The U.S. Navy F-14 VF-154 Any Knight Baby Patch by COMMANDO is a military aviation morale patch commemorating the Black Knights of Fighter Squadron 154 and their years operating the Grumman F-14 Tomcat. It is a collectible design for naval aviation enthusiasts, former service personnel and collectors interested in the history of U.S. Navy carrier-based fighter aircraft.
The History of VF-154 – The Black Knights
The history of VF-154 can be traced back to 1946, when the squadron was established as Naval Reserve unit VFB-718. After several redesignations and periods of service flying aircraft including the Hellcat, Corsair, Panther, Fury, Crusader and Phantom II, it became VF-154 in February 1953.
The Black Knights name and insignia emerged during the squadron's transition to the F-8 Crusader in the late 1950s. The knight emblem was designed by celebrated cartoonist Milton Caniff. Its sword represented the squadron's role in striking against threats to peace and justice, while the shield symbolised protection of those unable to defend themselves. The insignia became a distinctive part of the squadron's identity.
In October 1983, VF-154 transitioned to the F-14A Tomcat, beginning a twenty-year association with the aircraft. The squadron deployed aboard USS Constellation in 1985 and later supported Operation Desert Shield following Iraq's invasion of Kuwait in August 1990. In 1991, VF-154 moved to USS Independence and became the U.S. Navy's first forward-deployed F-14 squadron, based at NAF Atsugi in Japan.
During its time in Japan, VF-154 became the first F-14 squadron to deploy with an air-to-ground bombing capability. The Black Knights continued operating the Tomcat into the early 2000s, including missions supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. In October 2003, the squadron was redesignated VFA-154 and transitioned to the F/A-18F Super Hornet, bringing its F-14 era to an end.
The Any Knight Baby design celebrates this distinctive chapter in Black Knights history and the squadron's association with the Tomcat.
Features
- U.S. Navy VF-154 Black Knights aviation-themed morale patch
- Commemorates the squadron's F-14 Tomcat era from 1983 to 2003
- Recognises the Black Knights squadron identity and heritage
- Woven fabric construction
- Suitable for military patch collections and aviation memorabilia displays
Specifications
Brand: COMMANDO
Product Code: BD0076
Patch Type: Military aviation morale patch
Construction: Woven fabric
Attachment: Sew-on
Dimensions: 90 x 90 mm
Barcode / GTIN: 9357994008941
A distinctive addition to any collection of U.S. Navy and military aviation memorabilia, the VF-154 Any Knight Baby Patch pays tribute to the Black Knights and their long association with the F-14 Tomcat. It is also a fitting keepsake for enthusiasts who appreciate the history of carrier-based fighter aviation.