VMFA (AW)-533

• Origins in World War II: VMFA(AW)-533, originally commissioned as Marine Night Fighter Squadron 533 (VMF(N)-533) on October 1, 1943, was one of the first dedicated night fighter squadrons in the Marine Corps. • Nickname "Hawks": The squadron is famously known as the "Hawks," a moniker recognized throughout Marine aviation history. • First Night Fighter Success: VMF(N)-533 became the first Marine night fighter squadron to down an enemy aircraft at night, achieving this feat in the Pacific Theater during World War II. • Pioneering Radar Operations: The unit was at the forefront of integrating airborne radar technology, which was vital for their night-fighting missions in the 1940s. • Korean War Service: Although not deployed as a unit to Korea, many personnel and lessons from VMF(N)-533’s night fighting experience influenced Marine Corps operations during the Korean War. • Vietnam War Deployments: Redesignated as VMA(AW)-533, the squadron flew the A-6A Intruder in Vietnam, conducting all-weather attack missions and earning several unit commendations. • Aircraft Evolution: Over its history, the squadron has operated several aircraft types, including the F6F Hellcat, F7F Tigercat, F3D Skyknight, A-6 Intruder, and the F/A-18D Hornet. • Operation Desert Storm: The Hawks participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, flying combat sorties in support of coalition forces during the liberation of Kuwait. • Global War on Terror: VMFA(AW)-533 has deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, providing close air support and precision strikes. • Deactivation and Legacy: The squadron was deactivated in 2023 as part of the Marine Corps' Force Design 2030 modernization effort, but its legacy in Marine aviation endures.