About this Unit
Marine Attack Squadron 124 (VMA-124), originally designated VMF-124, was a United States Marine Corps fighter squadron formed during World War II. Activated on September 2, 1942, at Camp Kearny, California, it became the first Marine squadron to fly the F4U Corsair in combat. VMF-124 distinguished itself in the Solomon Islands campaign, notably participating in the Battle of Guadalcanal and later operations in the South Pacific. After the war, the squadron transitioned to the Marine Corps Reserve and eventually redesignated as VMA-124, operating attack aircraft until its deactivation in 1999.
Historical Facts
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Established During World War II: Marine Attack Squadron 124 (VMA-124), originally designated as VMF-124, was commissioned on September 7, 1942, at Camp Kearny, San Diego, California.
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First Marine F4U Corsair Squadron: VMF-124 was the first Marine Corps squadron to receive and operate the legendary Vought F4U Corsair fighter aircraft.
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Pioneers in Combat: The squadron became the first Marine unit to fly the Corsair in combat, with their initial deployment to Guadalcanal in February 1943.
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Ace Pilots: VMF-124 produced several flying aces, including Medal of Honor recipient Major Gregory "Pappy" Boyington, who later led the famous "Black Sheep" squadron (VMF-214).
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Record-Setting Missions: During World War II, pilots of VMF-124 achieved an impressive combat record, claiming over 78 enemy aircraft shot down in the Pacific Theater.
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Historic Carrier Operations: VMF-124, alongside VMF-213, became one of the first Marine squadrons to operate from aircraft carriers, flying missions from the USS Essex (CV-9) in 1945.
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Reserve Reactivation: After World War II, VMF-124 was deactivated and later reactivated as a Marine Air Reserve squadron, transitioning to the F4U-4B Corsair, then later to the A-4 Skyhawk and AV-8A Harrier.
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Redesignation as VMA-124: The squadron was redesignated as VMA-124 in 1952, reflecting its shift from fighter to attack squadron roles.
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Distinctive Insignia: VMA-124's insignia featured a bulldog piloting a Corsair, symbolizing the squadron's tenacious spirit and its celebrated association with the F4U.
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Final Deactivation: The squadron was ultimately deactivated in the 1990s as part of post-Cold War military restructuring, bringing an end to nearly 50 years of distinguished service.
