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VMFA-333

18 members•1 unit

VMFA-333 Homepage Photos Members

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U.S. Marine Corps

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About VMFA-333

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 333 (VMFA-333), known as the "Shamrocks," was a distinguished United States Marine Corps fighter squadron. Originally activated during World War II, the squadron served in various roles and aircraft over the decades, flying notable planes such as the F-4 Phantom II and later the F/A-18 Hornet. VMFA-333 gained recognition for its combat performance during the Vietnam War, including being credited with the only Marine air-to-air kill of the conflict. The squadron participated in numerous deployments before being deactivated in 1992 as part of post-Cold War force reductions.

About VMFA-333

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Founding and Designation: VMFA-333, known as the "Shamrocks," was originally commissioned as VMSB-333 (Marine Scout Bombing Squadron 333) on August 1, 1943, during World War II.
World War II Service: The unit flew SBD Dauntless dive bombers in the Pacific Theatre, providing close air support and anti-shipping missions.
Post-War Reactivation: The squadron was deactivated after WWII and reactivated several times, eventually being redesignated as VMFA-333 (Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 333) in 1966.
First USMC Squadron to Deploy with F-4 Phantom II: In 1966, VMFA-333 became the first Marine Corps squadron to deploy overseas with the F-4 Phantom II, a major leap in jet fighter capability.
Vietnam War Combat: The Shamrocks saw extensive combat during the Vietnam War, flying ground attack and air superiority missions from Chu Lai Air Base.
MiG-21 Kill: On September 11, 1972, VMFA-333 pilot Major Lee T. Lasseter and Radar Intercept Officer Captain John D. Cummings scored the only USMC MiG kill of the Vietnam War by shooting down a North Vietnamese MiG-21.
USS America Deployment: In 1972, VMFA-333 became the first Marine squadron to deploy aboard a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier (USS America, CV-66) since World War II.
Distinctive Shamrock Emblem: The squadron's green shamrock emblem became a recognizable symbol, reflecting its nickname and Irish heritage.
F-18 Hornet Era: In 1987, VMFA-333 transitioned from the F-4 Phantom II to the modern F/A-18 Hornet, continuing its role as a premier Marine fighter-attack unit.
Deactivation: VMFA-333 was deactivated on March 31, 1992, after nearly 50 years of distinguished service, with its legacy commemorated by former members and aviation enthusiasts.

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VMFA-333

18 members•1 unit

VMFA-333 Homepage Photos Members

Relive and share the memories of your service-time with your brothers and sisters in arms today. VetFriends.com can help you reconnect.

Did you proudly serve in the VMFA-333?

Are you looking for someone who is or was in the VMFA-333?

Do you have VMFA-333 photos you'd like to share?

Then join a community with your brothers and sisters of the VMFA-333.

Branch

U.S. Marine Corps

Members

About VMFA-333

Photos

1980

3rd FSSG • U.S. Marine Corps • 1980

BELLEAU WOODS

3BN 2nd marine Reg. 2nd mar div Lima co • U.S. Marine Corps • 2024

U.S. Marine Corps • 2009

Marine Corps Birthday

VMFA-235 • U.S. Marine Corps

About VMFA-333

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Founding and Designation: VMFA-333, known as the "Shamrocks," was originally commissioned as VMSB-333 (Marine Scout Bombing Squadron 333) on August 1, 1943, during World War II.
World War II Service: The unit flew SBD Dauntless dive bombers in the Pacific Theatre, providing close air support and anti-shipping missions.
Post-War Reactivation: The squadron was deactivated after WWII and reactivated several times, eventually being redesignated as VMFA-333 (Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 333) in 1966.
First USMC Squadron to Deploy with F-4 Phantom II: In 1966, VMFA-333 became the first Marine Corps squadron to deploy overseas with the F-4 Phantom II, a major leap in jet fighter capability.
Vietnam War Combat: The Shamrocks saw extensive combat during the Vietnam War, flying ground attack and air superiority missions from Chu Lai Air Base.
MiG-21 Kill: On September 11, 1972, VMFA-333 pilot Major Lee T. Lasseter and Radar Intercept Officer Captain John D. Cummings scored the only USMC MiG kill of the Vietnam War by shooting down a North Vietnamese MiG-21.
USS America Deployment: In 1972, VMFA-333 became the first Marine squadron to deploy aboard a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier (USS America, CV-66) since World War II.
Distinctive Shamrock Emblem: The squadron's green shamrock emblem became a recognizable symbol, reflecting its nickname and Irish heritage.
F-18 Hornet Era: In 1987, VMFA-333 transitioned from the F-4 Phantom II to the modern F/A-18 Hornet, continuing its role as a premier Marine fighter-attack unit.
Deactivation: VMFA-333 was deactivated on March 31, 1992, after nearly 50 years of distinguished service, with its legacy commemorated by former members and aviation enthusiasts.