About this Unit
VMFA-531, originally commissioned as Marine Fighter Squadron 531 (VMF-531) in October 1942, was a United States Marine Corps fighter squadron. The unit served throughout World War II, notably participating in Pacific campaigns. Redesignated as VMFA-531 in 1965 to reflect its new role as a Marine Fighter Attack Squadron, the unit became the first operational squadron to fly the F-4B Phantom II. VMFA-531 supported combat operations during the Vietnam War and continued service until its deactivation in 1992.
Historical Facts
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Historic Beginnings: VMFA-531, originally designated as VMF-531, was commissioned on October 1, 1942, at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, during World War II.
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First "Night Fighters": VMFA-531 was the first Marine night fighter squadron, operating the F6F-3N Hellcat equipped with radar for nighttime operations.
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Nickname "Grey Ghosts": The squadron earned the nickname "Grey Ghosts" due to their night operations and stealthy tactics.
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Korean War Service: The squadron did not deploy as a unit in the Korean War but contributed personnel and expertise to other units, supporting night fighting tactics.
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Transition to Jets: In 1953, VMFA-531 became the first Marine Corps squadron to fly jet-powered night fighters, transitioning to the F2H-4 Banshee.
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Vietnam War Deployments: The squadron deployed to Vietnam in 1965, flying F-4B Phantom IIs from Da Nang Air Base, conducting combat missions including close air support and interdiction.
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Aircraft Evolution: Throughout its service, VMFA-531 operated a variety of aircraft including the F6F Hellcat, F7F Tigercat, F2H Banshee, F3D Skyknight, F4D Skyray, and the F-4 Phantom II.
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First to Deploy as a "Unit Deployment Program" (UDP): In 1978, VMFA-531 was the first squadron to deploy to Japan under the newly created Marine Corps UDP.
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Participation in Operation Desert Storm: The squadron, flying F/A-18A Hornets, participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, conducting strike missions against Iraqi targets.
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Deactivation: After nearly 50 years of service, VMFA-531 was deactivated on March 27, 1992, at Marine Corps Air Station El Toro, California.
