F4D-1 Skyray #134802/ PA-32 VFAW-3 Det E Oct 1962

The Douglas F4D Skyray (later redesignated F-6 Skyray) was a carrier-based supersonic fighter/interceptor built by the Douglas Aircraft Company. Affectionately known as the "Ford" (after the "Four" and "D" of its designation). Although it was in service for a relatively short time and never entered combat, it was notable for being the first carrier-launched aircraft to hold the world's absolute speed record, at 752.943 mph and was the first United States Navy and United States Marine Corps fighter that could exceed Mach 1 in level flight. It was the last fighter produced by the Douglas Aircraft Company before it merged with McDonnell Aircraft and became McDonnell Douglas.

All Weather Fighter Squadron 3 (VF(AW)-3) was established in 1944 and deactivated in 1963. From 1955 to 1963, it was the only U.S. Navy unit assigned to the North American Air Defense Command to detect and defend against enemy aircraft.

During the Cuba Missile Crisis, in October 1962, VF(AW)-3 had a detachment of six aircraft (Detachment Echo) at Naval Air Station Key West, Florida under control of the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD).