About this Unit
Marine Attack Squadron 133 (VMA-133), known as the “Dragons,” was a reserve attack squadron of the United States Marine Corps. Originally commissioned during World War II as VMSB-133 in 1943, the squadron flew the SBD Dauntless in the Pacific Theater, providing dive-bomber support in campaigns such as Bougainville and the Philippines. The unit was deactivated after the war but reactivated in 1958 as a Marine Reserve attack squadron, flying the A-4 Skyhawk from NAS Alameda, California. VMA-133 remained active until it was deactivated in 1992 as part of post-Cold War force reductions.
Historical Facts
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Squadron Nickname: VMA-133 was known as the "Dragons," a name that reflected the squadron's fighting spirit and was symbolized in their distinctive squadron insignia.
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Establishment Date: Marine Attack Squadron 133 (VMA-133) was originally established on 1 April 1943, during World War II, as VMSB-133 (Marine Scout Bombing Squadron 133).
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World War II Service: As VMSB-133, the unit saw active combat in the Solomon Islands campaign, providing critical dive-bombing support for Allied operations in the Pacific Theater.
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Aircraft Flown: During its operational history, the squadron flew several aircraft types, including the SBD Dauntless during World War II and later the A-4 Skyhawk in the postwar era as a Marine Attack Squadron.
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Redesignation: The squadron was redesignated as VMA-133 in 1962, shifting its mission to attack roles and transitioning to the A-4 Skyhawk.
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Reserve Unit: After World War II, VMA-133 was reactivated as a reserve unit, based at Naval Air Station Alameda, California, and later at Naval Air Station Santa Rosa.
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Cold War Role: During the Cold War, VMA-133 contributed to the Marine Corps’ readiness by participating in annual training exercises and providing a pool of trained aviators in case of national emergency.
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Unit Deactivation: VMA-133 was deactivated in 1992 as part of a post-Cold War drawdown, marking the end of its nearly 50 years of service.
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Squadron Motto: The squadron’s unofficial motto was “Ready Dragons,” a phrase that encapsulated their readiness and combat effectiveness.
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Legacy and Honors: Over its history, VMA-133 earned numerous commendations for its performance in both combat and peacetime operations, leaving a legacy of excellence in Marine Corps aviation history.
