The US Navy's first F-35C Lightning II squadron, Strike Fighter Squadron 101 (VFA-101), hosted a rollout ceremony for its new aircraft at the squadron's home at Eglin AFB, Florida, on 1 October 2013. Known as the Grim Reapers, VFA-101 will serve as the Navy's first F-35C Fleet Replacement Squadron. Commander, US Fleet Forces Command, Adm. Bill Gortney and Commander, Naval Air Forces, Vice Adm. David H. Buss were the principal speakers. Several local community leaders also attended, including the mayors of Niceville, Mary Ester, and Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Formed in 1942, the Grim Reapers flew combat missions in the Battle of Guadalcanal and during the Korean War. At several times since, the squadron has served as a training unit.
