VMA-231

• 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.