FIGHTER SQUADRON THREE ZERO TWO_ VF-302 STALLIONS

The Stallions of VF-302 became Reserve Carrier Air Wing Thirty's (CVWR-30) second fighter squadron on 21 May 1971. Stationed at NAS Miramar and equipped with the F-8K and F-8J Crusader, VF-302 flew the type until November 1973 when it was replaced by the F-4B Phantom. From the F-4B, the Stallions went on to fly the F-4N, F-4S, and finally the F-14A Tom¬cat which it acquired in 1985.

CDR BILL KIPER's F-8K 147007 at WAS Miramar on 5-12-73. (Fred Roos)

VF-302 F-8K 146986 in flight over Southern California with a dummy Sidewinder mounted on the fuse¬lage. (USN via Barry Miller) VF-302 F-8J 150654 at Miramar in 1972. (D. Kasulka via Jansson)

VF-302 markings were yellow tail and ventral fin flashes bordered by wide black bands, with all other markings being black.