The chess piece patch was used from June 12, 1946 until October 19, 1950
1946: VF-18A was assigned the Grumman F8F Bearcat. February 2, 1947 through March 19, 1947: VF-18A flying the Vought F4U-4 Corsair I embarked on United States Ship Randolph CV-15, for its second cruise. This tour was to the Caribbean. Thanks to a4skyhawk.org for the information. Basic shipping included to most countries, allow 4+ weeks before arrival. Additional costs may incur for EURO, South America and African countries.