About this Unit
Marine Attack Squadron 542 (VMA-542), known as the "Tigers," was originally activated during World War II in March 1944 as Marine Torpedo Bombing Squadron 542 (VMTB-542). The squadron flew Grumman TBF Avengers in the Pacific, participating in the Battle of Okinawa and other key operations. After deactivation post-war, it was reactivated several times, eventually transitioning to the A-4 Skyhawk and later the AV-8B Harrier II, specializing in close air support. VMA-542 has deployed in support of operations such as Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom, maintaining a reputation for operational excellence within Marine Corps Aviation.
Historical Facts
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Establishment: Marine Attack Squadron 542 (VMA-542) was originally commissioned as Marine Night Fighter Squadron 542 (VMF(N)-542) on March 6, 1944, at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina.
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World War II Service: The squadron flew the F6F-5N Hellcat night fighter in the Pacific Theater, participating in the Battle of Okinawa, providing night air defense and attacking Japanese ground positions.
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Ace Pilots: During World War II, VMF(N)-542 produced several ace pilots, including Major Robert Baird, who became one of the top-scoring Marine night fighter aces.
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Korean War: Reactivated for the Korean War, the squadron flew the F7F Tigercat and later the F3D Skyknight, conducting night interdiction and escort missions.
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Transition to Attack Role: In 1957, the squadron was redesignated as VMA-542 and transitioned to the attack mission, flying the A4D Skyhawk.
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Vietnam War: VMA-542 deployed to Vietnam, operating from Chu Lai Air Base and providing close air support with the A-6A Intruder, playing a key role in supporting ground forces.
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Harrier Era: In the 1980s, VMA-542 transitioned to the AV-8B Harrier II, becoming a vertical/short takeoff and landing (V/STOL) attack squadron.
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Operation Desert Storm: The squadron deployed to the Persian Gulf in 1991, flying combat sorties in support of coalition forces during Operation Desert Storm.
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Nickname: VMA-542 is nicknamed the "Tigers," and their insignia features a tiger's head, symbolizing aggressiveness and combat prowess.
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Recent History: In 2022, VMA-542 began transitioning to the F-35B Lightning II, marking the end of their long service flying the Harrier and a new era as an advanced stealth strike fighter squadron, redesignated as VMFA-542.
