Officially Licensed US Navy VAW-117 Wallbangers Patch — The Eyes Above the Strike Group
Nothing flies, fights, or floats without the Hawkeye seeing it first.
VAW-117 "Wallbangers" is a U.S. Navy Airborne Command and Control Squadron flying the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye — the only carrier-capable command and control aircraft in the world. Established at NAS North Island on July 1, 1974, the Wallbangers have deployed on carriers from USS Independence to USS Abraham Lincoln, providing the airborne early warning and battlespace management that makes carrier air wing operations possible. In 2001, VAW-117 aircraft were among the first to lead strikes on Afghanistan after 9/11, providing continuous battle management over Pakistan and southern Afghanistan. The squadron was the first fleet unit to receive the Cooperative Engagement Capability system, and in 2009 CDR Valerie Overstreet became the first female E-2 Hawkeye squadron commanding officer. Most recently, during their 2024 deployment aboard USS Abraham Lincoln with CVW-9, the Wallbangers played a critical role in defeating Houthi drones and missiles in the Red Sea, earning kill markings on their aircraft for their efforts.
Perfect For: VAW-117 Wallbangers aircrew and maintainers, E-2 Hawkeye community members, CVW-9 personnel, NAS Point Mugu squadrons, and anyone who knows the Hawkeye is the glue that holds the air wing together.
Wallbangers — the eyes that never blink.