Donald Perkins

Marine Attack Squadron 223 (VMA-223), known as the “Bulldogs,” was originally commissioned on May 1, 1942, during World War II. The squadron distinguished itself in the Pacific Theater, notably participating in the Battle of Guadalcanal as one of the first Marine aviation units to operate from Henderson Field. Over the decades, VMA-223 transitioned through various aircraft, from the F4F Wildcat to the A-4 Skyhawk, and ultimately to the AV-8B Harrier II, specializing in close air support. The Bulldogs have served in numerous conflicts and remain an integral part of Marine Corps aviation, stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina.

Marine Attack Squadron 231 (VMA-231), nicknamed the "Ace of Spades," is one of the oldest squadrons in the United States Marine Corps, originally formed in 1919 as the 1st Division, Squadron 1. The squadron saw combat in Nicaragua during the late 1920s and later participated in World War II, providing close air support in the Pacific Theater. Over the decades, VMA-231 has operated a variety of aircraft, transitioning from biplanes to modern AV-8B Harrier II jets. The unit has played a key role in numerous operations, including deployments to the Middle East, and continues to serve as a frontline attack squadron supporting Marine Air-Ground Task Force missions.