VMA-231

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.