United States Navy Reserve's Tactical
Support Wing
Strike Fighter Squadron VFA - 204
“River Rattlers”
Aircraft: McDonnell Douglas F/A-18C/D
Hornet
Distinguished Markings:
Two-tone aggressor paint scheme
VFA-204, now VFC-204, is a distinguished U.S. Navy Reserve Strike Fighter Squadron. The River Rattlers operate the versatile F/A-18 Hornet and now the F-5 Tiger. The photographs on this page are from various airshows and chance encounters, capturing the essence of the River Rattlers in action.
River Rattlers
JRB New Orleans
Rattler High-Speed Pass
US Navy CDR. Borya “Borat” Celentano of VFA-204 River Rattlers flies the F/A-18 Legacy Hornet in a stunning high-speed pass. The 204th squadron truly put on an unforgettable demonstration for the crowd in Belle Chasse. Witnessing this squadron burn up the sky was a pleasure, and capturing them at the end of an era was an honor.
Snakes in Diamond!
The VFA-204 River Rattlers, flying their F/A-18 Hornets, execute a flawless Diamond Formation. This captivating print captures the precision and aircraft control of the River Rattlers as they soar over JRB New Orleans. Feel the adrenaline and experience the spectacle of the Diamond Formation with this stunning piece of aviation photography.
Snakes on Parade
US Navy “River 2” of VFA-204 leads a River Rattler’s diamond formation in front of the crowd in Belle Chasse. Witnessing this squadron burning up the sky was a pleasure. Capturing them at the end of the Legacy Hornet era was an honor.
Rivers 4 & 5 in Formation
Rivers 4 & 5 of VFA-204 are captured in a tight formation, poised and ready to break. This photograph perfectly encapsulates the precision and anticipation of the River Rattlers in action.
Mardi Gras “Speed Brake”
River 1 CO of VFA-204 showcases the Legacy speed brake adorned in a unique New Orleans Mardi Gras livery, distinctively representing The River Rattlers.
River 1 on the Take-Off Roll!
River 1 CO of VFA-204 captures the excitement and power of the take-off roll, showcasing the prowess of the River Rattlers in their Legacy Hornet. This dynamic moment exemplifies the squadron’s dedication and skill.
“River 4” Break Now!
Captured in a dynamic moment, "River 4" of VFA-204 prepares to execute a carrier break. This thrilling snapshot encapsulates the agility and precision of the River Rattlers in action, showcasing their expert control and dedication.
VFA-204 Diamond Formation Flyby
The VFA-204 River Rattlers perform a stunning diamond formation flyby, inbound to show center. This captivating moment highlights the precision and teamwork of the River Rattlers as they execute this impressive maneuver.
VFA-204 Diamond Tailhook Pass
The VFA-204 River Rattlers perform an impressive diamond formation tailhook down pass, symbolizing the essence of Naval Aviation and their proud heritage. Since the early 20th century, when the Navy first took to the skies with the Curtiss A-1 Triad, naval aviation has been a cornerstone of U.S. military strategy, showcasing innovation, precision, and dedication.
CDR. Borya “Borat” Celentano’s High-Speed Pass
On Sunday, CDR. Borya “Borat” Celentano of the VFA-204 River Rattlers executes a high-speed pass, showcasing the impressive top-side of “River 1.” This thrilling maneuver exemplifies the skill and precision of naval aviation, honoring the storied history of the U.S. Navy's airborne legacy.
CDR. Borya “Borat” Celentano’s High-Speed Pass
On Sunday, CDR. Borya “Borat” Celentano of the VFA-204 River Rattlers performs a high-speed pass, showcasing the impressive top-side of “River 1.” This thrilling maneuver exemplifies the skill and precision of naval aviation, honoring the storied history of the U.S. Navy's airborne legacy.
CDR Ryan “Slappy” McLaughlin Landing
CDR Ryan "Slappy" McLaughlin is a US Navy CO of VFA-204 "River Rattlers" from home base NAS Joint Reserve Base New Orleans. This photo was taken just before he landed at NAS Pensacola Sherman Field on June 19, 2019. This landing marked one of "Slappy's" final deployments.
Legacy Hornet Showcased
"River 411," a Legacy Hornet from VFA-204, makes a striking appearance during a Blue Angels practice session on June 19, 2019. This moment captures the enduring spirit and dedication of the River Rattlers, illustrating the formidable presence of the Legacy Hornet in naval aviation history.