U.S. Marines with Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron (MWHS) 2 stand in formation during a change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, June 13, 2025. The ceremony represented the transfer of responsibility, authority, and accountability from Col. Michael J. Souza to Lt. Col. Keenan J. Chirhart. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Mya Seymour)
U.S. Marines from Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron (MWHS) 2 conduct a change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, June 13, 2025. The ceremony represented the transfer of responsibility, authority, and accountability from Col. Michael J. Souza to Lt. Col. Keenan J. Chirhart. (U.S. Marine Corps video by Lance Cpl. Gavin K. Kulczewsk
Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 231, known as the "Ace of Spades," marked the end of an era with its final AV-8B Harrier II flight on Thursday, culminating decades of rich history and distinguished service with the iconic vertical takeoff and landing aircraft.
First commissioned in 1919, VMA-231 is the Marine Corps’ oldest flying squadron and has served with distinction in multiple conflicts worldwide over the last century. After adopting the Harrier II in 1985, VMA-231 supported major overseas operations to include Operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Allied Force, Odyssey Dawn, Inherent Resolve, and most recently, Prosperity Guardian.
The squadron’s final flight and colors casing ceremony took place at Marine Corps Air...
05.29.2025 | MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, NORTH CAROLINA, US |
Story by 1st Lt. Duncan Stoner
