About this Unit
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.
Historical Facts
• Oldest Marine Attack Squadron: VMA-231, known as the “Ace of Spades,” traces its lineage back to March 8, 1919, making it the oldest continually active Marine fixed-wing squadron.
• World War I Origins: The squadron began as Squadron D, First Marine Aviation Force, flying missions in France during World War I as bomber and reconnaissance pilots with the Northern Bombing Group.
• “Ace of Spades” Nickname: The unit adopted the “Ace of Spades” motif in World War I, based on their squadron insignia, which remains an iconic symbol to this day.
• First U.S. Military Aircraft Landing in China: In 1927, VMA-231 (then VO-1M) became the first U.S. military aviation unit to operate in China, providing air support and mail delivery during the Chinese Civil War.
• Historic Aircraft: Over the years, VMA-231 has flown a variety of aircraft, including the DH-4, O2B-1, Curtiss F6C-4, Grumman J2F Duck, SBD Dauntless, F4U Corsair, A-4 Skyhawk, and AV-8B Harrier II.
• World War II Service: The squadron participated in key battles in the Pacific, including Guadalcanal, where it provided close air support and conducted bombing missions against Japanese positions.
• Pioneers of the Harrier: VMA-231 was one of the first U.S. Marine squadrons to operate the AV-8A Harrier “jump jet” in 1973, marking a new era of vertical/short takeoff and landing (V/STOL) capability.
• Desert Storm Operations: During Operation Desert Storm in 1991, VMA-231 flew combat missions from the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau, marking the first time Harriers operated from a ship in combat.
• Global Deployments: The squadron has participated in numerous operations, including deployments to the Mediterranean, the Persian Gulf, Afghanistan, and Iraq, supporting both combat and humanitarian missions.
• Modernization and Legacy: While currently flying the AV-8B Harrier II, VMA-231 is expected to transition to the advanced F-35B Lightning II, continuing its tradition of adapting to cutting-edge technology and mission requirements.
