Established as Bombing Squadron 106 (VB-106) on 1 June 1943 and later designated VPB-106 (Patrol Bombing Squadron) on 1 October 1944. VPB-106 operated until 5 October 1946. A common nickname used by this squadron was “Wolverators”.

VBP-106 utilized two primary aircraft during their three-year existence: the Consolidated PB4Y-1 Liberator and P4BY-2 Privateer.Overall, the squadron was stationed at four home bases: Camp Kearney (Miramar, Calif.), Kaneohe Bay (TH), NAS San Diego, Calif.), and Palawan. The squadron was widely dispersed to accommodate their mission and flew regularly from many other airfields, including Tinian, Mindoro, and Samar. The Wolveratorsperformed long-range patrol and interdiction missions against Japanese shipping and land targets. During their first tour, the squadron claimed 16 enemy aircraft and 43 ships damaged or destroyed.

Led by Commanding Officers CDRs J.T. Hayward and William S. Sampson, the squadron conducted hundreds of dangerous missions, earned numerous awards, and was vital to success in the pacific. Post war, the squadron continued their operations in the south Pacific, until disestablished on 5 October 1946.

Link to images from the collection on Flickr.

Link to the collection's Finding Guide.