VMA-542

• Establishment: Marine Attack Squadron 542 (VMA-542) was originally commissioned as Marine Night Fighter Squadron 542 (VMF(N)-542) on March 6, 1944, at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina. • World War II Service: The squadron flew the F6F-5N Hellcat night fighter in the Pacific Theater, participating in the Battle of Okinawa, providing night air defense and attacking Japanese ground positions. • Ace Pilots: During World War II, VMF(N)-542 produced several ace pilots, including Major Robert Baird, who became one of the top-scoring Marine night fighter aces. • Korean War: Reactivated for the Korean War, the squadron flew the F7F Tigercat and later the F3D Skyknight, conducting night interdiction and escort missions. • Transition to Attack Role: In 1957, the squadron was redesignated as VMA-542 and transitioned to the attack mission, flying the A4D Skyhawk. • Vietnam War: VMA-542 deployed to Vietnam, operating from Chu Lai Air Base and providing close air support with the A-6A Intruder, playing a key role in supporting ground forces. • Harrier Era: In the 1980s, VMA-542 transitioned to the AV-8B Harrier II, becoming a vertical/short takeoff and landing (V/STOL) attack squadron. • Operation Desert Storm: The squadron deployed to the Persian Gulf in 1991, flying combat sorties in support of coalition forces during Operation Desert Storm. • Nickname: VMA-542 is nicknamed the "Tigers," and their insignia features a tiger's head, symbolizing aggressiveness and combat prowess. • Recent History: In 2022, VMA-542 began transitioning to the F-35B Lightning II, marking the end of their long service flying the Harrier and a new era as an advanced stealth strike fighter squadron, redesignated as VMFA-542.