The “Gunslingers” of VFA-105 are based at NAS Oceana, VA. They were established in March 1968, and are now flying the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18C Hornet. They participated in the Gulf War aboard the USS J.F. Kennedy (CV-67) as part of CVW-3, but are now part of CVW-3 aboard the USS Truman (CVN-75). This is a Friday party patch worn by the pilots. Here’s the story behind it………The patch designer was the late John Lombardo of Ghost Riders Inc. He designed a complete set of this style patch but at the time many squadrons did not bite because of the odd shape. His family picked up all the stock from his business at the factory when he passed. I have not seen any for years!! He ran a small business out of his home and the Leonard Corp (Swiss-Tec) who for many years made patches for everyone going back to the 40’s. They have gone out of business as far as I know. John served with VA-164 The “Ghost Riders” on board the Oriskany in the 60’s. He had many scars from the fire on board and I learned how tough life can be from someone who had paid there dues many times over. He was a good friend of mine. I was lucky to get a few tours of the Leonard Corp factory and see and buy many patches. He had family troubles and I lost touch with him for the latter years. What became of his family I will never know. He passed in the early 90’s in South Phily.
