Country United States | Type Fighter squadron | |
 | ||
Active 15 Feb 1944 – 10 Mar 1946 Allegiance United States of America Branch United States Marine Corps Role Air interdiction
close air support | ||
Marine Attack Squadron 143 (VMA-143), nicknamed the Rocket Raiders, was a reserve squadron in the United States Marine Corps. They saw action during World War II during the Battle of Guadalcanal, the Battle of Bougainville and the Battle of Balikpapan.
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History
Formed as Marine Scout Bombing Squadron 143 (VMSB-143) on March 1, 1943 at Naval Air Station San Diego, California. Equipped with Vought SB2U Vindicators and after training, departed the United States on October 15, 1942 on the SS Lurline. Upon arriving at Henderson Field, Guadalcanal on November 12, 1942 the squadron was transitioned to the Douglas SBD Dauntless. The squadron was also augmented with nine Grumman TBF Avengers shortly after arrival at Henderson Field.
The squadron took part in the attack on Houn Maru on May 19 1943, damaging her and forcing her aground at 6 48N, 155 49E, off Tonolei, Bougainville a total loss. Redesignated VMTB-143 on June 1, 1943 the squadron took part in the Bougainville Campaign and was based at Munda Airfield.
Returning to the United States and based at Marine Corps Air Station Santa Barbara during June 1944, the squadron was re-designated VMTB(CVS)-143 and was assigned to USS Gilbert Islands (CVE-107). The squadron took part in the Battle of Balikpapan in Borneo supporting the Australian 7th Division. Following the war the squadron was deactivated on March 10, 1946 as part of the post war draw down of forces.
In August 1945, famed comic strip artist Alex Raymond was made an honorary member of the unit while serving alongside them in the Pacific War. He designed a new squadron patch inspired by his work creating Flash Gordon, leading to the squadron nickname of "The Rocket Raiders". [source: http://www.adamsplanes.com/Alex%20Raymond.htm]