Official VAQ-139 Cougars Growler Patch - Electronic Attack Squadron 139 (VAQ-139) EA-18G Growler Embroidered Patch, NAS Whidbey Island, Carrier Air Wing Seventeen.
Si Vis Pacem Para Bellum — if you want peace, prepare for war — and the Cougars have lived that motto across four decades of carrier-based electronic attack.
VAQ-139 became operational on 1 July 1983 at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington, flying the EA-6B Prowler before completing its transition to the EA-18G Growler. The squadron has deployed in support of Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Inherent Resolve, delivering around-the-clock electronic warfare support to coalition forces in some of the most contested airspace of the modern era. As part of Carrier Air Wing Seventeen, the Cougars deploy aboard USS Nimitz, most recently completing a nine-month mission across the U.S. 3rd, 5th, and 7th Fleet areas of operations. The squadron also made history in September 2013 by conducting the first successful live fire of the AIM-120 AMRAAM from an EA-18G Growler, cementing its reputation as a leader in electronic attack development. The Cougars insignia — a stylized cougar head representing agility, strength, and keen senses — gives this embroidered patch a sharp, recognizable identity that stands out on any display board, flight jacket, or shadow box alongside broader carrier strike group and Navy aviation pieces.
Perfect For: Navy electronic attack veterans, EA-18G Growler aircrew and maintainers, VAQ-139 Cougars alumni, Carrier Air Wing Seventeen collectors, NAS Whidbey Island community members, USS Nimitz cruise book displays, shadow boxes, challenge coin and patch panels, reunion gifts, and anyone building a serious Navy aviation collection around electronic warfare heritage and carrier-based strike operations. It also suits families and supporters who want a well-researched tribute to the crews who suppress enemy air defenses and protect strike packages across every major fleet area of operations.
Cougar pride, stitched in thread — four decades of electronic attack heritage on a single patch.
