About this Unit
Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 321 (VMFA-321), known as the “Hell’s Angels,” was a reserve squadron of the United States Marine Corps. Originally activated in 1943 during World War II as VMF-321, the squadron flew the F4U Corsair in the Pacific Theater. After deactivation post-war, it was reactivated as a Marine Reserve unit and later transitioned to flying jet aircraft, including the F-8 Crusader and F-4 Phantom II, before ultimately operating the F/A-18 Hornet. VMFA-321 was based at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland until its deactivation in 2004, marking over 60 years of service.
Historical Facts
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Origins and Activation: VMFA-321, originally designated as VMF-321, was activated on 1 February 1943 at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, as part of the World War II effort.
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World War II Service: The squadron flew the F4U Corsair and saw significant action in the Pacific Theater, including operations from the Marshall Islands and the Philippines.
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Nickname – “Hell’s Angels”: VMFA-321 adopted the nickname “Hell’s Angels,” a moniker that reflects its aggressive combat reputation and esprit de corps.
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Deactivation and Reactivation: The unit was deactivated after WWII in January 1946, but was quickly reactivated in July 1946 at Naval Air Station Anacostia, Washington, D.C., as part of the Marine Air Reserve.
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First Marine Reserve Jet Squadron: In 1954, VMFA-321 became the first Marine Reserve squadron to receive jet aircraft, transitioning to the F9F Panther.
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Cuban Missile Crisis: During the Cuban Missile Crisis in October 1962, VMFA-321 was called to active duty and deployed to Naval Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, in support of potential operations.
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Aircraft Evolution: Over its history, the squadron operated a range of aircraft, including the F6F Hellcat, F4U Corsair, F9F Panther, F-8 Crusader, F-4 Phantom II, and ultimately the F/A-18 Hornet.
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Washington, D.C. Ties: VMFA-321 was long based at Naval Air Facility Washington (Andrews AFB), making it the only Marine fighter squadron in the National Capital Region for decades.
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Major Deployments and Exercises: The squadron participated in numerous NATO exercises and joint operations, flying missions in Europe and the Caribbean, and supporting various Marine and Navy training initiatives.
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Deactivation in 2004: VMFA-321 was officially deactivated on 11 September 2004, ending over 60 years of distinguished service—its legacy lives on in Marine Corps aviation history.
