Callsign “RIPPER”, the VF-11 Red Rippers transitioned from the F-4Js to the F-14A Tomcat in 1980. They were originally designated as VF-43 in September 1950, then redesignated in February 1959. They adopted the squadron insignia of the original VF-11 which was decommissioned the day prior, but even though they carry on the tradition of the insignia, they do not carry the original VF-11 lineage which dates back to February 1927. This is the “plane captain” patch worn by the maintenance personnel that take care of the birds.
