VMFAT-201

VMFAT-201, known as "The Griffins," was a United States Marine Corps Fleet Replacement Squadron established in the late 1960s to train aviators in the F-4 Phantom II. Based at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, the unit played a crucial role in preparing Marine pilots for operational deployment during the Vietnam War and the Cold War era. VMFAT-201 maintained a high standard of instruction, ensuring new pilots were proficient in both air-to-air and air-to-ground tactics. The squadron was eventually deactivated as the Marine Corps transitioned to newer aircraft platforms and consolidated training operations.