VPB-198 explained
VPB-198 was a Patrol Bombing Squadron of the U.S. Navy. The squadron was established as Bombing Squadron 198 (VB-198) on 12 September 1944, redesignated Patrol Bombing Squadron 198 (VPB-198) on 1 October 1944 and disestablished on 1 April 1946.[1]
Operational history
- 12 September 1944: VB-198 was established at NAS Moffett Field, California, under the operational control of FAW-8, as an Operational Training Unit flying the PV-1 Ventura. The mission of the squadron was to train and supply pilots and crews for all operational squadrons in the Pacific. Formerly, entire squadrons had been rotated back to the U.S. upon relief, but the new Integrated Aeronautics Program called for rotation of personnel and aircraft only. The first four crews to complete the training program departed on 20 November to relieve combat zone personnel who had completed their tours. On the average, 26 flight crews were undergoing training in different phases of the syllabus.
- April 1945: The original 20 war-weary PV-1 Venturas used by the squadron for training were replaced by new PV-2 Harpoons.
- 1 April 1946: VPB-198 was disestablished at NAS Moffett Field.[1]
Commanding officers
Aircraft assignments
The squadron was assigned the following aircraft, effective on the dates shown:[1]
- PV-1 - September 1944
- PV-2 - April 1945
Home port assignments
The squadron was assigned to these home ports, effective on the dates shown:[1]
See also
Notes and References
- Book: Roberts, Michael D.. Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons, Volume 2, Chapter 4 Patrol Bombing Squadron (VPB) Histories (VPB-145 to VPB-203). Naval Historical Center, Department of the Navy. 2000. Washington, D.C.. 587. 22 June 2016.
