VF-103 was established in May 1952 and began the transition from F-4S Phantoms to the F-14A Tomcat in January 1983. The ‘Sluggers’ were with the USS Saratoga in CVW-17 for the majority of her time, before switching to the USS Enterprise. VF-103 adopted the “Skull and Crossbones” of VF-84 to continue their tradition. VF-103 had one of their TARPS-birds shot down by an optical SA-2 derivative in Desert Storm with the pilot being rescued and the RIO becoming a POW. This is the patch worn by the enlisted maintainers that were responsible for a particular jet. It was known as their “bird”, and it is quite an honor to have one that you are responsible for. This version of the P.C. patch feels like “felt” and shows “wrenches” instead of “BONES” for the squadron logo. This patch does not come with velcro attached.
