VMFA-122

• Oldest Marine Corps Fighter Squadron: VMFA-122, originally established as VF-4 on March 1, 1942, is one of the oldest active Marine fighter squadrons. • Nickname "The Flying Leathernecks": The squadron earned the famous nickname "The Flying Leathernecks," which later became the title of a John Wayne movie. • Historic WWII Service: VMFA-122 saw significant action in World War II, participating in the Battle of Guadalcanal and earning a Presidential Unit Citation. • First Marine Jet Squadron: In 1947, VMFA-122 became the first Marine squadron to transition to jet aircraft, flying the FH-1 Phantom. • Famed "Death From Above" Insignia: VMFA-122’s original insignia, featuring a skull with crossbones and the motto "Death From Above," is one of the most recognizable squadron patches. • Korean War Reactivation: The squadron was deactivated after World War II but reactivated for the Korean War, flying the F2H Banshee. • Vietnam War Deployments: VMFA-122 flew F-4 Phantoms in Vietnam, participating in multiple combat deployments and supporting ground forces. • Transition to F/A-18 Hornet: In 1986, VMFA-122 became one of the first Marine squadrons to receive the F/A-18A Hornet, marking a new era in its operational history. • First to Deploy F-35B: In 2018, VMFA-122 became the first Marine squadron to transition from the F/A-18 Hornet directly to the F-35B Lightning II. • Notable Alumni: Medal of Honor recipient Captain Joe Foss, a top ace during WWII, once commanded VMFA-122 and led it to distinguished combat success.