VMF311

• Origin: Marine Fighter Squadron 311 (VMF-311), also known as the "Tomcats," was commissioned on December 1, 1942, at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina. • World War II Service: VMF-311 participated in the Pacific Theater during World War II, flying the F4U Corsair and supporting operations in the Philippines and Okinawa. • Korean War Firsts: VMF-311 became the first Marine jet squadron to see combat, flying the F9F Panther during the Korean War, and was the first Marine squadron to shoot down a MiG jet. • Distinguished Pilot: Medal of Honor recipient Captain Ted Williams, famed baseball player, served in VMF-311 during the Korean War. • Nickname Change: The squadron's nickname, "Tomcats," came into use after World War II, reflecting the aggressive and determined spirit of the unit. • First to Fly Harrier: In 1988, VMF(AW)-311 became the first Marine Corps squadron to transition to the AV-8B Harrier II, a vertical/short takeoff and landing (V/STOL) aircraft. • Vietnam Combat: Redesignated as VMA-311, the squadron flew the A-4 Skyhawk and conducted more than 54,000 combat sorties during the Vietnam War, earning the nickname "The Death Angels." • Gulf War Service: VMA-311 played a significant role during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, flying nearly 1,200 sorties and providing close air support to coalition forces. • Unit Awards: The squadron has received numerous unit citations, including Presidential Unit Citations and Navy Unit Commendations, reflecting its long history of distinguished service. • Recent Status: In 2020, as part of the Marine Corps' Force Design 2030 initiative, VMA-311 was deactivated, with plans to reactivate in the future as a next-generation F-35B Lightning II squadron.