Marine Observation Squadron 7
No known insignia
ActiveDecember 15, 1944 – November 16, 1945
CountryUnited States
BranchUSMC
TypeObservation squadron
Garrison/HQInactive
EngagementsWorld War II
* Battle of Okinawa

Marine Observation Squadron 7 (VMO-7) was an observation squadron of the United States Marine Corps during World War II. They were active for a year and a half during which time they saw action during the Battle of Okinawa. The squadron was quickly deactivated following the end of the war.[1]

History

VMO-7 was formed on December 15, 1944 at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia. After a short period of training they moved to Marine Corps Air Station Ewa on February 27, 1945 sailing on board the British escort carrier HMS Ranee (D03).[2] Another two months of training in Hawaii saw them depart Pearl Harbor on April 17, 1945 and sail for Okinawa. The squadron filtered onto the island from 7 – 11 May and quickly began flights spotting targets for III Amphibious Corps’ artillery. During the period between June 11 to June 22 the squadron made 271 CASEVAC flights from a dirt strip in Naha taking 369 casualties[3] back to hospitals in the rear areas.[4] They were engaged in combat operation on Okinawa until June 21, 1945. During the battle the squadron flew 300 combat hours without losing a pilot or plane.[5] They remained on the island for the rest of the war and were deactivated on November 16, 1945

Awards

See also

References

Notes
  1. ↑ Sherrod ‘’History of Marine Corps Aviation in World War II.’’ p. 453.
  2. ↑ Sherrod ‘’History of Marine Corps Aviation in World War II.’’ p. 378.
  3. ↑ Sherrod ‘’History of Marine Corps Aviation in World War II.’’ p. 378.
  4. ↑ De Chant, John Devilbirds p. 242.
  5. ↑ Sherrod ‘’History of Marine Corps Aviation in World War II.’’ p. 378.
Bibliography
  • De Chant, John A. (1947). Devilbirds - The Story of United States Marine Aviation in World War II. New York: Harper & Brothers.
  • Sherrod, Robert (1952). History of Marine Corps Aviation in World War II. Washington, D.C.: Combat Forces Press.
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