VMA-142

Marine Attack Squadron 142 (VMA-142), known as the "Flying Gators," was a United States Marine Corps Reserve attack squadron established in 1942. Originally activated as Marine Scout Bombing Squadron 142 (VMSB-142) during World War II, it saw action in the Pacific Theater before being deactivated after the war. The squadron was reactivated in the postwar era as part of the Marine Air Reserve, eventually transitioning to the A-4 Skyhawk attack aircraft and redesignated as VMA-142. Based primarily at Naval Air Station Jacksonville and later NAS Key West, the squadron provided close air support and attack capabilities until its deactivation in 1990 as part of post-Cold War force reductions.