VAW-117 Wallbangers Patch - With Hook and Loop
Aviators! Enjoy this beautifully embroidered VAW-117 Wallbangers Patch. You'll love displaying or wearing it on a flight suit or jacket!
4" patch
Embroidered
Hook and Loop
US Naval Aviator Owned Business

100114-N-3327M-132
NORTH ARABIAN SEA (Jan. 14, 2010) Sailors assigned to the Wallbangers of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 117 prepare an E-2C Hawkeye for launch aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). The Nimitz Carrier Strike Group is on a routine deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class James Mitchell/Released)

1970s
The squadron was established at NAS North Island, California on 1 July 1974, as part of Fighter Early Warning Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet. The squadron received its first E-2B aircraft in October 1974 and in October the following year deployed to the Mediterranean Sea on board USS Independence. The squadron made its first Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployment with Carrier Air Wing Two on board USS Ranger in February 1979.
1980s
During its 1988 WESTPAC deployment on board USS Enterprise, VAW-117 played a key role in Operation Praying Mantis during which a ship was destroyed. In addition, the squadron provided command and control during attacks on oil platforms and small ships.
1990s
On board USS Abraham Lincoln's maiden WESTPAC voyage in May 1991, VAW-117 assisted in the evacuation of dependents from the Philippines after the eruption of Mount Pinatubo during Operation Fiery Vigil. VAW-117 was awarded the Joint Meritorious Unit Award for its efforts in assisting in the evacuation. In 1999, VAW-117 was selected to provide operational testing for the Navy's newest AEW upgrade, the MCU/ACIS (Mission Computer Upgrade/ Advance Computer Information System).
2000s
VAW-117 E-2C conducts a flyover
In July