About this Unit
Marine Bombing Squadron 443 (VMB-443) was a United States Marine Corps medium bomber squadron activated during World War II. Formed in 1943, the squadron was equipped with PBJ-1, the naval version of the B-25 Mitchell bomber. VMB-443 deployed to the Pacific Theater, where it conducted bombing, strafing, and anti-shipping missions in support of Allied operations in the Solomon Islands and the Philippines. The squadron was deactivated in 1945 following the end of the war, having played a vital role in the Marine Corps' aerial campaign against Japanese forces.
Historical Facts
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Marine Bombing Squadron 443 (VMB-443) was a United States Marine Corps squadron established during World War II, known for flying the PBJ-1 Mitchell medium bomber (the USMC version of the B-25).
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Establishment: VMB-443 was commissioned on September 1, 1943, at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina.
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Nicknamed "The Rocket Raiders": The squadron earned the nickname due to its use of rockets on anti-shipping and ground attack missions in the Pacific theater.
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Deployment to the Pacific: In early 1944, the squadron deployed to the Solomon Islands, operating from airfields such as Green Island and Emirau to support the Allied island-hopping campaign.
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Combat Missions: VMB-443 conducted bombing, strafing, and anti-shipping missions against Japanese targets in the Bismarck Archipelago, New Guinea, and the Philippines.
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Innovative Tactics: The squadron was among the first to use the PBJ-1 in close air support roles for Marine ground forces, adapting medium bombers to fit the evolving needs of the Pacific war.
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Radar Bombing: VMB-443 utilized airborne radar for night bombing and navigation, which was a significant technological advancement for the era.
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Distinguished Personnel: Several squadron members were decorated for bravery, including awards for successful low-level attacks on enemy shipping and installations.
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Disbandment: After the end of World War II, VMB-443 returned to the United States and was decommissioned on November 17, 1945.
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Legacy: Although only active for a short period, VMB-443 contributed to the development of Marine Corps medium bomber tactics and left a legacy of innovation and bravery in the Pacific theater.
