Navy Unveils 2024 Army-Navy Uniform Honoring the Jolly Rogers
Navy Football unveiled the 2024 Army-Navy game uniform, paying tribute to the legendary Jolly Rogers squadron of Naval Aviation. The Midshipmen will debut the striking design during the 125th Army-Navy Game on December 14, at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland.
The Jolly Rogers, established in 1943, are celebrated as the most lethal and storied squadron in Naval Aviation history. Renowned for their Skull and Crossbones insignia, known worldwide, the squadron symbolizes precision, professionalism, and fearlessness. Their tagline, Fear the Bones, and callsign, Victory, underscore a legacy that spans decades. Since their inception, the Jolly Rogers have flown nine types of fighter aircraft, starting with the F4U Corsair during World War II and continuing to today’s F/A-18F Super Hornet. Their accomplishments include over 150 kills in WWII, groundbreaking night operations during Vietnam, and critical missions in support of Operation Enduring Freedomand Operation Iraqi Freedom. The squadron has set records and continues to embody the traditions of Naval excellence.
The 2024 uniform is a masterful tribute to the Jolly Rogers, integrating elements inspired by their aircraft and storied history. The dark navy hues reflect the iconic color of the squadron’s planes, while the neck design prominently features the Skull and Crossbones insignia, echoing the squadron’s tail fin. The collar striping mirrors the classic markings found on their aircraft, and the Navy wordmark and numbers draw inspiration from the aircraft side markings and fuselage identifiers. Sleeves and pants feature angled chevrons, with nine on each side to symbolize the nine aircraft flown throughout the squadron’s history. Inside the collar, the phrase "Fear the Bones" serves as a reminder of the squadron’s indomitable spirit, and the locker tag design honors the VF-84 tail fin with a distinctive “JR” composition. The side panels of the pants include microtext that pays homage to the six Jolly Rogers squadrons that have upheld the Skull and Crossbones legacy.
The helmet is a culmination of past and present aviator helmet designs, blending tradition with innovation. It prominently displays the Skull and Crossbones on the sides, with chevrons integrated into the striping to reflect the squadron's aircraft history. A reflective white base coat mirrors the appearance of the VFA-103 aviator helmets used today. The iconic tagline "Fear the Bones" is emblazoned on the bumper, completing the homage to the squadron's rich heritage.
This is not the first time the Navy football team has honored the Jolly Rogers. In 1962, Roger Staubach and the Midshipmen donned Jolly Rogers-inspired helmets in a resounding 34-14 victory over Army at Philadelphia's Municipal Stadium. This year’s uniform once again highlights the deep connection between Navy football and the traditions of Naval Aviation.
As the Midshipmen take the field on December 14, they will carry with them a uniform that embodies the legacy of the most feared and respected squadron in Naval history. The Army-Navy game has always been a showcase of pride, service, and tradition, and this year’s design further elevates the significance of this storied rivalry. Fans can witness history in the making as Navy honors the Jolly Rogers while battling Army for gridiron supremacy.
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