technicians into a more agile and capable aviation maintenance, repair and overhaul facility.

Located in Hangar 200, Fleet Readiness Center Mid-Atlantic is one of seven Fleet Readiness Centers devoted to the maintenance of naval aircraft and provides full-spectrum aircraft maintenance operations, possessing all of the key capabilities required to maintain high-performance tactical aircraft in support of warfighter readiness. Fleet Readiness Center Mid-Atlantic is geographically dispersed across six states supporting F/A-18, E-2, C-2, H-60, CH-46, AH-1, UH-1, EA-6B and H-53 aircraft/helicopters, ground support equipment and associated F-404, T-56, T-700, T-400 and T-64 engine models.

FLEET READINESS CENTER MID-ATLANTIC (FRCMA) SITE OCEANA
Fleet Readiness Center Mid-Atlantic (FRCMA) Site Oceana is the largest Level-II maintenance facility in the Department of the Navy, occupying 304,726 sq. ft. of industrial space onboard NAS Oceana. The site is led by a staff of 13 officers who manage the efforts of 1,115 Sailors and 43 civilian technical representatives.

FRCMA Site Oceana directly supports 18 F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet Squadrons, provides sea operational detachment (SEAOPDET) support to 10 aircraft carriers, and is a Maintenance Center-of-Excellence for F404 engine repair supporting 43 activities worldwide. As the largest and most diverse Level-II maintenance facility within the Naval Aviation Enterprise, our team of Sailors, Marines, civilians and contractors augment deploying Carrier Air Wings during at sea periods and shore-based training detachments.

FRCMA Site Oceana accounted for 768 Beyond Capable Maintenance (BCM) interdictions in FY-09, resulting in cost avoidance of $29.1M. Additionally, Sailor utilization of AIRSpeed principles and artisan integration into military production efforts have allowed FRCMA Site Oceana to support the Naval Aviation Enterprise through total cost avoidances of $60.2M since FRC integration. FRCMA Site Oceana personnel are renowned throughout the NAE and Fleet for their technical knowledge and unparalleled aviation maintenance expertise.

STRIKE FIGHTER SQUADRON ONE ZERO SIX
"GLADIATORS"
Strike-Fighter Squadron One Zero Six began as Bomber-Fighter Squadron 17 (VBF-17) at Agana Air Field, Guam on Jan. 11, 1945. One month later, flying F6F-5 Hellcats, VBF-17 embarked onboard USS Hornet (CV 12) to participate in combat operations against the Japanese. Operations included strikes against Tokyo, Iwo Jima and Okinawa as well as the first major air strikes against the islands of Kyushu and Shikoku.

In late 1946 the squadron moved to NAS Norfolk, Va., was redesignated as Fighter Squadron Six Baker (VF-6B) and began flying the F4U-4 Corsair. Redesignated again in July 1948 as Fighter Squadron 62 (VF-62), the squadron transitioned to F8F Bearcat aircraft. In August 1950 the squadron received F2H Banshee aircraft and moved to NAS Cecil Field, Fla. VF-62 officially became the "Gladiators" on April 16, 1952. Combat action in the Korean Conflict came in 1953 from the USS Lake Champlain (CVA-39) when the Gladiators were tasked with striking key bridges on the Korean mainland.

The squadron was redesignated as Attack Squadron 106 (VA-106) in March 1955 and received F9F-8B Cougar aircraft later that year. In June 1958 the transition was made to Douglas A4D-2 Skyhawks.

During the ensuing peaceful years, the Gladiators participated in various Atlantic Fleet exercises and numerous Mediterranean cruises onboard USS Essex (CVA 9), USS Shangri-la (CVA 38) and USS Saratoga (CVA 60). These years of training concluded on July 17, 1967 as the Gladiators launched into combat over Vietnam from the deck of the USS Forrestal (CVA 59). VA-106 returned home in September 1967 for a brief turnaround prior to deploying onboard USS Intrepid (CVA 62) in June 1968. The Gladiators remained on station flying combat missions into Vietnam for over six months before returning home in February 1969. The squadron was subsequently decommissioned on Nov. 7, 1969.

Strike Fighter Squadron 106 (VFA-106) was commissioned at NAS Cecil Field on April 27, 1984, flying the Navy's newest tactical aircraft, the F/A-18 Hornet. In the summer of 1999 VFA-106 moved from NAS Cecil Field to NAS Oceana, Va. In the summer of 2004 VFA-106 also began training aviators and Weapon System Officers (WSO) in the F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet. As the East Coast Fleet Replacement Squadron, the Gladiators' mission is to train F/A-18 Replacement Pilots to support fleet commitments.

Every six weeks a class of between eight to 12 newly-winged Navy and Marine Corps pilots and Naval Flight Officers begins the nine month training course in which they will learn the basics of air-to-air and air-to-ground missions culminating in day/night carrier qualification and subsequent assignment to a fleet Hornet squadron. Since it's commissioning, VFA-106 has earned numerous awards, including the Navy Unit Commendation, Meritorious Unit Commendation and two Chief of Naval Operations Aviation Safety Awards.

FIGHTER SQUADRON COMPOSITE TWELVE
"OMARS"
Fighter Squadron Composite Twelve was originally commissioned VC 12 on Oct. 6, 1943 at NAS Sand Point, Seattle, Wash. The squadron operated the F-4F "Wildcat" and TBM-1 "Avenger" aboard USS CARD (CVE-11) in the Western Pacific until the carrier changed homeport to Norfolk, Va. in 1944. In the Atlantic theater, VC 12 flew combat missions against German U-boats logging 34 engagements in 1944. On June 7, 1945, VC 12 was disestablished. On Sept. 1, 1948, Carrier Air Early Warning Squadron Two, based at NAS Norfolk, was re designated Fleet Composite Squadron Twelve. VC 12 operated TBM-3 "Avengers" from active Atlantic Fleet carriers. During the Korean conflict, VC 12 once again saw combat while operating from USS Bon Homme Richard. VC 12 was again disestablished on Sept. 29, 1953.

On Sept. 1, 1973, at NAF Detroit, Mich., VC 12 was again commissioned as the first Reserve Fleet Composite Squadron in naval history. In 1975, VC 12 moved to its current home at NAS Oceana, Virginia Beach, Va. In June 1988, VC 12 was designated Fighter Squadron Composite Twelve (VFC 12 "The Omars") to more accurately describe the squadron's mission of Dissimilar Air Combat Training. Employing the venerable A-4F "Superfox" and the TA-4J, the squadron provided multiple support services including air intercept and dissimilar Air Combat Maneuvering (ACM) training for Atlantic and Pacific Fleet units. The Omars often averaged more than 200 days a year on detachments earning the name "the Road Gang" and a reputation for always being able to get the job done anytime, anywhere. That reputation is even stronger today as the squadron, now a member of Carrier Air Wing Reserve Twenty (CVWR 20), leads the COMNAVAIRESFOR contributory support effort via the Strike Fighter Advanced Readiness Program and Air Combat Maneuvering training for F/A-18 fleet and replacement squadrons.

VFC 12 was awarded the Chief of Naval Operations Aviation Safety Award in 1978, 1980, 1981, 1992, 1998 and 2000 as well as CVWR 20 Golden Wrench Award for outstanding maintenance performance in 1993 and 1998. VFC 12 has maintained unprecedented operational readiness and was awarded the Noel Davis trophy for 1980, 1984, 1985, 1995, 1998, 2000, 2002 and 2004. The Omars received a Meritorious Unit Commendation for sustained superior performance from April 1, 1987 to March 21, 1988 and again from March 1, 1990 to Sept. 30, 1993.

In 1993, VFC 12 transitioned to the F/A-18 "Hornet" without disruption to fleet support. The A-4s were retired after 20 years of service logging over 87,000 flight hours of contributory support missions. Donning both a Kola Peninsula and desert camouflage paint scheme, the Omars provide 4th generation adversary presentations of air-to-air threats that our forces may encounter.

In preparation for transitioning to a full Strike Fighter Squadron, the Omars of VFC 12 received its first upgraded F/A-18A+ aircraft in July 2004. The squadron passed its first full CWTPI allowing the first Air to Ground detachment to NAS Fallon, Nev. where 145,000 pounds of ordnance was expended. Omar aircraft also landed on an aircraft carrier for the first time during a detachment to the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76).

With new tasking to refocus on professional fourth generation Adversary support, VFC 12 developed three new Fleet threat briefs: Threat Aircraft, Threat Missiles and Threat Pilot/Tactics and repainted all aircraft with a SU-27 threat-representative paint scheme to improve fleet training. The Omars are open for business and ready to support!

FLEET LOGISTICS
SUPPORT SQUADRON FIVE SIX
"GLOBEMASTERS"
Fleet Logistics Support Squadron FIVE SIX (VR-56) was commissioned at Naval Air Station Norfolk, Va. in July 1976. As one of fifteen logistics squadrons in the United States Navy, VR-56 provides flexible and responsive air logistics support to sustain our military forces both abroad and at home. A combination of active and reserve personnel at VR-56 operate and maintain four C-9B "Skytrain II" aircraft.

The C-9B is a unique Navy version of the McDonnell Douglas DC-9. It was designed with an aft stairway and forward cargo door to accommodate both passengers and cargo simultaneously. The aircraft incorporates extended range fuel tanks to allow for trans-oceanic flight, giving it a range of approximately 2500 miles. Its two turbofan engines provide 14,500 pounds of thrust, allowing it to cruise at a maximum speed of .84 mach and up to a service ceiling of 37,000 feet. The typical crew consists of two Pilots, a Crew Chief, a Loadmaster and a Transport Safety Specialist. With a maximum capacity of 90 passengers and a maximum takeoff weight of 110,000 pounds, the Navy C-9B serves a wide variety of logistics missions.

From its inception, the squadron's operations have been closely linked to many major U.S. military operations. In the 1990's, the squadron mobilized for Operation Desert Storm to transport personnel and essential supplies in theater. The squadron also supported U.S. operations in Croatia, Somalia, and Yugoslavia. Since 9/11, the squadron has continually supported Operations Enduring Freedon and Iraqi Freedom. VR-56 assisted in disaster relief during the 2005 hurricanes Katrina and Rita here at home. Also in 2005, VR-56 detachments flew humanitarian assistance missions for the Indonesian Tsunami and the Pakistan/Afghanistan earthquake, transporting vital medical supplies and personnel. More recently, the Globemasters were called upon to deliver urgent supplies and personnel in direct humanitarian support of Operation Unified Response, in the wake of the devastating earthquake in Haiti.

In recognition of such operations and as a testament to the pride and professionalism exhibited by squadron personnel over the years, VR-56 has received numerous accolades. Specifically, the squadron has earned a Naval Unit Commendation, three Meritorious Unit Commendations, six Noel Davis Battle Efficiency awards, the Chief of Naval Operations Annual Aviation Safety award, the Commander Naval Air Reserve Force "Readiness through Safety" award, the JOSAC Unit of the Year award (Large Jet category), two JOSAC Large Aircraft Unit of the Quarter Awards, two Armed Forces Service Medals, one Armed Service Expeditionary Medal and a Humanitarian Service Medal. Additionally, the Globemasters have received two Congressman Bill Chappell Awards as the best operational Fleet Logistics Support squadron, and three James M. Holcombe Awards as the top Maintenance Department within the Fleet Logistics Support Wing. In 2007, the squadron was honored to receive the Chief of Naval Operation's prestigious Safety "S" award recognizing the squadron's safety program as the preeminent program in the Fleet Logistics Support Wing.

VR-56 has completed more than 245 overseas detachments covering six continents and 40 million miles. In July 2009, the squadron surpassed 157,000 hours and 33 years of class-A mishap free flying, safely carrying over five million passengers and 31 million pounds of cargo to countless destinations. Safety, versatility, and dependability are key words in describing the mission of the Globemasters. The men and women of VR-56 take great pride in the squadron's accomplishments and contributions, and continue to look ahead to provide world-class logistics support to U.S. Forces wherever they may be deployed.  read more...

---