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VA-34 FLIES A4D'S ABOARD ESSEX

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DOUGLAS A4D-2 SKYHAWKS WERE NEW TO MANY ESSEX CREWMEN


Attack Squadron 34, based at NAS Cecil Field, claims to be the first VA jet attack squadron to operate off a CVS. the carrier was USS Essex (CVS-9), Commanded by Capt. S.S. Searcy.

These operations took place in order to test the desirability of operating A4D Skyhawks with an ASW air group composed of S2F Trackers, HSS-1 helicopters, and AD Guppys. It was a new and unusual sight for Essex flight crews, for many of their number had never seen an A4D up close. But after a few days of operations, they were old pros with the jets.

During the 19 flying days aboard the Essex, VA-34 with 12 aircraft and 16 pilots compiled a total of 768 flight hours and 512 arrested landings, Commanding Officer at the time was Cdr. Mitchell C. Griffin who was recently relieved by Cdr. W.J. Forgy, former executive officer.

During the cruise, Cdr. Forgy, X.O., and LCdr. Zebrowski, Operations Officer, each made his 500th carrier landing, and Lieutenants Stump, Augustine and Pirie each came in for his 300th carrier landing.

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SEARCY, FORGY, GRIFFIN AFTER FORGY'S CARRIER LANING #500

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READY FOR FLIGHT, AN A4D IS SHOWN ON THE ESSEX CATAPULT

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NAVAL AVIATION NEWS