Wildcats Recognized for Excellence, 100% Sortie Rate Among Naval Strike Fighter Squadrons

The Wildcats of VFA-131 have been recognized for their outstanding 100 with the Captain Michael J. Estocin Award. 

The unit was represented by Commanding officer Erin Flint during the handover at the squadron's hangar at NAS Oceana on November 3rd. Each year, the award goes to the best strike fighter squadron to recognize outstanding achievements in naval aviation. It is named for Captain Michael J. Estocin, a naval aviator who received the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Vietnam War.

VFA-131 was selected from a highly competitive field of units, including all F-18E/F and F-35C squadrons that exhibited superior performance throughout 2021. The unit was able to edge out the competition due largely in part to their performance aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), where it operated from the North Atlantic to the Gulf of Oman. During their deployment, they demonstrated both maintenance and operational excellence by flying 3,475 flight hours and achieving a 100 percent combat sortie completion rate in support of Operation Freedom's Sentinel.

“This award is a testament to the professionalism and excellence exhibited each day by our team,” said Commander Flint. “From our pilots to our aircraft maintainers, we all share in this success and it demonstrates that we remain ready to support any mission in defense of our nation.”

FMI: www.navy.mil