Introduction
Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 311 (VMFA-311), known as the “Tomcats,” is a prominent fighter attack squadron in the United States Marine Corps. Based at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Miramar, California, it operates the advanced F-35C Lightning II aircraft. The squadron is part of Marine Aircraft Group 11 (MAG-11) and falls under the jurisdiction of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (3rd MAW). With a rich history that spans several significant military conflicts, VMFA-311 has established itself as a vital component of U.S. military aviation.
History
World War II
VMFA-311 was originally commissioned as Marine Fighting Squadron 311 (VMF-311) on December 1, 1942, at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina. Under the command of Major Ralph K. Rottet, the squadron underwent initial training and transitioned from SNJ Texan trainers to the Vought F4U Corsair fighter. By late June 1943, VMF-311 had fully equipped itself with Corsairs and was ready for deployment.
On September 8, 1943, the squadron arrived at Marine Corps Air Depot Miramar, California, and soon embarked aboard the USS Nassau (CVE-16) for operations in the Pacific Theater. VMF-311 participated in one of the earliest American catapult operations with Corsairs on October 6, 1943, flying missions from USS Nassau to United States Naval Station Tutuila in American Samoa.
After a period of combat air patrols and missions in American Samoa without engaging enemy forces, VMF-311 experienced significant losses during a Japanese bombing raid on Roi-Namur on February 12, 1944. Despite these challenges, the squadron regrouped and conducted various strafing missions and bombing operations against Japanese positions throughout the Marshall Islands until March 1945.
Okinawa and the End of the War
On March 8, 1945, VMF-311 embarked on USS Sitkoh Bay (CVE-86) and landed at Yontan Airfield during the Battle of Okinawa. The squadron achieved its first aerial victory shortly after arriving when it engaged and destroyed a kamikaze aircraft. Over the next few months, VMF-311 would become highly effective in combat operations, credited with shooting down a total of 71 enemy aircraft by July 1945.
Following Japan’s surrender in September 1945, VMF-311 transitioned from combat operations to occupation duties in Japan until May 1946. During this period, the squadron underwent reorganization and equipment upgrades that set the stage for its future deployments.
The Korean War
The Korean War marked a significant chapter in VMFA-311’s history. The squadron became the first land-based Marine jet squadron to engage in combat upon its arrival in South Korea on December 7, 1950. Equipped with F9F Panthers, VMF-311 provided crucial close air support for ground forces during intense battles.
The squadron was involved in several key operations throughout the war. Notably, it participated in attacks on strategic targets such as the Sui-ho Dam in June 1952 and pioneered strip-alert tactics that remain in practice today. Among its ranks were legendary pilots like John Glenn and Ted Williams, who contributed to the squadron’s prowess during this tumultuous period.
By the conclusion of hostilities in Korea, VMA-311 had amassed an impressive record of over 18,851 combat sorties and was later re-designated as Marine Attack Squadron 311 (VMA-311) in 1957.
The Vietnam War
In the summer of 1958, VMA-311 transitioned to A4D-2 Skyhawks and later A-4Es as it prepared for deployment to South Vietnam. The squadron flew its first combat mission during this conflict on June 2, 1965. During its time in Vietnam, VMA-311 supported numerous operations including Operation Starlite and provided critical air support during significant engagements such as the Battle of Khe Sanh.
With over 54,625 combat sorties flown across Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia by early 1973, VMA-311 played an essential role throughout the war. Its pilots exhibited extraordinary bravery and skill while conducting airstrikes against enemy positions.
The Gulf War
In late 1980s, VMA-311 received its first AV-8B Harrier aircraft and
Artykuł sporządzony na podstawie: Wikipedia (EN).