VMFA-251

• Historic Origins: VMFA-251, also known as the "Thunderbolts," traces its lineage back to December 1, 1941, when it was originally commissioned as Marine Observation Squadron 251 (VMO-251) just days before the attack on Pearl Harbor. • World War II Service: The squadron flew the Grumman F4F Wildcat in the Pacific Theater, participating in major campaigns including the Battle of Guadalcanal, where it provided vital air support for ground forces. • Carrier Operations: During World War II, VMFA-251 became one of the first Marine squadrons to operate from aircraft carriers, enhancing the Marine Corps' ability to project power from the sea. • Nickname "Thunderbolts": The squadron adopted the "Thunderbolts" nickname and its distinctive lightning bolt insignia in the postwar era, symbolizing speed and striking power. • Multiple Aircraft Transitions: VMFA-251 has operated a wide variety of aircraft, including the F4F Wildcat, F4U Corsair, F9F Panther, FJ Fury, F8 Crusader, F-4 Phantom II, and most recently, the F/A-18 Hornet. • Cold War Deployments: Throughout the Cold War, the squadron was deployed aboard aircraft carriers and conducted numerous operations in the Mediterranean and Atlantic, showcasing the Marines' global reach. • Operation Desert Storm: VMFA-251 played a key role in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, flying combat sorties in support of coalition forces during the liberation of Kuwait. • Forward Deployment: The squadron has frequently deployed as part of Carrier Air Wing One (CVW-1) aboard the USS America (CV-66) and USS Enterprise (CVN-65), supporting operations in the Balkans and Middle East. • Global War on Terror: VMFA-251 participated in both Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, flying missions over Afghanistan and Iraq in support of U.S. and coalition ground forces. • Deactivation and Legacy: In April 2023, VMFA-251 was deactivated after more than 80 years of service, marking the end of an era but leaving a proud legacy as one of the Marine Corps' most storied fighter squadrons.