VMFA-321

• 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. • 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. • Nickname – “Hell’s Angels”: VMFA-321 adopted the nickname “Hell’s Angels,” a moniker that reflects its aggressive combat reputation and esprit de corps. • 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. • First Marine Reserve Jet Squadron: In 1954, VMFA-321 became the first Marine Reserve squadron to receive jet aircraft, transitioning to the F9F Panther. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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.