About this Unit
Marine All-Weather Attack Squadron 242 (VMA(AW)-242), known as the "Bats," was originally commissioned in 1943 as VMFA-242 during World War II, flying the F4U Corsair. The squadron was re-designated multiple times, eventually becoming VMA(AW)-242 and transitioning to the A-6 Intruder, specializing in all-weather attack missions. During the Vietnam War, VMA(AW)-242 conducted extensive combat operations, providing close air support and interdiction missions. The squadron continued its legacy of operational excellence through the Cold War era until its deactivation in 1990, later reactivating as a fighter attack squadron.
Historical Facts
• Origins in WWII: The squadron’s roots trace back to VMFA-242, commissioned on July 1, 1943, as Marine Torpedo Bombing Squadron 242 (VMTB-242) during WWII, flying TBM Avengers in the Pacific.
• Vietnam War Service: Redesignated as VMA(AW)-242, the unit saw extensive combat during the Vietnam War, flying the A-6A Intruder in all-weather attack missions from Da Nang Air Base starting in 1970.
• Nickname "Bats": The squadron’s nickname, "Bats," comes from their all-weather, night-attack role, symbolized by their bat-themed insignia.
• First A-6 Intruder Deployment: VMA(AW)-242 was one of the first Marine units to operate the A-6A Intruder, a state-of-the-art all-weather attack aircraft at the time.
• Distinguished Unit Citations: The squadron earned numerous awards for its service in Vietnam, including the Navy Unit Commendation and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm.
• Humanitarian Missions: In addition to combat, VMA(AW)-242 participated in humanitarian missions, such as disaster relief operations in Asia and the Pacific region.
• Move to Japan: The squadron relocated to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, in 1990, enhancing the USMC’s forward-deployed capabilities in the Pacific.
• Transition to F/A-18D Hornet: After retiring the A-6E Intruder in 1990, VMA(AW)-242 transitioned to the F/A-18D Hornet and was redesignated as VMFA(AW)-242, continuing its all-weather attack mission.
• Global War on Terrorism: "Bats" participated in Operations Southern Watch, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, supporting coalition ground forces with precision strikes.
• Modern Era and F-35B Transition: In 2020, the squadron began converting to the advanced F-35B Lightning II, becoming VMFA-242, one of the first forward-deployed USMC squadrons to operate the stealth fighter in the Pacific.
