VMA -311

• Origins in World War II: VMA-311 was originally commissioned as Marine Attack Squadron 311 (VMA-311) on December 1, 1942, as VMF-311, a fighter squadron flying the F4U Corsair. • Korean War Pioneers: VMA-311 became the first Marine squadron to fly the F9F Panther jet in combat and was the first Marine jet squadron to see action during the Korean War. • “Tomcats” Nickname: The squadron has been known as "The Tomcats," a moniker that dates back to their early years and is reflected in their unit insignia. • Vietnam War Contributions: VMA-311 played a vital role in the Vietnam War, flying thousands of combat sorties in A-4 Skyhawks and providing critical close air support for ground forces. • First to Drop Napalm in Korea: The squadron was the first Marine unit to employ napalm in close air support missions during the Korean War. • Notable Aircraft: Over its history, VMA-311 has flown a range of iconic aircraft, including the F4U Corsair, F9F Panther, A-4 Skyhawk, and AV-8B Harrier II. • Operation Iraqi Freedom: In 2003, VMA-311 deployed to Kuwait and conducted combat missions in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, flying the AV-8B Harrier II. • Unit Awards: The squadron has received numerous unit citations, including Presidential Unit Citations and Navy Unit Commendations for their service in Korea, Vietnam, and Iraq. • Historical Firsts: VMA-311 was the first Marine squadron to fly a combat mission with the AV-8B Harrier II during Operation Desert Storm in 1991. • Deactivation and Legacy: VMA-311 was deactivated on October 15, 2020, at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, but its legacy is preserved in Marine Corps aviation history and traditions.