This page is dedicated to Brian Putney, creator and longtime webmaster of the original VMA-131 website, in recognition of his work preserving the history and memories of the VMA-131 Diamondbacks.
Preserved by the Skyhawk Association.
VMA-131
The Diamondbacks
Four decades of Marines, Skyhawks and memories. Explore the people, aircraft, photographs and stories that made Marine Attack Squadron 131 part of the history of the Douglas A-4 Skyhawk.
Welcome to VMA-131
The squadron history belongs to those who lived it.
VMA-131 began as VMF-131 at Naval Air Station New York, Floyd Bennett Field, in 1958 and was redesignated Marine Attack Squadron 131 in 1962. The Diamondbacks became closely identified with the A-4 Skyhawk and continued Marine Reserve aviation operations through their years at Willow Grove.
This collection combines the long-established Skyhawk Association record with photographs, stories, documents and memories preserved by the VMA-131 community.
The Squadron Story
From Floyd Bennett Field to Willow Grove.
The Diamondbacks served through decades of change in Marine aviation. Their history spans activation in New York, transition to attack aviation, movement to Willow Grove, successive generations of Skyhawks and the experiences of the Marines who kept them flying.
Voices of the Diamondbacks
History told by the people who were there.
Faces of VMA-131
Our Squadron History Belongs to Us.
Pilots, commanding officers, maintainers, Marines, families and friends across generations created the VMA-131 / VMA-132 record. Names, photographs, aircraft, dates and stories become more valuable when the people who lived the history help identify and explain them.
Please Add Your Two Cents.
From the Department of Questionable Ideas
Some Things Seemed Like a Good Idea at the Time
That is your webmaster standing in front of a VMA-131 A-4E equipped with the memorable, highly sophisticated and apparently OSHA-approved “basket” arrangement.
In retrospect, both the aircraft and the young Marine were considerably newer then. The airplane at least had a maintenance schedule.
— Blade
The Skyhawks
Aircraft with identities.
Skyhawk.org already contains a deep photographic record of VMA-131 aircraft. Bureau Numbers, dates, locations and photographer information can become part of the squadron story rather than isolated gallery records.
The Visual Record
Aircraft. People. Places. Squadron life.
We Remember
Final Inspection.
The preserved VMA-131 collection includes obituaries, notices and memories of Marines who served with the squadron. Those records can remain part of the living squadron history instead of disappearing with the original website.
Preserved source material in this section may open or download as its original file. Keeping the original document intact preserves names, dates, wording and context for future research.
Research VMA-131
The records beneath the presentation.
The items below are preserved source documents. Selecting one opens or downloads the original file so the historical source remains intact.
Aircraft History
Search Gabby's Histories for individual A-4 aircraft associated with VMA-131. The squadron is preselected, and you can change the unit in the search.
Gabby's Histories is an aircraft-history research source. Squadron photographs remain in the separate photo archive.
Open the existing Skyhawk detailed VMA-131 / VMA-132 record
VMA-131 / 132 |
Point of Contact = Squadron Duty Officer (SDO).
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Patch The Yellow Last A4 patch was thought out, designed, and put into play by myself. I was seat mech. with 131 from 89-95. The patch displayed on the website is a second run patch which can be distinguished by the period at the end "Last Marine Scooter Squadron." The first run did not have the period. I believe the patch was designed the end of 1993 but more so in 1994, but I do not remember without digging through some paper work that I may or may not still have. I had a few designs like the Red white and blue tom cat patch. Ed Miranda helped with the decision of which patch to use. Sgt Russ "Stretch" Cataldo II |
Sources Bob Beavis |
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Handle Diamondbacks Heritage VMA-131 Diamondbacks, were based at NAS Floyd Bennett Field, Brooklyn, New York from 1960 - 1972. VMA-131 Diamondbacks, also known as MARTD Willow Grove, were based at Willow Grove, PA from 1972 until their deactivation in 1998. When in a reserve status the Squadron was known as VMA-131 and as an active duty squadron MAG-49. The Diamondbacks deployed to MCAS Yuma, Arizona for training. VMA-132 - MAY2019: It has come to light there was a VMA-132 in service at Floyd Bennett Field in 1968 per PDF Naval Aeronautical Organization OPNAV NOTICE 05400 for Some time after this incident and before 1972, VMA-132 was merged into VMA-131. |
Home Ports Date - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Location: 1960 - Naval Air Station Floyd Bennett Field, Brooklyn, New York. 1972 - Naval Air Station Willow Grove, Pennsylvania.
JUL71: H&MS-49, Headquarters and Maintenance Squadron 49 was assigned Tail Code QZ. |
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Aircraft Date Type First Received - - - - - - Type of Aircraft: 196? - - - - - - - - -T-1A Trainers?? 195? - - - - - - - - -North American FJ-4 Fury 196? - - - - - - - - -Douglas A4D-2 (A-4B) Skyhawk * 196? - - - - - - - - -Douglas A4D-2N (A-4C) Skyhawk * 196? - - - - - - - - -Douglas TA-4F Skyhawk March 1975- - - - - - Douglas A4D-5 (A-4E) Skyhawk * 198? - - - - - - - - -Douglas A-4F Skyhawk 1988 - - - - - - - - -Douglas A-4M Skyhawk * November 30, 1962 The A4D-2 designation changed to A-4B The A4D-2N designation changed to A-4C The A4D-5 designation changed to A-4E For A-4 Skyhawk aircraft assigned to this unit see lower in this page: "Both squadrons were flying the same A/C at Floyd Bennett in 1966. VMA-132 went to El Toro for ATD that year. Seems like 132 was merged into 131 after its CO Pete Jernigan took a permanent move with his airline to LA." Frank'k Shaffer. |
Air Wings Modex "QG" while at Willow Grove, PA VMA-132: In reference to "PDF Naval Aeronautical Organization OPNAV NOTICE 05400 for Fiscal Year 1968" indicating the existence of a VMA-132. What a/c 132 may have used the following is offered.
H and MS-49 Willow Grove, PA. BuNo 152847
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Deployments The Diamondbacks deployed to MCAS Yuma, Arizona for training.
Ref. accident of 22JAN67 landing at El Toro; "This was VMA-132s ATD I believe, GAmbelli was in VMA-132, Powell was doing ALT ATD and was in VMA-131. I had just been transferred into the sqd. from the helo's after I got appointed WO. Some time later they merged the sqdns into VMA-131 and of course as you know when RHE closed RHE Field we went to Willow Grove." Tom Simmons. VMA-132: “During my tenure with VMA 132 we deployed to NAS Roosevelt Roads twice, once to MCAS Yuma and finally to MCAS El Toro where the tragedy occurred. By the way the subject tragedy was not the first as we lost another precious life on one of my NAS Roosevelt Roads deployments. I left VMA 132 in the fall of 1967 at NASNY when my enlistment was up so I have no relationship with the base closure and new home at NAS Willow Grove.” Forwarded by William Egen. |
Commanding Officers VMA-131 April 1958 - April 1961 - - - - - Maj L. J. Downes April 1961 - June 1962- - - - - - LtCol Hindrim June 1962 - July 1963 - - - - - - LtCol R. Henshall * June 1963 - September 1963- - - - LtCol P. W. Dougherty - (acting CO) September 1963 - March 1965 - - - LtCol P. W. Dougherty March 1965 - March 1967 - - - - - LtCol J. Hendershot "Both squadrons were flying the same A/C at Floyd Bennett in 1966. VMA-132 went to El Toro for ATD that year. Seems like 132 was merged into 131 after its CO Pete Jernigan took a permanent move with his airline to LA. Billy Mitchell became C/O of 131 at that time, 1967, succeeded by Jack Warrender. 131 moved to Willow Grove in Sept. 1970. I think Pete Gaenzler then became CO. " Fred'k Shaffer. (ATD= Annual Training Deployment?) March 1967 - June 1969- - - - - - LtCol W. Mitchell June 1969 - June 1971 - - - - - - LtCol J. P. Warrender June 1971 - August 1973 - - - - - LtCol P. P. Gaenzler August 1973 - August 1975 - - - - LtCol. John R. Powers August 1975 - September 1977- - - LtCol G.R. Omrod September 1977 - September 1979 - LtCol J.R. Shea September 1979 - September 1981 - LtCol B. C. Dyer September 1981 - August 1983- - - LtCol D. Muir August 1983 - August 1985 - - - - LtCol R. L. Beavis August 1985 - August 1987 - - - - LtCol R. B. McVey August 1987 - August 1989 - - - - LtCol E. L. Bishop August 1989 - August 1991 - - - - LtCol J. J. Kuzmick August 1991 - August 1993 - - - - LtCol F. A. Feltenberger August 1993 - November 1996 - - - Col G. C. Lake November 1996 - March 1998- - - - LtCol J. F. Rufo March 1998 - December 1998- - - - LtCol M. D. Volland * Killed during AT, July 1963 at MCAS, Cherry Point Corrected CO list from Tom Simmons and Bob Beavis VMA-132 Circa 1967 ---------------------------- CO Pete Jernigan |
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Awards No info yet |
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Events April 15, 1958: On 15 April 1958 Marine Fighter Squadron 131 ( VMF-131) was activated into the Organized Marine Corps Reserve at Naval Air Station, Brooklyn New York (Floyd Bennett Field). In 1962 it changed its designation to Marine Attack Squadron 131 (VMA-131). July 24, 1963: LCol. Robert V. Henshall, 41, (USMC Reserve CO VMA-131 normally based at Floyd Bennett Field, Brooklyn) was killed when his Skyhawk (A-4B BuNo 142107) crashed on landing at MCAS Cherry Point, NC, Wednesday. Statesville Record & Landmark, Thursday, July 25, 1963. May 15, 1969: Capt. Ron Burnett of Marine Reserve squadron VMA-131 A-4 from Floyd Bennett Field, NY, survived when his plane (BuNo 144871) crashed into the ocean off Puerto Rico yesterday. The plane plunged into the Caribbean about 1/2 mile off the South coast of Puerto Rico. The Morning News, Wilmington, DL, Thursday, 15 May 1969. May 30, 1969: Maj. Frank Gambelli, 31, ejected safely Sunday morning when his Skyhawk (BuNo 142730) crashed in a marsh about 100 feet from the Marine Park bridge across Rockaway Inlet near Flatbush Ave. after it lost power on takeoff from Floyd Bennett Field. Onoenta Star, and Lowell Sun, Monday, June 2, 1969 and The Lowell Sun, Monday, June 2, 1969. Maj. Frank Gambelli, 31, ejected safely before his Skyhawk collided with an automobile on Flatbush Ave. in Brooklyn yesterday. The pilot landed on the air base runway. The A4 Skyhawk lost power on takeoff from Floyd Bennett Field, crashed in the street, sideswiping a car driven by Roy Ericson, 33. Arizona Republic, Monday, 02 June 1969. July 23, 1972: Capt. Charles B. Coltrin ejected safely when his A-4 Skyhawk (BuNo 147822) crashed on a farm in Fender Count, NC, Sunday and was recovered from the North East Cape Fear river at about 2:42 p.m. The VMA-131 (Willow Grove, PA) pilot was on a training flight and the aircraft crashed on a farm about two miles east of NC highway 117 near Rocky Point. Burlington (NC) Times-News, Monday, July 24, 1972. May 8, 1973: Capt. R.W. Strasburg ejected safely from his NAS Willow Grove A-4 Skyhawk (BuNo 150596) about 7:50 p.m. Tuesday night after he detected vibrations in the cockpit as he made a GCA approach to Willow Grove. Capt. Strasburg, who was on a routine training flight from NAS Memphis, TN, ejected shortly before the crash. The jet clipped some 50 foot high trees before crashing into the backyard of a home at 2522 Lenhart Road with the tail section coming to rest in the back yard and the wing tanks and forward section coming to rest in a small creek some distance beyond the house. Todays Spirit, 08 May 1973. Capt. R.W. Strasburg ejected seconds from his VMA-331 A-4 Skyhawk about 7:50 p.m. Tuesday night when he detected vibrations in the cockpit as he made a GCA approach to Willow Grove. Capt. Strasburg, who was on a routine training flight from NAS Memphis, TN, landed on Treewigtown Road in Hatfield Township. The jet crashed into the backyard of a home at 2522 Lenhart Road, Colmar. Doylestown Intelligencer, continued, photo 1, photo 2, Wednesday, 08 May 1973. March 1, 1975: Maj. Ralph S. Dilullo ejected safely when he experienced mechanical difficulties and his Skyhawk (BuNo 147735) slammed into a wooded hillside and exploded in an isolated wooded section near Stony Ford and Twining Fork Roads near Langhorne just before 10:30 a.m. Saturday. Maj. Dilullo parachuted into a strand of trees near Bridgetown Pike and was picked up by a rescue helicopter. Bucks County Courier Times, part 2, photo, Sunday, March 2, 1975 and The Daily Intelligencer, Monday, March 3, 1975. August 26, 1979: Capt. Robert M Baker, 31, (Marine Reserve VMA-131) was killed when his A-4 Skyhawk (BuNo 149989) exploded about 500 feet in the air ripping off the tail and crashed into the Horsham Friends Meeting cemetery near Meetinghouse and Easton roads. The plane had taken off from the runway exit at Easton Road and Maple Avenue and came to rest less than a mile south of the air station at 11:29 a.m. Sunday. The Daily Intelligencer, Monday, August 27, 1979 and Tuesday, August 28, 1979. photo 1, photo 2, photo 3.The upper fuel cap was not seated properly and the fuel leaked/streamed back from the upper fueling hole/port and ignited. The explosion severed the control cables and the airplane dove rapidly out of control and crashed in the cemetery a mile off the end of runway 15. January 7, 1980: Capt. Dominic Lemma, 29, ejected safely Monday night just before his VMA-131 A-4 Skyhawk exploded in mid-air shortly after take-off at 7:30 p.m. The plane hit 1.5 miles off the end of the MCAS Yuma runway, digging a large hole in the desert about 75 yards from the East Main Canal at County 13 1/2 St. The explosion set fire to an acre or more of brush and when the emergency units arrived the entire area was in flames. Yuma Sun, continued, Tuesday, January 8, 1980. Not positive of pilot but center Fuel external tank leaked and caught fire on night takeoff. Tower called for Skyhawk to eject and so he did. Perfectly good a/c. 4th MAW, MAG-49 Det. South Weymouth, A-4E Buno 152081 was destroyed at Yuma when the aircraft caught fire following takeoff, 07 January 1980. Aircrew ejected. Naval Safety Center via Jim Winchester. May 5, 1984: Maj. Bob "Beak" McVey (XO) ejected safely after a bird strike through the right front windscreen near NAS Cecil Field, FL. The plane was so well trimmed that it flew until it ran out of gas and, fortunately, plummeted to earth without any loss of life. Maj. Robert B. McVey, 38, managed to bail out shortly after losing control of his A-4 Echo as it approached NAS Cecil Field around 1:30 p.m. Saturday. Navy spokesman Nick Young said a bird had apparently flown into the jet's engine about 13 miles from the runway. McVey's plane was one of three on a routine training mission from VMA-131 based at NAS Willow Grove. The abandoned aircraft passed over several homes in the Jacksonville area and knocked down trees before plowing a 150 foot path through a wooded are near Dinsmore in Duval county. Fort Walton Beach Playground Daily News, continued, Monday, May 7, 1984. Key West Citizen, Monday, May 7, 1984. 4th MAW, MAG-49, A-4E BuNo 149654 was destroyed at Cecil Field from bird strike while entering overhead pattern. 05 May 1984. Pilot ejected. Naval Safety Center via Jim Winchester. May 1984: After a bad day with the "Tanker". VMA-131 was on a two week ATD to NAS Cecil with our E's. Our arrival airshow included the XO taking a bird through the right front windscreen and ejecting with the plane so well trimmed that if flew until it ran out of gas and, fortunately, plummeted to earth without any loss of life with the exception of the avian FOD. January 10, 1990: Maj. Charles R. Mize ejected safely from his VMA-131 A-4M Skyhawk after in-flight fire during aerial refueling from a C-130 tanker near MCAS Yuma, AZ. Times-News, Twin Falls, ID, Thursday, January 11, 1990. 4th MAW, MAG-42, Det. A, Jacksonville, A-4M BuNo 158162 was destroyed at Yuma when aircraft caught fire during air refueling. 09 January 1990. Pilot ejected, 0 fatalities. Naval Safety Center via Jim Winchester. January 12, 1990: Capt. Duane Pandorf ejected safely when his A-4M Skyhawk (BuNo 158149) crashed just off the base on approach to NAS Willow Grove about 10:45 a.m. Friday. The crash site was near the intersection of Route 611 and Blairs Mill Road in Upper Moreland Township. The plane clipped a one story car leasing company and a home beside it on Route 611, skidded along the path of the city street coming to rest at a stop sign. Chief Journalist Rich Beth said the jet was assigned to MAG-49 at Willow Grove and it was the second crash in a week for this aircraft. The Pentagon said the pilot walked away from that Yuma, AZ, crash with bruises. Altoona Mirror, Saturday, January 13, 1990. Capt. Duane Pandorf ejected safely 4-5 seconds before his VMA-131 A-4M Skyhawk clipped a one-story car leasing company building and a home beside it on Route 611, skidded along the path of the city street about a half-block down a slight hill and came to rest at a stop sign at the intersection of Broadway and Willow Avenues. Capt. Pandorf and his flight leadr LCol. Steven Bosshard were flying toward Wright Patterson AFB when Bosshard saw an apparent fuel leak in Pandorf's jet and they had turned back toward NAS Willow Grove when Pandorf's jet engine began losing power at about 1,200 feet while trying to maintain a landing pattern. The crash caused an estimated .5 million in damage to the residential neighborhood, about 1 1/2 mile south of the air station in Upper Moreland Township. The Intelligencer/Record, article 2, Sunday, January 14, 1990 and Monday, continued, January 15, 1990. Doylestown Intelligencer Photo 1, photo 2, photo 3, photo 4, photo 5, photo 6. 4th MAW, MAG-49, Willow Grove, A-4M BuNo 158149 was destroyed at Willow Grove when aircraft crashed into the ground 1 NM short of the runway. 12 January 1990. 0 fatalities. Naval Safety Center via Jim Winchester. June 22, 1994: Naval Air Station Willow Grove just outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was on this day that members of VMA-131 witnessed the retirement of the last USMC A-4s, which were at the time being flown by the Diamondbacks, members of Marine Aircraft Group 49, Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing. Visitors included many Skyhawk pilots and support crews, aviation greats like Mr. Bob Rahn and friends of the Skyhawk. Four aircraft took part in the ceremonies, three in standard grey paint schemes applied to USMC A-4s and one painted up in VMA-131 Squadron colors. This aircraft also displayed the time of service of the A4 in the USMC as well as the name of the Group Commander. This small flight took off, returned in the missing man formation and rejoined as a flight of four. Following an overhead with tailhooks down, the A4s roared into the break and one by one landed. The last A4, flown by a very good friend of mine taxied in with it's break chute deployed. Col. George "Eagle" Lake LtCol. John "Baja" Rufo Maj. Dave "Yoda" Hurston Maj. Mike "Struts" Volland Both Baja and Struts later commanded VMA-131 and it's Marines is operations after the retirement of their A4s. Struts was the final C.O. of the Diamondbacks and retired the squadron in December of 1998. Again, I was honored to receive his personal invitation and traveled from college to attend. A sad day for the fans of the A4 both civilian and military, the Nation it protected and served, and the United States Marine Corps. From "BladeTwoOne", dated 9/14/2003. |
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Unit Photos (Be aware that VMA-131 and VMA-132 shared a/c.) NOV70: NOV 1970: MARTD Willow Grove BuNo 148439 A-4C 148439 lost its canopy on take-off from runway 33 at NAS Willow Grove. The pilot was escorted by an VMF-511 F-8L back to runway 33 for a safe landing. Ron Picciani Circa 1972: Circa 1972 VMA-131 pilots. Unit photo, Lt.Col. John Powers as C.O. Pic Two. R.L. Beavis photos. Lt.Col. R.L. "Beaver" Beavis: "Joined VMA-131 in 1972 and was given the keys and okay to fam the airplane at NAS Willow Grove. Continuously flew the VMA-131 Airplanes (A-4 C, E, M's & TA4-F & J's) through the years until my last military flight in December 1992. Accumulated over 3,500 flight hours in the A-4 series aircraft. .... No accidents or incidents - extremely reliable and tactical airplane. Thank you Marines for your safe maintenance and diligent work."
BuNo 158179, QG-03, as the pilot watches two Skyhawks execute a formation takeoff. John Binford. MAR 1973: BuNo 150596 at NAS Willow Grove. BuNo 150596 destroyed the evening of 8 Sept., 1973. Marine Capt. R. W. Strasburg ejected safely over Colmar, PA, on return flight from NAS Memphis to NAS Willow Grove. Ron Picciani. 07FEB76: Right side view of VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 152070, QG-01, on a snowy ramp, NAS Willow Grove. Copyright R.W. Harrison. BuNo 158179, VMA-131 QG-05, on the ramp. 1974: BuNo 147735, QG-07, parked on the ramp. Unknown photographer via W. Mutza. SEP75: VMA-131 BuNo 149492. T-28 at right is 2W-311. Photographer is unknown, from Gary Verver. OCT76: left rear view of Diamondback Skyhawk BuNo 149989, QG-10, MARTD Willow Grove. MAG-4 TA-4J BuNo 155103, QZ-00, in the foreground. A. Hafter. 12OCT76: VMA-131 BuNo 150001 parked on the ramp. Photo from G.B. Rhodes. Date unknown: right side view of VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4E BuNo 152061, QG-02, on the ramp at an unknown location. VMA-131 A-4E QG-04 at right. Photographer unknown. Date unknown: VMA-131 A-4M BuNo 159785, QG-09. From W. Munzenmaier?, via Gary Verver. 19DEC75: VMA-131 A-4E BuNo 152070, QG-01. At right is VMA-131 A-4E BuNo 150001, QG-11. Photographer unknown. SEP72-SEP75: Diamondbacks Skyhawk BuNo 147835, QG-02, parked on the ramp. Lionel Paul. OCT75: BuNo 150013, A-4E, QG-9 on the ramp. Gary Verver Collection. Someone (Webmaster Gene Atwell) had a bad day at the Tanker! . "VMA-131 was on a two week ATD to NAS Cecil with our E's. Our arrival at an air-show included the XO taking a bird through the right front windscreen and ejecting with the plane so well trimmed that if flew until it ran out of fuel." Image from Boom" Powell. Diamondbacks Skyhawk BuNo 150121, tail code QG, releasing Snakeye retarded fin bombs. USMC photo via CAPT Hook (Wynn Foster). BuNo 152061, QG-02 and TER's. Gary Verver Collection. 12OCT77: Dragons Syhawk BuNo 155018, ME-12, based at Alameda, CA parked on the ramp. Gary Verver Collection. 1977-87: VMA-131 A-4E 152061, QG-02, location unknown, photographer unknown. MAR78: Willow Grove based Diamondbacks Skyhawk BuNo 151036, QG-07, parked on the ramp at Dobbins AFB. Bill Curry. 1978: BuNo 151044, QG-05, A-4E taxiing. Gary Verver Collection. Date unknown: BuNo 151044, QG-05 parked. Gary Verver Collection. 19OCT78: BuNu 152081 is used as a backdrop for unit photo. Photo provided by Bob Beavis. JUN78: right side view of VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 151090, QG-12, on the ramp at an unknown location. USMC A-6A Intruder in the background is BuNo 152902 and the XF F-14 Tomcat belongs to VX-4. Photo by P. Stevens. 19OCT78: BuNu 151984 close-up during unit photo. Photo provided by Bob Beavis. 1979: A-4M Skyhawk BuNo. 158182. VMA-131 QG 00, "Old Double Nuts" needed an engine change while on deployment at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona during February or March 1979. 18MAR79: 18 March 1979 MARTD Willow Grove Skyhawk BuNo 155103, QZ-000, parked on the line. VMA-131 Diamondbacks Skyhawk BuNo 152081, QG-04, at left. Gary Verver Collection. MAY79: Right side view of VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 151030, QG-08, on the flight line. H&MS-49 Det Willow Grove TA-4J BuNo 155103, tailcode QZ, at right. Gary Verver Collection. MAY79: Diamondbacks Skyhawk 151090, QG-02, on the flight-line. Gary Verver Collection. Date unknown: BuNo 151090, QG-12, A-4E VMA-311 parked. Gary Verver Collection. 1979: BuNo 149989, QG-10, A-4E parked. Gary Verver Collection. MAY79: Diamondbacks Skyhawk BuNo 151044, QG-05, parked on the ramp. A-4E BuNo 151070 in the background. Dave Steinbacker. Diamondbacks Skyhawk 151090, QG-02, parked on the flight line. Gary Verver Collection. 16AUG79: left side view of VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 152081, QG-04, on the ramp at an unknown location with a MER and six practice bombs on #2 and a centerline drop tank. VMA-131 A-4E QG-12 at left. Photographer unknown. AUG79: BuNo 151194, A-4E, QG-07 on the Willow Grove ramp. Gary Verver Collection. November 1979: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 152061, QG-02, NAS Willow Grove. Official U.S. Navy photo. Circa 1980:Diamondback Skyhawk BuNo 149989, QG-10, MARTD Willow Grove. Gary Verver Collection. 17JAN80: A-4E Skyhawk BuNo. 15000. A VMA-131 Diamondback Skyhawk A-4E QG 11 banks over the runway at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona. VMA-131 was on a det. to Yuma. Photograph by Harry S. Gann. Circa 1980: Diamondback Skyhawk BuNo 149989, QG-10, MARTD Willow Grove. 1980: Left front view of MARTD Willow Grove VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 150001, QG-11, tied down on the ramp. Gary Verver Collection. BuNo.149587 Diamondbacks Skyhawk, QG-100, at rest in the Arizona sunshine. Courtesy of T.R. Waddington, G. Verver collection. 17JAN81: BuNo 150001, QG-11, A-4E in-flight over the desert. Harry S. Gann photo, Gary Verver Collection. 16MAY81: right side view of VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 150121, QG-10, in a two-tone grey lo-vis paint scheme on the ramp at Chicago O’Hare. Photographer unknown. 16MAY81: right side view of VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 150121, QG-10, in a two-tone grey lo-vis paint scheme on the ramp at Chicago O’Hare. Photographer unknown. 16MAY81: right rear view of VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 150121, QG-10, in a two-tone grey lo-vis paint scheme on the ramp at Chicago O’Hare. Photographer unknown. 16MAY81: right front view of VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 150121, QG-10, in a two-tone grey lo-vis paint scheme on the ramp at Chicago O’Hare. Photographer unknown. 12JUL81: BuNo 151046, on the Willow Grove flight-line. Gary Verver Collection. 1981: BuNo 151036, QG-09, A-4E parked. Pic2. Gary Verver Collection. JUL81: BuNo 151036, QG-09, A-4E parked with her tail hook down. Gary Verver Collection. DEC81: BuNo 151038, QG-06, parked on the ramp at NAF Andrews. Rob Mignard. Date unknown: BuNo 151038, QG-06, A-4E parked. Pic1, Pic2. Gary Verver Collection. DEC82: Left rear view of VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4E Skyhawk 151030, QG-08, on the flight line in a low-vis gray scheme, December 1982. VP-31 Genies P-3C Orion BuNo 161411, RP-15, at left. Gary Verver Collection. 02DEC82: BuNo 151030, QG-08, on the Andrews AFB flight-line in low-vis gray. Photo by Ted Paskowski, G. Verver collection. 04DEC82: BuNo 152061, QG-02, parked on the ramp at Andrews AFB. Photo by Ted Paskowski, G. Verver collection. 29JAN83: BuNo 151030, QG-08, on the Andrews AFB flight-line in low-vis gray. Photo by Ted Paskowski, G. Verver collection. 29JAN83: 29 Jan 1983 BuNo 151038, QG-06, on the flight line in low-vis gray. Photo by Ted Paskowski, G. Verver collection. FEB83: Diamondbacks Skyhawk BuNo 149654, QG-04, parked on the ramp. W. Hartman, G. Verver collection. FEB83: right side view of VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4E Skyhawk BuNo 151090, QG-12, on the ramp with a centerline tank at Peterson AFB, Colorado Springs, CO. Photo by Werner Hartman. FEB83: VMA-131 A-4E BuNo 151090, QG-12. Photo from W. Hartman, G. Verver Collection. 24JUL83: Left front view of Diamondbacks Skyhawk BuNo 151046, QG-00, on the Andrews AFB flight line in low-vis gray paint scheme. At left is VMAQ-2 EA-6B ICAP I Prowler BuNo 160432, tailcode CY. Photo by Ted Paskowski, G. Verver collection. 24JUL83: BuNo 152061, QG-02, parked on the ramp. Photo by Ted Paskowski, G. Verver collection. AUG83: BuNo 152072, QG-15, on the flight line. Gary Verver Collection. 29JAN84: 29 Jan 1984 BuNo 150001, QG-11, tied down on the ramp. Photo by Ted Paskowski, G. Verver collection. 29JAN84: Diamondbacks Skyhawk BuNo 149654, QG-04, parked on the ramp. Photo by Ted Paskowski, G. Verver collection. MAY84: BuNo 152072, QG-15, on the flight line. Photo by John Binford, Gary Verver Collection. AUG85: BuNo 152070, QG-01. Gary Verver Collection. 1986: BuNo158414, QG-10, on the ramp. Gary Verver Collection. JUL86: Diamondbacks Skyhawk BuNo 152072, QP-15, being towed across the ramp. Gary Verver Collection. 26JUL86: BuNo 152072, an A-4E, on display at a Dayton OH air show. W. Munzenmeir. 26JUL86: 26 JUL 1986: BuNo 152072, QP-15, parked on the ramp. W. Munzenmaier. BuNo.160024. Wynn Foster (Captain Hook). BuNo 160024, QG-00, A-4M parked with access doors open for servicing. Gary Verver Collection. JUL87: Diamondbacks Skyhawk 151046, QG-00, on the flight line. Gary Verver Collection. 24JUL88: right front view of VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M BuNo 158435, QG-14, with a centerline tank on the ramp at Dayton, OH in a lo-vis grey paint scheme. Photo from W. Munzenmaier. 1988: BuNo 160024, QG-15 A-4M with red carpret laid out beside it. Gary Verver Collection. 1988: BuNo158414, QG-10, on the ramp. Gary Verver Collection. 14APR90: VMA-131 A-4M BuNo 158166, QG-02, 14 APR 1990 at NAS Willow Grove. Photographer unknown from Verver collection. APR90: BuNo 159788, QG-00, on the ramp. Gary Verver Collection. 20JUL91: A-4M Skyhawk BuNo. 160024. A-4M Skyhawk BuNo. 160024 side number QG 06 of VMA-131 "Diamondbacks", USMC Reserve, based at Naval Air Station Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. Photographed at Naval Air Station Atlanta in standard Tactical Paint Scheme grays, complete with low-viz "diamond stripe". From a photograph by Frank J. Mirande. 12AUG90: BuNo 158161, QG-04, assigned to MAJ Wilson parked on the ramp. Gary Verver Collection. 12AUG90: left front view of Diamondbacks Skyhawk BuNo 158161, QG-04, assigned to MAJ Wilson parked on the ramp. Gary Verver Collection. 12AUG90: left side view of Diamondbacks Skyhawk BuNo 158161, QG-04, assigned to MAJ Wilson parked on the Willow Grove ramp. Gary Verver Collection. 12AUG90: right front view of Diamondbacks Skyhawk BuNo 158179, QG-05, assigned to MAJ Carite parked on the flight line. Gary Verver Collection. 12AUG90: head-on view of Diamondbacks Skyhawk BuNo 158179, QG-05, assigned to MAJ Carite parked on the ramp. Gary Verver Collection. 12AUG90: close-up nose section view of Diamondbacks Skyhawk BuNo 158179, QG-05, assigned to MAJ Carite parked on the ramp. Gary Verver Collection. 12AUG90: BuNo 158179, QG-05, assigned to MAJ Carite parked on the ramp at Willow Grove. Gary Verver Collection. 12AUG90: left front close-up nose section view of Diamondbacks Skyhawk BuNo 158179, QG-05, assigned to MAJ Carite parked on the ramp at Willow Grove. Gary Verver Collection. 12AUG90: close-up view of Diamonbacks Skyhawk BuNo 158414, wing mounted TER & ordnance. Gary Verver Collection. Circa 1990: Pic1, Pic2. Col Bob "Beaver" Beavis on the ladder of BuNo 158161, QG-04 of VMA-131. Photo from Bob Beavis. 29APR92: VMA-133 A-4M BuNo 158155, ME-05, at NAS Alameda. Copyright photo by W. Munzenmaier. 1987-1992: VMA-131 A-4M BuNo 158161, QG-04, undated. From W. Munzenmaier. 12 Aug 1990: close-up tail section view of Diamonbacks Skyhawk BuNo 158414, tail code QG. Gary Verver Collection. 1992: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 160024, QG-00, location unknown. 01 MAY 1992: Right front view of VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 159788, QG-00, on the ramp in a lo-vis grey scheme with a elec. cart and a maintainer in the cockpit, 01 May 1992. Photo by Tom Kaminski. 21 June 1992: BuNo 158179, apparently being salvaged for parts. second shot of BuNo 158179, apparently being salvaged for parts. Gary Verver Collection. JUL92: BuNo 158161, Diamondbacks Skyhawk BuNo 158161, QG-104, parked on the ramp. Gary Verver Collection. JUL92: BuNo 159780, QG-12, parked on the ramp at Wilkes Barre, PA. Gary Verver Collection. JUL92: BuNo 159780, QG-12, parked on the ramp. Gary Verver Collection. JUL92: July 1992 right side tail section view of Diamondbacks Skyhawk BuNo 159780, QG-12, parked on the ramp. Gary Verver Collection. 12NOV92: VMA-131 A-4M BuNo 159779, QG-07, 12 NOV 1992. Photo by P. Becker from Verver collection. JUN93: BuNo 159781, QG-08, parked on the ramp with a centerline tank. Photo by Joe Cupido. Rare, possibly only, series of photos of decorated protective headgear. 1998: "BladeTwoOne" seated in what would become a treasure of the Delaware Valley Historical Aircraft Association: "VIPER 01". Photo by Sgt. B.R.Edoo, VMA-131 1998. 21JUN92: BuNo 159788, QG-00, parked on the ramp with the hook down. Gary Verver Collection. JUN93: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 158155, QG-01, coming in for a landing at NAS Fallon. Name below the cockpit is LTCOL “Ax" Feltenberger, name on the nose gear door is SSGT D.M. Smalls & below that Dave Nice. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN93: right side view of VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 158155, QG-01, taxiing at NAS Fallon with an ACMI on #1. Name below the cockpit is LTCOL “Ax” Feltenberger, name on the nose gear door is SSGT D. M. Smalls & below that Dave Nice. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN93: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 158155, QG-01, in-flight with Mk-82 Snakeyes over a NAS Fallon range with VMA-131 A-4M BuNo 160024, QG-00. Name below the cockpit is LTCOL “Ax” Feltenberger. QG-00 has COL W. A. Simpson, Commanding Officer, MAG-49. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN93: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 158155, QG-01, cockpit close-up as it comes in for a landing at NAS Fallon. Name below the cockpit is LTCOL “Ax” Feltenberger, name on the nose gear door is SSGT D.M. Smalls & below that Dave Nice. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN93: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk formation with Snakeyes on the wing stations near NAS Fallon, top to bottom BuNo 160024, QG-00, BuNo 158155, QG-01, and BuNo 158479, QG-05. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN93: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk formation with Snakeyes on the wing stations near NAS Fallon, top to bottom BuNo 160024, QG-00, BuNo 158155, QG-01, and BuNo 158479, QG-05. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN93: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk formation near NAS Fallon, top to bottom BuNo 160024, QG-00, BuNo 158155, QG-01, and BuNo 158479, QG-05. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. Date unknown: BuNo 159479, QG005 taxi. Gary Verver Collection. JUN93: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 159479, QG-05, taxiing at NAS Fallon with a FFAR ZUNI pod on #5, Snakeyes on #1, #2 and #4 and a centerline tank. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN93: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 159479, QG-05, taxiing at NAS Fallon with a napalm canister on #5, Snakeyes on #1, #2 and #4 and a centerline tank. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN93: VMA-131 A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 159779, QG-07, on the ramp with the hell hole doors open and a centerline tank in front of hangar #2 at NAS Fallon. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN93: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 159785, QG-09, taxiing at NAS Fallon, AMSI instrument on #4 and a centerline tank. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN93: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 159785, QG-09, at NAS Fallon, FAE ordnance. Name below the canopy is CAPT (????) & his call sign looks like Pokey. Name on the landing gear door is SGT J. A. Jerome & below that “Dog”. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN93: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 159785, QG-09, at NAS Fallon, FAE ordnance. Name below the canopy is CAPT (????) & his call sign looks like Pokey. Name on the landing gear door is SGT J. A. Jerome & below that “Dog”. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN93: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 159785, QG-09, taxiing at NAS Fallon with FAE ordnance. Name below the canopy is CAPT (????) & his call sign looks like Pokey. Name on the landing gear door is SGT J. A. Jerome & below that “Dog”. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN93: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk formation with Snakeyes on the wing stations near NAS Fallon, top to bottom BuNo 160024, QG-00, BuNo 158155, QG-01, and BuNo 158479, QG-05. Name below the canopy rail on QG-00 is COL W. A. Simpson, Commanding Officer, MAG-49. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN93: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 160024, QG-00, in-flight near Fallon, Snakeyes on the wing stations and a centerline tank. Name below the canopy is COL W. A. Simpson, Commanding Officer, MAG-49. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN93: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 160024, on final for NAS Fallon with the gear down and speed brakes open. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN93: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 160024, QG-00, in-flight near Fallon with Snakeyes on the wing stations and a centerline tank. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN93: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 160024, QG-00, in-flight near Fallon with Snakeyes on the wing stations and a centerline tank. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN93: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 160024, QG-00, on the NAS Fallon runway with Snakeyes on the wing stations and a centerline tank. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN93: VMA-131 Diamondbacks BuNo 160024, QG-00, on the NAS Fallon ramp with a cart of Mk-83 slicks in the foreground. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN93: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 160024, QG-00, taxis by the photographer at NAS Fallon with a FFAR ZUNI pod on #5, Snakeyes on #1, #2 & #4 and a centerline tank. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. 04JUN93: right side view of VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M BuNo 158422, QG-04, on the ramp at NAS Willow Grove in a lo-vis grey scheme. Photo by W. Munzenmaier. 1994: BuNo 158422, QG-04, A-4M on the ramp. Pic1, Pic2. : BuNo 158422, QG-04, manned up. Gary Verver Collection. JUN94: Jun 1994 BuNo 160024, QG-00, armed with napalm & iron bombs. Photo by Joe Cupido. JUN94: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 160024, QG-00, in-flight near MCAS Yuma with VMA-131 A-4M 158422, QG-04, with Snakeyes and FAE ordnance. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN94: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 160024, QG-00, in-flight near MCAS Yuma with VMA-131 A-4M 158422, QG-04, with Snakeyes and FAE ordnance. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN94: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 160024, QG-00, in-flight with a centerline tank near MCAS Yuma. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN94: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 160024, QG-00, in-flight with Snakeyes, FAE and a centerline tank near MCAS Yuma. Name below the canopy rail on is COL W. A. Simpson, Commanding Officer, MAG-49. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN94: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 160024, QG-00, in-flight with a center-line drop tank near MCAS Yuma. Name below the canopy is LTCOL G. E. Lake, Commanding Officer, VMA-131. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN94: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 160024, QG-00, taxiing with Snakeyes, napalm and a centerline tank at MCAS Yuma. Name below the canopy rail is COL W. A. Simpson, Commanding Officer, MAG-49. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN94: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 160024, QG-00, taxiing with Snakeyes, napalm and a centerline tank at MCAS Yuma. Name below the canopy is LTCOL G. E. Lake, Commanding Officer, VMA-131. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN94: flight-line next to BuNo 158155, QG-01, MCAS Yuma as iron bombs are readied for loading. Name below the canopy rail is COL W. A. Simpson, Commanding Officer, MAG-49. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN94: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 160024, QG-00, on the MCAS Yuma ramp with napalm and Snakeyes. Name below the canopy rail is COL W. A. Simpson, Commanding Officer, MAG-49. Pic2. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN94: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk tail shots of BuNo 160024, QG-00, BuNo 158155, QG-01 & BuNo 159785, QG-09, at MCAS Yuma. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN94: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 160024, QG-00, taxiing with napalm and Snakeyes at MCAS Yuma. Name below the canopy rail is COL W. A. Simpson, Commanding Officer, MAG-49. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN94: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 160024, QG-00, taxiing with napalm and Snakeyes at MCAS Yuma. Name below the canopy is LTCOL G. E. Lake, Commanding Officer, VMA-131. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN94: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 159785, QG-09, taxiing at MCAS Yuma, napalm on #1 and #5, Snakeyes on #2 and #4, and a centerline tank. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN94: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 159785, QG-09, taxiing at MCAS Yuma, napalm on #1 and #5, Snakeyes on #2 and #4, and a centerline tank. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN94: MA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 159779, QG-07, on the ramp with a centerline tank at MCAS Yuma with a pilot and ready to taxi. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN94: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 159779, QG-07, 20mm close-up, MCAS Yuma. They were noted for jamming during combat: and what was worse the Navy did nothing about it. When Israel took deliver of Skyhawks, they installed 30mm cannon. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN94: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 158173, QG-02, with Mk-81’s on the wing stations and a centerline tank taxiing at MCAS Yuma. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN94: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 158422, QG-04, in-flight near MCAS Yuma with FAE ordnance on the wing stations and a centerline tank. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN94: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 158422, QG-04, in-flight near MCAS Yuma with FAE ordnance on the wing stations and a centerline tank. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN94: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 158422, QG-04, in-flight near MCAS Yuma with FAE ordnance on the wing stations and a centerline tank. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN94: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 158422, QG-04, in the background, Snakeyes in the foreground at MCAS Yuma. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN94: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 158422, QG-04, on the ramp at MCAS Yuma as the ordies are loading napalm. Joe Cupido. JUN94: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 158422, QG-04, on the ramp at MCAS Yuma as the ordies are loading napalm. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN94: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 158155, QG-01, taxiing with VMA-131 A-4M BuNo 158173, QG-02, at MCAS Yuma. Name below the cockpit is LTCOL “Eagle” Lake, name on the nose gear door is SSGT D.M. Freese and below that Duck. The name below the cockpit on QG-02 is MAJ (????), SSGT S.T. Campbell on the nose gear door. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN94:VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 158155, QG-01, with Mk-82 Snakeye’s on #2 & #4 and napalm on #1 and #5 at MCAS Yuma. Name below the cockpit is LTCOL “Eagle” Lake, name on the nose gear door is SSGT D.M. Freese and below that Duck. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. JUN94: VMA-131 Diamondbacks A-4M Skyhawk BuNo 158155, QG-01, with Mk-82 Snakeye’s on #2 & #4 and napalm on #1 and #5 at MCAS Yuma. Name below the cockpit is LTCOL “Eagle” Lake, name on the nose gear door is SSGT D.M. Freese and below that Duck. Copyright photo by Joe Cupido. 1994: Col. George Lake with Double Nuts, last of the finest. A-4M retired from VMA-311 on June 22, 1994, last Marine Skyhawks. Pilot is COL George Lake. Photo by C.J. Smith 1994. AUG94: Aug 1994 tail section BuNo 159781 (at right) parked on the ramp. Gary Verver Collection. Aug 1994 BuNo 160024, QG-00, parked on the ramp. BuNo 159781 at right. Gary Verver Collection. BuNo 160024, QG-00, Viper parked on the ramp. John Binford. BuNo 160024, QG-00, A-4M of VMA-131. Pic1, Pic2, Pic3, Pic4, Pic5, Pic6. Gary Verver Collection. VMA-131 DIAMONDBACK A-4M BuNo. 158182 at the Delaware Valley Historical Aviation Association Willow Grove, PA. 15JUN96: left side view of Skyhawk BuNo 158182, restored and partially repainted before going on display. Close-up view of inert 500 lb. bomb on Skyhawk BuNo 158182, restored and partially repainted before going on display. The radar altimeter is in the white canoe shaped housing under the wing in the foreground. Gary Verver Collection. VMA-131 DIAMONDBACK A-4M BuNo. 158182. A-4M Skyhawk Bureau Number 158182, flew with VMA-131. This particular aircraft was delivered to the Marines in October 1971. 158182 also saw service with VMA-331 "Bumblebees," VMAT-102, VMA-214 "Black Sheep," MAG-42, and VMA-131 within MAG-49 prior to being stricken from service in June of 1994. This old gal escaped the smelter and has gone to Skyhawk heaven and immortality with the Delaware Valley Historical Aviation Association, Willow Grove, PA. VMA-131 A-4M BuNo. 158182 right front view of Diamondbacks Skyhawk BuNo 158182, QG 01, bombed up and ready for a mission. VMA-131 A-4M BuNo. 158182QG-01 WW-II recognition insignia incorporated in the Diamondbacks stripe. VMA-131 A-4M BuNo. 158182 QG-01 port side. VMA-131 A-4M BuNo. 158182. Closeup port squadron insignia. Photographs from Dan Teker. Right side view of Skyhawk BuNo 158182 on display at the Delaware Valley Historical Aircraft Association in the markings of the VMA-131 Diamondbacks. Photo from "Boom" Powell. Off-Duty Photos BuNo.160024 and admirers. |
A-4 Skyhawks Assigned to NAS Floyd Bennett Field, NY.
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A-4 Skyhawks Assigned to MARTD NAF Willow Grove, PA.
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Continue the Record
Were you there?
The VMA-131 record is built from photographs, names, memories, documents and corrections contributed by the people who were there. If you can add something, identify someone, correct a detail or tell a story that should not be lost, please add it to the record.
Story and correction messages currently go to the Skyhawk Association webmaster for review. Photograph contributions use the existing Skyhawk photo contribution workflow.
Diamondbacks source archive
Documents and accounts preserved from the VMA-131 community website. Original page links are included for context. Brian Putney and the VMA-131 contributors are credited for the source collection.
Jump to: The Diamondbacks and squadron record · Our Final Inspection · Diamondback Stories · USMC Stories · US Military and Related Stories · Tails of Aviation · Aircraft Photos · Squadron Mates Photos · Archives
The Diamondbacks and squadron record
Original: vma131.net/the-diamondbacks
Marine Attack Squadron VMA-131
Scoll down to view our Squadron or click other tabs above for additional information
Restored A4B at Floyd Bennet above. A4M flown from Willow Grove below.
About the Squadron
The Squadron
Squadron Commanding Officers
Throught Our Re-Establishment
Starting April 1958 and ending December 1998
Squadron Members
(who have stayed in contact with each other)
Report additions via email: 1965diamondback@gmail.com
Facebook Available for Members
https://www.facebook.com/groups/842759362527932/
NAS NY VMA-131 & other Old Timers Club
(Who have stayed in contact with each other)
Report additions via email:
Commanding Officers (docx)
Aviators and Mates (docx)
Old Timers Muster (docx)
Keep all here in your Thoughts and Prayers
LtCol R. Henshall was killed during AT, July 1963 at MCAS, Cherry Point
Capt. James H. Powell was Killed in a mid-air collision at MCAS El Toro, January 22, 1967
Capt. R Baker was killed durning takeoff, August 1979 at Willow Grove
We remenber and honor our Marines especially those who served at NAS New York and NAS Willow Grove. This not an offical list but compiled from input supplied by our squadron members. If you know of someone to add or can provide any missing informstion, send it to:
Posted 2025
See "Our Final Inspection" Page for prior Passings
Sick Bay
As reported by squadron mates:
Don Carey
See below for latest Details
Sick Bay Downloads
Scuttlebutt
See Downloads Below (SeeArehieved for old posts)
Posted 2024
Photographs (13)
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![375px-NAS Willow Grove-PA NAN3-48[1].jpg](https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/785a8637-3493-4b96-9f88-874e5fff472d/375px-NAS_Willow_Grove-PA_NAN3-48%5B1%5D.jpg)
Documents (35)
- A-4 Skyhawker VMA-131 Story - June 2023 (pdf)
- A-4 Skyhawk Documentary (docx)
- A-4 Retirement Flight Willow Grove (docx)
- A-4 Skyhawk's Last Hurrah (docx)
- A-4 Is Now The World’s Most Advanced Skyhawks (docx)
- A-Bomb Capability - Revived August 2022 (docx)
- Base Summary Willow Grove NAS (docx)
- Combat Aircraft, Skyhwk Salute (pdf)
- Draken A4Ns (docx)
- Floyd Bennett Field Today (docx)
- NAS Willow Grove History (docx)
- Roll of Honor Brick Donated By Old Timers Club (docx)
- USS Shangri La Flight Ops 1962 (4/2020) (docx)
- VMA-132 personnel transferred to VMA-132 Original Orders 13 April 1958 - June 2021 (pdf)
- VMA-131 with VMA132 Events (docx)
- DBP%20Commanding%20Officers%20Update.docx
- 1t%20Aviators%20and%20Mates.docx
- 1t%20Old%20Timers%20Muster.docx
- Throw a Nickel Poem (docx)
- We remenber and honor our Marines (docx)
- Printable We Remember and Honor Our Marines (docx)
- Passing of Bill Griffin (docx)
- Obituary Lt. Col. Peter Kunz (docx)
- Don Carey (docx)
- It's our 250th Birthday. See a Blast From The Past - November 2025 (docx)
- 2024 VMA-131 REUNION - August 2024 (docx)
- Squadron Logo - June 2024 (docx)
- 2024 Skyhawker Reunion (docx)
- Security Concerns!!! (docx)
- Obituary Chief Warren Officer Lewis W. Loeven, Jr - June 2024 (docx)
- Obitury of Cliff James Judkins III - May 2024 (docx)
- Obituary Gen. Alfred M Gray Jr. - March (docx)
- Obituary Ernest Stoukas - March (docx)
- Obituary Thomas Walsh - March (docx)
- Obituary of Lt. Col. Frederick C. Robinson - March 2024 (docx)
Our Final Inspection
Original: vma131.net/our-final-inspection
A Marines Final Inspection
Posted 2024
See "Our Final Inspection" Page for prior Passings
Posted 2023
Posted 2022
Posted 2021
Posted 2019 & 2020
Photographs (2)
Documents (41)
- Obituary Chief Warren Officer Lewis W. Loeven, Jr - June 2024 (docx)
- Obitury of Cliff James Judkins III - May 2024 (docx)
- Obituary Gen. Alfred M Gray Jr. - March (docx)
- Obituary Ernest Stoukas - March (docx)
- Obituary Thomas Walsh - March (docx)
- Obituary of Lt. Col. Frederick C. Robinson - March 2024 (docx)
- The Poem (docx)
- MajGen. Dennis Krupp Obituary - December 2023 (dotm) (PDF copy; )
- SgtMaj. Harry Crane Obituary 2003 - August 2023 (docx)
- LtCol. Brooks Dyer 85 Obituary - February 2023 (docx)
- Charles W. Oehlert Obituary - April 2023 (docx)
- VMA-131 Remembered - September 2022 (docx)
- Obituary Col..John R Powers - July 2022 (pdf)
- Obituary MSgt Anthony M. Pizza - April 2022 (docx)
- Obituart MGytGyn Thomas A. Christie - April 2022 (docx)
- Obituary RADM Horace MacVaugh III - February 2022 (docx)
- Obituary of Kenneth Drusch - January 2022 (docx)
- Passing of MGySgt Dick Polk - November 2021 (docx)
- BGen Jerry E. Ward Now Resting In Arlington National Cemetery - July (docx)
- Passing of Neal Mishik - July 2021 (docx)
- Obituary of MSgt Raymond Pucci - July (docx)
- Obituary of CW04 Robert J. Baumert Sr - July 2021 (docx)
- Passing of John F. Gawley -June 2021 (docx)
- Obituary Sgt Jack Putney - June 2021 (docx)
- Obituary MGySgt Donald Patrick O’Hanlon - May 2021 (docx)
- Obituary Sgt Major John R. Beckermeyer Jr. - February 2021 (docx)
- Obituary Albert J. Vicarelli - February2021 (docx)
- Obituary Col. John Warrendery - January 2021 (docx)
- ObituaryDorothy Schmidt Cole - January 2021 (docx)
- Passing of Jack Jordan - January - 2021 (docx)
- Obituary Eric Thomas Farrell - November 2020 (docx)
- Obituary Carl Carite Jr - November 2020 (docx)
- Brooks Dyer - April (docx)
- Obituary of Edmund A. Wickenheiser, Jr. - May 2019) (docx)
- Obituary of John A Elliott - May 2019 (docx)
- Obituary Sally Ann Putney - (March) (docx)
- Paul Anderson,s Mom -(March 2019) (docx)
- Obiturary Cartwright died yesterday at age 89 - March (docx)
- Neil Cronin's wife Marie passed - (March (docx)
- Lt. General Charles Chuck Pitman - Feburary (docx)
- Obituary Colonel Mitchell Paige (docx)
Diamondback Stories
Original: vma131.net/diamondback-stories
Diamondback Stories are submitted by our squadron mates.
Posted 2020 & Before
Photographs (2)
Documents (23)
- VMA-131 Remembered - September 2022 (docx)
- God Bless Corporal Schwartz - April 2024 (docx)
- Commercial Airline Military Support and One of Our Own - January 2023 (docx)
- VMA-131 Incident at Tent City MCAS Cherry Point 1970 (docx)
- Last Night Summer 1969 At Roosey Roads (docx)
- VMA-131 Attacks USN Carrier Group - January 2022 (docx)
- Some of our pilots did these types of training exercises! - Febraury 2022 (docx)
- Little Known Seat Shop Flight Line Prank - May 2021 (docx)
- Hot Fueling - February 2021 (docx)
- 55 Years ago today MARTD NY took on the Greenie Beanies - November 2020 (docx)
- A4 vs A7 Comments and link to article - November 2020 (docx)
- Green Marines of Paris Island in the sixties - November 2020 (docx)
- Earning the Title - April 2020 (docx)
- Thank You Our Motor Head Marines March 2020 (docx)
- A4 Restoration at NAS NY (docx)
- Earl Robert Smith Shares (docx)
- Ken Udcoff Shares His VMA-132 Memories (docx)
- Lineage of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 131 (pdf)
- VMA-131 1970 Callup (docx)
- My Best and Worst Libierties (docx)
- ZERO Velocity (docx)
- 4 July 1966 in the Barracks (docx)
- 1965 NAS Jacksonville Sick Bay Call (docx)
USMC Stories
Original: vma131.net/usmc-stories
Diamondback Stories are submitted by our squadron mates.
Posted 2021 & 2022
Posted 2020
Posted 2019
Photographs (2)
Documents (35)
- Green Marines of Paris Island in the sixties - November 2020 (docx)
- The Incredible Saga of OSS Col. - December 2022 (docx)
- RVN 1st 9th July 1967 - December 2022 (pdf)
- Down to One Marine - Sgt. Mitchell Paige - December 2022 (docx)
- Rescue at Hill 845 - December 2022 (docx)
- WWII Marine - December 2022 (docx)
- Sergeant Reckless - April 2022 (pdf)
- MCAS Miramar Haunted Hanger - December 2021 (docx)
- The U.S. Marines’ Mythic Fight at Belleau Wood - June 2021 (docx)
- Four-star Marine General’s Family Returns Ancient Bell to Japan - June 2-21 (docx)
- Eulogy For a Fighter Pilot - June 2021 (docx)
- Right Marine at the Right Place: Captain ‘Harry’ Baig - May 2021 (docx)
- Chuck Mawhinney - May 2021 (docx)
- A Fitting Gift For A Man Of Honor: George Shultz Marine - February 2021 (pdf)
- Beware of a Pissed Off Marine - February 2021 (docx)
- Colonel Donald Duke Stanton, USMC - February- 2021 (docx)
- An A4 Joyride Video - April (docx)
- Close Call Chosin - April (docx)
- Earning the Title PI Visit - April (docx)
- Fix Bayonets - May (docx)
- Marine Are Truly the Proud and the Few - March (docx)
- Marine A-4 Skyhawk Memorial Complete at Quiet Waters Ranch - June (docx)
- Legends about the Most Decorated Marine in US History - October (docx)
- Plane Captain Joyride Article - June (docx)
- The Man in the Door - March (docx)
- The Perfect Escape at Pickel Meadow -January (docx)
- To understand a Marine you must know -September (docx)
- USMC Earl Robert Smith Shares - January (docx)
- WWII Code Talkers (docx)
- Colonel Mitchell Paige/Medal of Honor (docx)
- Marine Aviation Tribute Tail (docx)
- The Tootie Roll Marines (docx)
- This Marine Was The American Sniper of the Vietnam War (docx)
- USMC is having an alarm clock sale (docx)
- When Marines Should Sing (docx)
US Military and Related Stories
Original: vma131.net/us-military-stories-plus
US Military & \ Related Stories
Posted 2022
Posted 2020 & 2021
Posted 2019
Photographs (2)
Documents (29)
- Blue Angles Aircraft - December 2022 (docx)
- Enlisted USN POW at NVN Hilton - December 2022 (docx)
- “Bubster” - April 2022 (docx)
- Coming Home 1945 - March 2022 (docx)
- Most Decorated Navy Enlisted Man - February 2022 (docx)
- WWII Superbomber’s Achilles’ Heel - June 2021 (docx)
- The 'Huey' - Legendary Workhorse of Vietnam - February 2021 (docx)
- WW II Normandy Invasion The Sixth of June - February 2021 (docx)
- 82nd Airborne Sainte-Mere-Eglise - January 2021 (docx)
- A4 Royal New Zealand Air Force 1970 - December 2021 (docx)
- AIRCRAFT LOSSES OF THE VIETNAM WAR - November (pdf)
- Citroen - March (docx)
- NavyAircraft US Marines Buffs-Photos - April (pdf)
- PERFECTLY TIMED MILITARY PHOTOGRAPHS - August (docx)
- This WWII Ghost Bomber Mysteriously Landed Itself - November (docx)
- Vietnam Air Losses and More Website - February (docx)
- WWII Tank Found - December (docx)
- WWII’s B-17 “All American” - November (docx)
- What a man... Adrian Carton de Wiart! - March (docx)
- God & 3 Mistakes at Pearl Harbor (docx)
- Greatest Beer Run Ever (docx)
- Gun Trucks of Viet Nam (docx)
- Japanese Pre-Surrender (docx)
- Japan's surrender in World War II (docx)
- Something you don't know about D-Day (docx)
- The Magic Carpet that flew everyone home 8/2020 (docx)
- This Day in 1945, Japan Released Me from a POW Camp (docx)
- Where Do We Get Such Young Men (docx)
- “Ok boys, put some clothes on those girls. We’re going home!” (docx)
Tails of Aviation
Original: vma131.net/tails-of-aviation
Tails of Aviation
Posted 2021
Posted 2020
Posted 2019
Photographs (2)
Documents (24)
- Marine Aviation Tribute Tail (docx)
- I'VE LOST MY RIO - May (docx)
- 1962 Shang Cruise -August (docx)
- A4 Shoots Down Mig - January (docx)
- Chu Lai Happenings - June (docx)
- Cold Blue Story & Movie - January (docx)
- Gunfighters on the prowl = March (docx)
- Innovative Soviet Fighter Ace - March (docx)
- The Perfect Escape at Pickel Meadow - February (docx)
- United States Marine Corps Aviation - October (docx)
- ADAK, the Rescue of Alfa Foxtrot 586 (docx)
- Buzz Job (docx)
- Chu Lai USAF Incident (docx)
- Great Airplane Photos And Even Better Quotes (docx)
- Helicoper to Submarine Landing (docx)
- His Parachute Got Stuck on the Plane 2/2020 (docx)
- “Ok boys, put some clothes on those girls. We’re going home!” (docx)
- Marine Pilot's (Cliff Juskins) Astonishing Story (docx)
- Marine Pilot's (Cliff Juskins) Astonishing Story (News Article) (docx)
- Skyraider Shoots down MIG (docx)
- The Lieutenant has a problem with Commanders (docx)
- Tall Tails - Two Stories (docx)
- The Fighter Plane That Shot Itself Down (docx)
- The Forgotten Hero of the Forgotten War (docx)
Aircraft Photos
Original: vma131.net/aircraft-photos
Scoll Down To See The Aircrafts
VMA-131 A4's Plus
Today's USMC Aircraft
AAI (Textron) RQ-7 Shadow (Unmanned)
AIRCRAFT LOSSES OF THE VIETNAM WAR
Losses Listed by Aircrraft (pdf)
AIRCRAFT LOSSES OF THE VIETNAM WAR 1962 - 1973 WEBSITE
Misc. Aviation Photos
2018 Skyhawker Reunion Pensacola Museum
For Navy and Marines Aircraft Buffs
2009 Blues and Bearcats 6/2020 (docx)
Navy Aircraft for US Marines Buffs-Photos Courtesy of John Wort 5/2020 (pps)
Photographs (21)
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Documents (4)
Squadron Mates Photos
Original: vma131.net/squadron-mates-photos-1
Scroll Down To See The Diamondbacks
Miscellaneous Photos Sent by Mates
1/8
A Diamondback's Wedding On 15 May 2021
The Invite!
Additional DDVAA photos sent by attendees
Posted January 2020 (docx)
DVHAA VMA 131 At Museum
01/39
DVHAA Photo At Squadron Dinner
DVHAA Golf Fund Rasier
01/16
Squadron Mates
NAS NY Old Timers 2017
Squadron Dinner Skyhawker Reunion 2018
Photographs (13)
-aa71f9b.jpg)
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Documents (1)
Archives
Original: vma131.net/archives
Diamondback's Scuttlebutt
See Downloads Below (SeeArehieved for old posts)
See Downloads Below (Arehieved 2023
See Downloads Below (Archived 2020)
Sick Bay
As reported by squadron mates:
Davis Muir
Bill Reddan
Brooks Dyer Udate
Neil Cronin
See below for latest Details
Archived 2019
Sick Bay Downloads
Click For 4th Of July Fly Over Video (Use Full Screen)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I3l151JQa3Y (docx)
Click For Our Christmas Video (Use Full Screen)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y9r6plyLisw (docx)
http://worriersanonymous.org/Share/Mansions.htm (docx)
Click For Memorial Message Featuring "The Spitfire" That A
https://youtu.be/mgkqWsGGUwY?si=e0pD_qHKoQFgEIi4 (docx)
Photographs (4)
Documents (26)
- Roll of Honor Brick Donated By Old Timers Club (docx)
- A4 Restoration at NAS NY (docx)
- 2009%20Blues%20and%20Bearcats.docx
- DVHAA Fund Raising - July 2023 (docx)
- Ralph P. DeVitto has reconnected - January 2023 (docx)
- Donald P O’Hanlon Rememberance Day - April 2022 (docx)
- Oldtimers Club of VMA-131 - October 2021 (docx)
- DVHAA - Golf Outing - June 2021 (docx)
- Ralph P. DeVitto has reconnected - June 2021 (docx)
- Old Timers 2020 Annual Report -December (pdf)
- Old Timers Club News Letter - February (docx)
- Old Timers Update - September (docx)
- 2021 Skyhawker Reunion - June (docx)
- DVHAA 20 SEPT 2019 Ron West (docx)
- 2019 Old Timers Meeting and new Members (docx)
- Water at Camp Lejeune (docx)
- DVHAA Wings of Freedom Golf Tournament Willow Grove Update (docx)
- NAS Willow Grove Tee Shirts (docx)
- Venessa's Quuestion About her Father (docx)
- Answer to Venessas Question (docx)
- HMH-772 Reunion (docx)
- David Muir (docx)
- Bill Reddan (docx)
- Brooks Dyer Udate (docx)
- Neil Cronin (docx)
- !%20Merry%20Christmas%20Wishes%20From%20The%20Diamondback.docx