About this Unit
Marine All Weather Attack Squadron 225 (VMA(AW)-225), known as the “Vikings,” was activated during World War II as VMSB-225 and later redesignated several times as its mission evolved. The squadron played a significant role in the Pacific Theater, conducting dive-bombing and close air support missions. Reactivated during the Vietnam War as VMA(AW)-225, the unit flew the A-6 Intruder, providing all-weather, day and night attack capabilities against enemy targets. The squadron was eventually deactivated in 1993, leaving behind a legacy of combat excellence and versatility in Marine Corps aviation history.
Historical Facts
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Origins: Marine All Weather Attack Squadron 225 (VMA(AW)-225), known as the "Vikings," was originally commissioned as VMF-225 on January 1, 1943, at Marine Corps Air Station Mojave, California.
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World War II Service: The squadron served in the Pacific Theater during World War II, operating F4U Corsair fighters and participating in campaigns such as Bougainville.
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Redesignation: Over time, the squadron underwent several redesignations, becoming VMA-225 and later VMA(AW)-225 to reflect its changing mission and aircraft, including the transition to all-weather attack roles.
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A-6 Intruder Era: In the 1960s, the squadron transitioned to the A-6A Intruder, a twin-jet all-weather attack aircraft, which would become its signature platform for decades.
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Vietnam War Deployments: VMA(AW)-225 deployed to Vietnam and operated from Da Nang Air Base, flying close air support, interdiction, and night attack missions in support of U.S. and allied forces.
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Nickname "Vikings": The squadron was known as the "Vikings," symbolizing strength and tenacity, and their insignia featured a Viking warrior wielding an axe.
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Notable Missions: The squadron was credited with flying thousands of combat sorties during the Vietnam War, often under heavy enemy fire and adverse weather conditions.
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Distinguished Unit Awards: VMA(AW)-225 earned numerous unit citations and commendations for its performance in combat, including the Navy Unit Commendation.
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Deactivation: The squadron was deactivated on June 28, 1993, at MCAS El Toro, California, as part of post-Cold War military restructuring and the retirement of the A-6 Intruder from Marine Corps service.
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Legacy: Despite its deactivation, VMA(AW)-225 is remembered for its distinguished service and for embodying the Marine Corps' ethos of "anytime, anywhere" all-weather attack capability.
