Fighter squadron VF-17 was lead by Lt. Commander (later Commander) John T. Blackburn and adopted the pirate "Jolly Roger" as their squadron symbol. VF-17 was to become known as the "Skull and Crossbones Squadron" and as "Blackburn's Irregulars". VF-17 served two tours of duty commencing combat operation on 27 October 1943 from their base on Ondonga, New Georgia Island. This tour of duty lasted until 01 December 1943. Their second tour of duty was from 25 January 1944 until 04 March 1944 from their base at Piva Yoke, Bougainville Island. During their 79 days in combat, VF-17 was credited with 154 1/2 victories and created 13 aces.