A remarkable piece of aviation history ended when Rear Admiral “Bad Fred” Lewis USN (Ret.) thanked all present during the Tomcat Sunset ceremony on September 23, 2006.  “Bad Fred”, Chairman of the Tomcat Sunset community, looked back at 36 years of service for the Grumman F-14 Tomcat.  Sadness but also pride was part of the sentiments felt by most present at NAS Oceana that day. The F-14 Tomcat had a colorful history and will be remembered in the hearts of many whether they were aircrew, maintainers, Grumman employees or just fans.

The aircraft was created by the Grumman Aerospace Corporation and saw its first flight on December 21, 1970.  The first years were tough as it had to conquer many technical and political problems and as well battling budget overruns.  First deployments started in 1974 and included air cover for the Vietnam War aftermath operations.  Full operational strength started shortly after when the Cold War heated up when the F-14 Tomcat provided air superiority in the skies over the free world and proved itself worthy in operations in Grenada, Libya, and during Desert Storm. Although challenged, the Tomcat always dominated.  Anytime Baby!

During the highlight of its career, the F-14D Tomcat represented the ultimate fighter cat with an updated electronics and weapon suite making it the top fighter in its generation.  When the Cold war ended around 1990, the aircraft adopted pretty quick the mud mover role and had an important presence during the Balkans War, Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.  It was part of America’s answer to the 9-11 aggressors, and we gave them hell Baby!

Thirty Six fine years, it’s been a long ride. Sadly we lost many friends on the road but they will always be in our minds and hearts. Although the flying days are over, many Cats still reside at museums and in the Boneyard.  Whenever you pass by a static display or visit a museum and see one of these great birds, please pay respect as it represents a great generation of people, whose efforts defended a free world and some who paid the ultimate sacrifice in that service.  The price of Freedom is never free.

This TomcatSunset.org website pays tribute to those who produced, flew, maintained or otherwise loved the F-14 Tomcat. Always baby!

 

The F-14 TomcatSunset.org Staff.