Have Gun Will Travel: VMFA-121 80th Anniversary

Photo By Staff Sgt. John Tetrault | U.S. Marine Corps F-35B pilots and maintainers assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, currently attached to Marine Medium Tilt-Rotor Squadron 265 Reinforced, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), make final preparations for the night time departure of three F-35B’s from the flight deck of amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), in the East China Sea, June 24, 2021. The F-35B is launched in support of the 31st MEU’s unit level training to maintain proficiency in air-to-surface attacks, tactical intercepts, and other critical skills. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the America Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operation to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. John Tetrault)  

PACIFIC OCEAN

06.24.2021

Story by Staff Sgt. John Tetrault 

31st Marine Expeditionary Unit       

PACIFIC OCEAN -- Since the commissioning of U.S. Marine Fighter Squadron 121 on June 24, 1941, the Marines and Sailors assigned to the squadron have earned a distinguished history in the archives of Marine Corps aviation. On the 80th anniversary the Marines and sailors of VMFA-121 recall the squadron’s esteemed history. From the Battle of Guadalcanal to operations in the Middle East, personnel assigned to VMFA-121 have consistently answered the nation’s call-to-arms and maintained a noteworthy reputation.

Beginning in World War II, VMF-121 flew the F4F Wildcat and F4U Corsair in campaigns across the Pacific. VMF-121 produced 14 Fighter Aces, more than any other Marine Corps fighter squadron. Among these pilots who’ve shot down three or more enemy aircrafts was Congressional Medal of Honor winner, Capt. Joseph J. Foss.

No matter the conflict, location, or aircraft, Marines and sailors of VMF-121 remain a highly effective unit. Re-designated as a Marine Attack Squadron due to flying the A-1 Skyraider during the Korean War, VMA-121 dropped more bomb tonnage than any other Navy or Marine Corps squadron throughout the war. Throughout the Vietnam conflict, VMA-121 with the nickname “Green Knights”, supported all allied units, creating and delivering a sought after “Marine brand” of close air support with the A-4 Skyhawk.

In December 1989, becoming the first Marine Corps F/A-18D All Weather Hornet Squadron the squadron was again re-designated, now as Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 121. While deployed during the Desert Storm Air Campaign, the squadron flew more hours than any other Navy or Marine Corps tactical jet squadron in support of the liberation of Kuwait. From March 2000 to September 2007, the Green Knights deployed numerous times to multiple locales in the Middle East in support of Operations Southern Watch, Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.

In January 2013, the Green Knights began flight operations with the F-35B at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona and were re-designated as Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121. In January 2017, VMFA-121 became the first permanently forward deployed F-35B squadron arriving at MCAS Iwakuni, Japan.

Currently, VMFA-121 is embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) in support of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. Deployed Marines and Sailors of the squadron, operate the F-35B over the same seas where the pioneers of VMF-121 carved out their place in history.

• Date Taken: 06.24.2021
• Date Posted: 07.11.2021 20:45
• Story ID: 400690
• Location: PACIFIC OCEAN