First Jet Aboard the RangerVA-12 Has Another Record Makes First Jet Landing on Ranger Attack Squadron 12 chalked up another "first" in its history by making the first jet landing aboard the USS Ranger (CVA-61). During a shake-down cruise in Caribbean waters, Cdr. M.P. Deputy, squadron skipper, became the first Naval Aviator to land a jet aboard the new carrier. VA-12 received their A4D's last year. After a training period. the squadron returned to Cecil Field following a successful cruise. The "Flying Ubangis" tour aboard the USS Ranger makes it the first squadron under ComNavAirLant to deploy A4D Skyhawks for an extended period aboard an aircraft carrier. Naval Aviation News April 1958. Provided by John Gabbard. |