VF-74 Be-Devilers Squadron Patch – Sew On Looking for a high-quality patch to show your support for the VF-74 Be-Devilers Look no further than our 4 inch embroidered patch! Made with precision and care, this patch is a perfect way to honor the legacy of this legendary squadron. 4 inch Embroidered US Naval Aviator Owned Business Sew On Plastic Backing (increases rigidity; the patch lasts longer and stays flat) Fighter Squadron 74, Be-Devilers was an aviation unit of the United States Navy in service from 1944 to 1994.[1] Originally established as VBF-20 on 16 April 1945, it was redesignated as VF-10A on 15 November 1946, redesignated as VF-92 on 12 August 1948, redesignated as VF-74 on 15 January 1950 and disestablished on 30 April 1994. It was the third US Navy squadron to be designated as VF-74. VF-74 began to transition to the F-4B Phantom II becoming the first deployable F-4 squadron in 8 July 1961, giving rise to their "First in Phantoms" motto. They deployed aboard USS Forrestal in August 1962 replacing VF-104's F4D's in CAG-8{fact}. VF-74 would deploy 15 times in 20 years with the Phantom, 13 to the Mediterranean and two to South East Asia. When an ordnance explosion on the flight deck causing a massive fire, many members contributed to the fighting the fire and saving the ship on 9 July 1967. Sadly, VF-74 lost 42 enlisted personnel and three F-4s in their heroic efforts. In early 1972 they transitioned from the F-4B to the F-4J. Between July 1972 to February 1973 the squadron returned to combat in Vietnam on board the USS America. During seven periods on the famous Yankee Station VF-74 did not lose a single aircraft to enemy action. In 1975, they moved to CVW-8 and took part in the maiden cruise of USS Nimitz. In 1976 they won the Admiral Joseph Clifton Award, making them the top US Navy fighter squadron.
