VMA-542 Returns From Iraq Deployment

Marine Attack Squadron 542 returned Nov. 20 from a six-month tour in Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom II.

Their mission was to provide close air support to Marines on the ground in the vicinity of Fallujah and Ramadi, Iraq. The squadron flew approximately 150 sorties a week with their AV-8B Harriers. Their support of Marines on the ground was vital to their success.

Capt. Sam Schoolfield, safety officer with VMA-542, said the VMA-542 pilots and mechanics did their job well.

"The pilots deployed precision guided bombs, such as the laser guided Mavericks, against the Iraqi insurgents," he said.

The most challenging task for the Marines of VMA-542 was the constant support they gave to the Marines on the ground and the constant maintenance that was required to keep the planes running.

"We operated mostly at night," said Schoolfield. "This meant that the Marines who worked on the planes had to endure intense sweltering heat during the daytime in order to maintain the planes."

Schoolfield attributed much of the squadron's success to the work non-commissioned officers did in managing and taking care of their Marines.

"Most of the Marines were already in their second deployment," said Schoolfield. "Because of their experience, they executed the missions with great success. Thankfully, we had no mishaps or safety (issues) to speak of, and I'm proud of that."

The maintenance crew is a vital part of the squadron. Their effort in getting the planes in the air was critical to VMA-542's success. The crew worked seven days a weak in blistering heat for hours at a time in order to ensure the mission was accomplished.

"We definitely accomplished our mission," said Staff Sgt. James Reaves, administrative chief. "The maintenance crew did an excellent job and pulled together. We made sure the jets were fully operational and got the job done."

Every Marine in the squadron did their part and ensured they were able to return home to see their friends and families.

"It feels great to be back," said Gunnery Sgt. Donald Hodge, quality assurance chief for VMA-542. "It was a team effort and our overall performance in doing our jobs was great."

Lt. Col. Don Sterling had a special surprise waiting for him on the flightline. His newborn son, who is only a few weeks old, and his wife were there to see him.

"I remember descending and seeing Cherry Point for the first time was intense," Said Sterling. "Knowing that my wife and son were waiting for me to come home was a great feeling."

FMI: www.usmc.mil