VMFA-323

• Oldest Active Marine Fighter Attack Squadron: VMFA-323 "Death Rattlers" was commissioned on August 1, 1943, making it one of the oldest active Marine fighter squadrons. • Origins of the "Death Rattlers" Name: The squadron earned its nickname after a pilot killed a rattlesnake on the runway during its formation at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina. • World War II Combat Debut: VMFA-323 first saw action in the Battle of Okinawa, where its pilots claimed 124 Japanese aircraft shot down with no losses in aerial combat. • Korean War Service: The squadron flew F4U Corsairs in Korea, conducting close air support for UN forces and participating in key battles such as Inchon and the Chosin Reservoir. • Transition to Jets: VMFA-323 transitioned to jet aircraft in the 1950s, flying F9F Panthers and later the FJ Fury, becoming one of the first Marine squadrons to operate jets. • Vietnam War Participation: The Death Rattlers flew F-4 Phantoms in Vietnam, conducting ground attack, close air support, and combat air patrol missions from both land bases and aircraft carriers. • Gulf War Operations: VMFA-323 participated in Operation Desert Storm, flying F/A-18 Hornets and delivering precision-guided munitions against Iraqi targets. • Carrier Deployments: Unlike most Marine squadrons, VMFA-323 has a long history of deploying aboard U.S. Navy aircraft carriers, integrating with carrier air wings for global missions. • Distinctive Insignia: The squadron's insignia features a coiled rattlesnake ready to strike, symbolizing their aggressive spirit and combat readiness. • Modern Era Operations: VMFA-323 continues to fly the F/A-18 Hornet and has supported Operations Southern Watch, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom, maintaining a reputation for excellence and adaptability.