Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 211 re-designated to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 during a ceremony aboard Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, June 30.
The re-designation marks the first time an AV-8B Harrier squadron transitioned to an F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter squadron, becoming the second F-35 squadron in the United States Marine Corps.
During the ceremony, Lt. Col. William Maples relinquished command of the transitioning squadron to Lt. Col. Chad Vaughn.
“The Marines are really what makes this aircraft special,” said Vaughn. “Their hard work, effort and dedication are what really make this aircraft awesome, so I’m humbled to be working with them and proud to lead them.”