About this Unit
Marine Attack Squadron 533 (VMA-533), known as the "Hawks," was originally commissioned during World War II in 1943 as Marine Scout Bombing Squadron 533 (VMSB-533). The squadron distinguished itself in the Pacific Theater, notably participating in the Battle of Okinawa. Postwar, the unit transitioned through various aircraft and missions, eventually becoming a jet attack squadron and adopting the A-6 Intruder and later the AV-8B Harrier II. VMA-533 served with distinction in multiple conflicts, including the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm, before being deactivated in 2007.
Historical Facts
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World War II Origins: VMA-533 was originally commissioned as Marine Bombing Squadron 533 (VMB-533) on 1 October 1943, flying PBJ-1 (the Marine version of the B-25 Mitchell) during World War II.
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Nickname "Hawks": The squadron is famously known as the "Hawks," a moniker that has persisted through multiple aircraft and mission changes.
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Night Harassment Missions: During World War II, VMB-533 specialized in night harassment bombing missions against Japanese positions in the Central Pacific, including operations from Eniwetok and Kwajalein.
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Korean War Reactivation: The squadron was deactivated post-WWII but reactivated for the Korean War, transitioning to jet aircraft and later to the A-4 Skyhawk attack jet.
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Vietnam War Service: VMA-533 deployed to Chu Lai Air Base in Vietnam in 1967, where it flew the A-6A Intruder, providing all-weather attack capabilities for the Marine Corps.
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First Marine Squadron with A-6A Intruders: VMA-533 became the first Marine Corps squadron to operate the A-6A Intruder, a cutting-edge all-weather attack aircraft at the time.
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Distinguished Unit Citation: The squadron earned multiple awards for valor and distinguished service, including the Navy Unit Commendation and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry.
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Operation Desert Storm: VMA-533 participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, flying AV-8B Harrier II aircraft and providing close air support for coalition ground forces.
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Aircraft Transitions: Over its history, the unit has flown a wide array of aircraft, including the PBJ-1, A-4 Skyhawk, A-6 Intruder, and AV-8B Harrier II, showcasing its adaptability.
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Legacy and Deactivation: VMA-533 was deactivated in July 2020 after decades of distinguished service, marking the end of an era for one of the Marine Corps’ most storied attack squadrons.
