McDonnell Douglas FA-18 Hornet (16-6626)

First, let me say I was honored to be invited to join the pilots of the VFA-11 "Red Rippers" in their Ready Room, for their launch, and for their recovery yesterday. I simply cannot find the words to properly express my gratitude and appreciation. It was a fantastic thrill! Thank you, "Squatch." Red Rippers Rock!
The F/A-18F CAG colorbird (166626) of the VFA-11 "Red Rippers" (NAS Oceana / Carrier Air Wing One ... USS Harry S. Truman ... CVN 75) is shown in this snap as it turns south from the north ramp at NAS Fallon on to taxiway Alpha moments before taking off from runway 31L for a noon-hour training sortie. The tail design of this colorbird depicts the proud history of the "Red Rippers." VFA-11's history dates back 90 years (1927-2017), and it is now the oldest continually active fighter squadron in the United States Navy. The aircraft silhouettes visible on the tail represent many of the various models of fighter aircraft the unit has flown during its 90 year history, which include the F-4 Wildcat, the F-6 Hellcat, the F-2 Banshee, the F-8 Crusader, the F-4 Phantom, the F-14 Tomcat, and now the F/A-18F Super Hornet.