VMA-231 “Ace of Spades” USMC Patch

$7.95

In stock

Description

This VMA-231 Patch represents the Marine Attack Squadron 231. Which is a United States Marine Corps fixed wing attack squadron that consists of AV-8B Harrier jets. Their HQ is MCAS Cherry Point. The circular black and white patch displays the Ace of Spaces.

VMA-231 USMC Patch Features

  • Iron-on Adhesive Backing so that you can either sew or iron on the patch to your uniform, pack, or any other type of material.
  • Patch measures approximately 3″ in.

About Marine Corps VMA-231 – “Ace of Spades”

Marine Attack Squadron 231 (VMA-231), the United States Marine Corps’ oldest flying unit, dates back to 1919 as part of the 1st Division, Squadron 1.

Originally emerging from the Northern Bombing Group in Northern France (1918), the squadron was initially stationed in San Pedro de Macorís, Santo Domingo. By 1922, it was re-designated as Marine Observation Squadron One (VO-1M). It later became known for its iconic “Ace of Spades” insignia, conceived by 2nd Lieutenant Hayne D. Boyden.

VMA-231’s history is marked by pioneering tactics in dive-bombing and valorous service across various conflicts, including the notable Battle of Ocotal in 1927.

Now based at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, the squadron operates AV-8B Harrier jets, adhering to its legacy of innovation and excellence within Marine Aircraft Group 14 (MAG-14) and the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (2nd MAW). VMA-231 will begin transitioning to F-35Bs in 2026.

Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point – MCAS Cherry Point 

Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point (MCAS Cherry Point) is located in Havelock, North Carolina. It’s a key airfield of the USMC. Commissioned in 1942, it serves as the home of the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. Initially authorized in 1941, the base has played significant roles from World War II through modern conflicts.

During WWII, Cherry Point trained Marines for the Pacific theater and served as a base for anti-submarine operations. In the Korean and Vietnam Wars, it provided trained aviators and maintenance personnel. Cherry Point contributed notably to Operation Desert Storm with multiple squadrons and support units.

Post WWII, the base was transferred from the Navy to the Marines and underwent several name changes, reflecting its evolving role. Notably, Cherry Point was also used by the United States Air Force for radar operations in the 1950s and 1960s.

The base’s facilities include a 7,800-foot runway and accommodate a variety of units, including Marine Aircraft Group 24 and Combat Logistics Company 33. MCAS Cherry Point played a key part in Operation Enduring Freedom and continues to be an essential facility for Marine Corps aviation training and operations. The base also notably served as an emergency landing site for Space Shuttle launches and hosted multinational military exercises like Bold Quest.

Currently, MCAS Cherry Point hosts several Marine Corps and Navy units, playing a vital role in military aviation and logistics. The base’s extensive history and ongoing strategic importance underscore its key role in U.S. military operations both domestically and globally.

Additional information

Weight .02 lbs
Dimensions 3.25 × 4.25 × .125 in