About this Unit
Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115 (VMFA-115), known as the "Silver Eagles," was originally commissioned as VMF-115 in July 1943 during World War II, flying the F4U Corsair in the Pacific Theater. The squadron saw significant action in campaigns such as the Battle of Okinawa and later participated in the occupation of China. During the Korean War, VMFA-115 provided close air support and interdiction missions, and in the Vietnam War, the unit operated out of Da Nang, flying the F-4 Phantom II in combat operations. Today, VMFA-115 is based at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, and flies the F/A-18 Hornet, continuing its legacy of excellence in support of Marine Corps operations worldwide.
Historical Facts
•
Origins in World War II: VMFA-115, originally designated as VMF-115, was commissioned on July 1, 1943, at Marine Corps Air Station Santa Barbara, California, and flew the F4U Corsair.
•
Pacific Combat Service: The squadron saw extensive action in the Pacific Theater during World War II, including campaigns in the Marshall Islands, Peleliu, and Okinawa.
•
Nickname "Silver Eagles": VMFA-115 is known as the "Silver Eagles," a moniker adopted in the 1950s which reflects their proud history and service.
•
Korean War Involvement: The squadron was one of the first Marine units to be deployed to Korea, conducting close air support, interdiction, and reconnaissance missions.
•
Transition to Jets: VMFA-115 was among the first Marine squadrons to transition from propeller-driven aircraft to jet aircraft, flying the F9F Panther and later the FJ Fury.
•
Vietnam War Deployments: The squadron flew F-4 Phantom IIs and conducted extensive combat sorties from Da Nang Air Base, providing air support, interdiction, and reconnaissance during the Vietnam War.
•
First Marine F/A-18 Squadron in Japan: In 1985, VMFA-115 became the first Marine Hornet squadron forward deployed to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, enhancing the US presence in the Pacific.
•
Global War on Terror: VMFA-115 has participated in numerous operations in support of the Global War on Terror, including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan.
•
Multiple Aircraft Platforms: Over its history, VMFA-115 has flown a variety of aircraft, including the F4U Corsair, F9F Panther, FJ Fury, F-4 Phantom II, and currently the F/A-18 Hornet.
•
Unit Awards and Decorations: The squadron has earned numerous commendations, including Presidential Unit Citations and Navy Unit Commendations, for their exemplary performance in combat and peacetime operations.
