Light Attack Squadron Four VAL-4
| Era | Vietnam War |
|---|---|
| Branch | U.S. Navy |
| Wall | GG |
| Wall Side | 1 |
| Row | 1 |
| Plaque Number | 1 |
Dedicated to the Officers and Men of
LIGHT ATTACK SQUADRON FOUR (VAL-4)
BLACK PONIES
Commissioned on January 3, 1969, VAL-4 was the Navy's only land-based, fixed-wing attack squadron. Initially based at NAS North Island in San Diego, the entire squadron moved to Binh Thuy and Vung Tau in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam and began combat operations on April 11, 1969.
The Black Ponies became an important element of Task Force 116 by supporting the 'brown water' Navy's riverine forces, SEALS, and allies during combat operations. The Black Ponies flew the North America Rockwell OV-10 Bronco during its 3 years of combat operations. In its short history, the Black Ponies flew over 21,000 combat sorties totaling over 42,000 flight hours. The Black Ponies' combat operations ceased on March 31, 1972. The squadron was decommissioned on April 10, 1972.
Awarded:
Presidential Unit Citation
Navy Unit Commendation
Meritorious Unit Commendation
Republic of Vietnam Armed Forces Pres. Unit Citation
Republic of Vietnam Armed Forces Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross)
Plaque Wall Map
