Fighter Squadron 21 (VF-21, VC-11, VGS-11) "Freelancers"
U.S. Navy (USN)

Background
On August 5, 1942 established as U.S. Navy (USN) as Escort Scouting Squadrons 11 (VGS-11). On March 1, 1943 redesignated Composite Squadron 11 (VC-11). On May 16, 1943 redesignated Fighter Squadron 21 (VF-21) nicknamed "Freelancers".

Wartime History
During 1943 part of Carrier Air Group 21 (CAG-21) that operated F4F-4 Wildcats land based from Henderson Field on Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands.

On June 30, 1943 the squadron participated in dawn to dusk "Rendova Patrols" over the U.S. Navy force off Rendova Island.

On June 30, 1943 the squadron took off from Henderson Field on Guadalcanal flying dawn to dusk "Rendova Patrol" mission to provide air cover over the U.S. landing on Rendova Island. The formation also included F4U Corsairs from VMF-121 and VMF-221 and VMF-213. Lost is F4F-4 Wildcat 11862 pilot Lt(jg) Thomas A. Ruth (MIA), F4F-4 Wildcat pilot Henry (MIA) and F4F-4 Wildcat 03441 piloted by Thrash (rescued). In total, VF-21 lost five planes including at least one that crash landed returning to base and possibly another as well.

On July 15, 1943 the squadron took off from Henderson Field on Guadalcanal on a patrol mission over Rendova. Lost is F4F Wildcat 12059 pilot Ensign Jack H. Redinger (MIA).

On July 22, 1943 lost is F4F Wildcat 11679 pilot LtCdr Ross E. Torkelson (MIA) and F4F 11975 pilot Vowcrantz (MIA) and F4F 12176 pilot Scol.

On September 27, 1943 the squadron reformed for a second tour of duty.

On November 5, 1945 disbanded as a squadron.

Commanding Officers (C.O.)
Lt. Commander Charles H. Ostrom (MIA USS Liscombe Bay)

Executive Officer (X. O.)
Lt. Commander Ross E. Torkelson (MIA July 22, 1943) earned Navy Cross for missions flown between June 21, 1943–July 17, 1943 claimed 3 bombers 2 Zeros.

Contribute Information
Do you have photos or additional information to add?