VFA-15 Valions
VFA-15 is temporarily closed at this time as CVW-8 is pursuing quality over quantity, and we want properly/fully staffed squadrons before reopening (10+ members per squadron).
Squadron Motto: NONE FINER!
The Valions of VFA-15 have a storied history that dates all the way back to 1942 when they were originally established as Torpedo Squadron Four (VT-4), just one month after the attack on Pearl Harbor. In the 75 years the squadron was in existence, the squadron had four different designations and flew aircraft including the TBD Devastator, TBF-1 Avenger, the AD-6 Skyraider, the A-4C Skyhawk and the A-7E Corsair II. In 1986, the squadron transitioned to the F/A-18 Hornet, starting with the early A model and eventually moving the venerable C model. Ultimately, VFA-15 would transition to the F/A-18E Super Hornet and participate in every theater of combat operations around the world, from the days of World War II to Operation ENDURING FREEDOM.
Though the squadron was officially decommissioned in May of 2017, the Valions live on here in DCS and Virtual Carrier Air Wing EIGHT. VFA-15 serves as the Wing’s Air to Ground Subject Matter Expert squadron and has the lead in creation of all training materials and phases that focus on the air to ground and SEAD elements of combat. Though still required to remain fully multi-mission qualified, the Valions lead the way in ensuring that Virtual CVW-8 can bring the pain to the enemy in all-weather conditions, whenever it is required.
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Hailing from Saint Augustine, Florida by way of Rhode Island and Maine, VFA-15’s CO has had a passion for aviation since a young age. Starting with Microsoft Flight Simulator in the late 90’s, he eventually moved to military sims including Janes Fighter series to Falcon 4.0. His real-world job as a claims manager with an auto insurance company now supports his flight sim hobby. Seeking for a more accurate mil-sim experience, the Skipper moved to DCS in 2015, and joined Virtual CVW-8 in 2020.
While always striving to be a well-rounded DCS Naval Aviator, he really gravitates toward the air-to-ground mission within DCS. He enjoys learning and implementing real world A/G tactics as much as possible and is always working to improve. In addition, he is a natural teacher and enjoys helping other learn how to fly and fight the Hornet.
Outside of DCS, the Valion CO is a former U.S. Marine who enjoys military history with an eye towards Naval Aviation. He is also a licensed private pilot who enjoys running, hunting, spending time with his family and holds a 2nd degree black belt in Krav Maga.
