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On a trip to the southwestern US in 2014 we did something we had never done before and decided to chase a specific aircraft.  There were pictures circulating online of the beautiful VX-9 Vampires colour jet while the squadron was training at Naval Base Ventura County.  So after stops at bases in Arizona and Nevada and with our flight home departing from LAX on the afternoon of Friday January 31st, we spent the morning outside the base formerly known as Point Mugu.  Luck was very much on our side as the pattern was busy with VX-9 Super Hornets and Growlers, including 'Triple Sticks' and the weather cooperated providing us with sunlit aircraft and perfect blue California skies.

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A recent layover in Los Angeles allowed me to visit the base and add to this gallery.  Although it was a quiet day on September 27, 2022, I was able to catch a beautifully painted E-2D from VAW-113.  While I was very happy to see this aircraft, I hope subsequent trips will be busier.

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