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VMA-311

U.S. Marine Corps•19 members

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About this Unit

VMA-311

U.S. Marine Corps

Marine Attack Squadron 311 (VMA-311), known as the “Tomcats,” was originally commissioned in 1942 as Marine Scout Bombing Squadron 311 (VMSB-311) and served with distinction during World War II in the Pacific Theater. The squadron transitioned through various aircraft, including the F9F Panther and A-4 Skyhawk, participating in the Korean and Vietnam Wars, where it conducted close air support and attack missions. VMA-311 was renowned for being the first Marine squadron to shoot down a MiG jet in combat during the Korean War. The squadron continued its legacy into the 21st century, supporting operations in Iraq and Afghanistan before being deactivated in 2022 as the Marine Corps modernized its aviation assets.

About VMA-311

About this Unit

Historical Facts

VMA-311's Nickname: The squadron is famously known as the "Tomcats," a moniker it carried throughout much of its operational history.
World War II Origins: VMA-311 traces its roots back to World War II, being originally commissioned as Marine Scout Bombing Squadron 311 (VMSB-311) on December 1, 1942.
Korean War Pioneers: The unit became the first Marine squadron to fly jets in combat, operating the F9F Panther during the Korean War.
Historic Jet Attack: On December 10, 1950, VMA-311 executed the first Marine jet attack against enemy forces during the Korean War.
Vietnam War Service: VMA-311 played a critical role in the Vietnam War, flying over 54,000 combat sorties and dropping more ordnance than any other Marine attack squadron.
Aircraft Evolution: Over the decades, the squadron operated a variety of aircraft, including the SBD Dauntless, F4U Corsair, F9F Panther, A4 Skyhawk, and AV-8B Harrier II.
Harrier Operations: VMA-311 was one of the first Marine squadrons to transition to the AV-8B Harrier II, capable of vertical/short takeoff and landing (V/STOL).
Desert Storm Actions: During Operation Desert Storm in 1991, VMA-311 flew over 1,100 combat sorties and was awarded the Navy Unit Commendation for its performance.
Decorations and Honors: The squadron has received numerous awards, including the Presidential Unit Citation, the Navy Unit Commendation, and the Meritorious Unit Commendation.
Deactivation and Legacy: VMA-311 was deactivated on October 15, 2020, at MCAS Yuma, Arizona, but its lineage is set to continue as a future F-35 squadron, VMFA-311.

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VMA-311

U.S. Marine Corps•19 members

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About this Unit

VMA-311

U.S. Marine Corps

Unit members

Stephen Marsh

U.S. Marine Corps Veteran · 1982 - 1985

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Ernie Stokes

U.S. Marine Corps · 1974 - 1994

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Paul Ruppert

U.S. Marine Corps · 1971 - 1975

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Art Regan

U.S. Marine Corps Veteran · 1973 - 1974

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Marine Corps photos

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About VMA-311

About this Unit

Historical Facts

VMA-311's Nickname: The squadron is famously known as the "Tomcats," a moniker it carried throughout much of its operational history.
World War II Origins: VMA-311 traces its roots back to World War II, being originally commissioned as Marine Scout Bombing Squadron 311 (VMSB-311) on December 1, 1942.
Korean War Pioneers: The unit became the first Marine squadron to fly jets in combat, operating the F9F Panther during the Korean War.
Historic Jet Attack: On December 10, 1950, VMA-311 executed the first Marine jet attack against enemy forces during the Korean War.
Vietnam War Service: VMA-311 played a critical role in the Vietnam War, flying over 54,000 combat sorties and dropping more ordnance than any other Marine attack squadron.
Aircraft Evolution: Over the decades, the squadron operated a variety of aircraft, including the SBD Dauntless, F4U Corsair, F9F Panther, A4 Skyhawk, and AV-8B Harrier II.
Harrier Operations: VMA-311 was one of the first Marine squadrons to transition to the AV-8B Harrier II, capable of vertical/short takeoff and landing (V/STOL).
Desert Storm Actions: During Operation Desert Storm in 1991, VMA-311 flew over 1,100 combat sorties and was awarded the Navy Unit Commendation for its performance.
Decorations and Honors: The squadron has received numerous awards, including the Presidential Unit Citation, the Navy Unit Commendation, and the Meritorious Unit Commendation.
Deactivation and Legacy: VMA-311 was deactivated on October 15, 2020, at MCAS Yuma, Arizona, but its lineage is set to continue as a future F-35 squadron, VMFA-311.