VMFA-235

• Origins in World War II: VMFA-235 was originally commissioned as Marine Fighter Squadron 235 (VMF-235) on January 1, 1943, at Marine Corps Air Station El Centro, California. • Nickname "Death Angels": The squadron was famously known as the "Death Angels," a moniker that reflected its fighting spirit and aggressive combat reputation. • WWII Combat Debut: VMF-235 participated in World War II, flying the F4U Corsair in the Pacific Theater and supporting campaigns in the Solomon Islands. • Korean War Reserve Activation: Although the squadron was deactivated after WWII, it was reactivated as a reserve unit during the Korean War era, before returning to active status. • First Carrier Deployment: In the late 1950s, VMF-235 made its first carrier deployment aboard the USS Bon Homme Richard, an important milestone as carrier-based Marine squadrons were relatively rare. • Vietnam War Deployments: Redesignated as VMA-235, the squadron flew the A-4 Skyhawk and deployed to Vietnam, operating from Chu Lai Air Base and providing close air support for ground troops. • Transition to F-4 Phantom II: In 1968, the unit became VMFA-235 after transitioning to the F-4 Phantom II, marking its new role as a fighter-attack squadron. • Operation Desert Storm: VMFA-235 deployed to the Persian Gulf in 1990-1991, flying F/A-18 Hornets in combat during Operation Desert Storm and logging numerous sorties against Iraqi targets. • Awards and Honors: The squadron earned multiple unit citations and commendations throughout its history, including the Navy Unit Commendation for actions in Vietnam. • Deactivation in 1996: After more than five decades of service, VMFA-235 was deactivated on June 14, 1996, at Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, ending a storied chapter in Marine Corps aviation history.