VII Fighter Command "Sun Setters" Embroidered Patch

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Did you know that during World War II, the VII Fighter Command, known as the "Sun Setters," played a pivotal role in the Pacific Theater? Initially tasked with defending the Hawaii an Islands, they transitioned to offensive operations, providing very long-range (VLR) escort missions for B-29 bombers over Japan. Operating from bases like Iwo Jima, their P-51 Mustangs flew some of the longest fighter missions of the war, covering distances up to 1,500 miles round trip. On their inaugural VLR mission to Tokyo on April 7, 1945, the Sun Setters were credited with destroying 26 Japanese aircraft, significantly bolstering the effectiveness of the strategic bombing campaign. Their efforts were instrumental in achieving air superiority over Japan, contributing to the Allied victory in the Pacific. Show more