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VMA-311 Tomcats reach three-month mark with more than 3,000 combat flight hours

Marine Corps News

Story Identification #: 200522215203
Story by Compiled by 3MAW Public Affairs

AL ASAD, Iraq (Feb. 22, 2005) -- Marine Attack Squadron 311 reached its three-month mark Feb. 13 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom II.

The operational tempo has been high, as the Tomcats have supported tasking from I Marine Expeditionary Force and 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. Since arriving in country Nov. 13, the Tomcats have conducted operations 24 hours a day, seven days a week, providing support to the Marines, Soldiers and Iraqi Security Forces throughout the Al Anbar Province.

The Tomcats, with their AV-8B Harrier II's, have flown more than 3,000 hours during this period, setting a Harrier squadron record for number of flight hours flown in a three-month period.

The squadron's primary mission has been armed reconnaissance. In this role, the AV-8B has again proven itself to be a vital asset with its Litening II Targeting Pod. This system is used to detect, identify, and helps in the destruction of targets for Marines on the ground.

The Tomcats were quickly indoctrinated into theater operations by participating in Operation Al Fajr in Fallujah within eight hours of arrival in country.

"It has been the fulfillment of a life-long dream to protect the freedoms of those who are unable to protect it themselves," said Capt. Antonio Demarco, a pilot from Detroit. "I am happy to play a small role in this historic event."

From the many cities such as Baghdad, Mosul, Al Qaim, Haditha, Ar Ramadi and many other cities throughout the country, the Tomcats have supported all those who have requested air support overhead.

Prior to the historical free democratic national elections for the Iraqi people, the Tomcats patrolled the skies, keeping a close watch on the election sites for insurgent activity. They were also airborne around the clock on Jan. 30 to further ensure a safe and trouble-free election process.

The squadron's Marines have worked tirelessly in order to facilitate the many successes of the squadron. From the aircraft mechanics on the line to the administrative personnel stationed in the headquarters building, this combat deployment has demonstrated to everyone the importance of their jobs, and how the Marine Corps conducts combat operations.

Most of the Marines agree the training received prior to arriving in theater has prepared them fully for the many personal and professional challenges they face on a daily basis. The Marines have also learned of the other cultures that work aboard Al Asad, and the role they play in re-building this country.

"It has been rewarding interacting with the Iraqi Nationals on the base," said Lance Cpl. Sean Skinner, plane captain and Santa Rosa, Calif. native. "Everyone here is doing a job in the hopes that one day Iraq will be able to govern itself."

The three-month mark is historically the midway point of a standard deployment.

"At this point, I could not be more proud of the accomplishments of the Marines of VMA-311," said Col. Clyde "Wolfman" Woltman, commanding officer, VMA-311. "We have excelled at our mission and will continue to support our fellow Marines to the maximum extent possible."