In November 2000 VS-22 and "CVW-3" embarked on USS "Harry S. Truman"'s maiden deployment. On 16 February 2001, CVW-3 participated in strikes against Iraq as a part of Operation Southern Watch. The "Checkmates" deployed for a second time with the "Truman" in December 2002, this time participating in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, launching missions from the Eastern Mediterranean. October 2004 saw VS-22 deploying with CVW-3 and "Harry S. Truman" for the last time. VS-22 flew 1170 sorties and 3220 hours in support of "Operation Iraqi Freedom", patrolling the oil infrastructure in the Persian Gulf during "Operation Sea Dragon II" missions.