VMF-251 The Buccaneers
From AHWiki
Squadron History
VMF-251 was founded in November, 2006 by three Rook pilots; Saxman, ScrapMtl and xREAPERx, who all shared a love of the F4U Corsair. The Buccaneers are semi-historical, as there was a VMF-251 that saw combat during WWII--first as VMO-251 during the Battle of Guadalcanal and later as VMF-251 Satan's Messengers--but do not have a strong link to the original squadron. Rather, VMF-251 choses to reflect the typical Marine Fighting Squadron operating in the Pacific Theater of Operations during WWII. Initially the squadron was primarily active in the Main Arena before it was later split into Early, Mid and Late-war, at which point they primarily remained in the Late War Arena. VMF-251 has participated in several Snapshot events, and beginning on November 30, 2007, joined participation in Friday Squad Ops where they remain active.
Squadron Leadership and Organization
VMF-251 is currently commanded by squadron founder Saxman, who primarily handles operations of the squadron during FSO events, as his flying time has decreased. CpMorgan serves as Executive Officer, with 1Duke1 as squadron Training Officer. MEF4UD, Drazz and HAMMERR round out the command staff as flight leaders. Rank within the squad follows USMC ranking, and is determined by a combination of flying ability, seniority, and role within the squadron. Flight Leaders carry the rank of Captain, and Section Leaders the rank of 1st Lieutenant. Situational exceptions do exist, based on roster turnout and other factors. New recruits into the squadron are listed under the Roster with the rank of Warrant Officer 1, and are considered non-roster "invitees." They aren't on the Main Arena roster, but are considered part of the squadron. This does include a full invitation to the Special Events Arena roster due to the requirements of uniform in FSO events. As recruits are passed on a variety of criteria as evaluated by Training Officer 1Duke1 they progress through the Warrant Officer ranks (WO1, and CWO2-5). Once a recruit has passed all training and has been officially invited into the squadron they are promoted to a minimum rank of 2nd Lieutenant.
Motto
Chicks dig gullwings!
Mission
The goal of VMF-251 is to simulate the typical USMC squadrons that fought in the Pacific Theater during WWII. A primary focus is on teamwork and cooperation, with the goal of bringing as many pilots home in a sortie as possible. The squadron has recently begun training in wingman tactics and formation maneuvers which all squadron members and recruits are expected to become proficient in.
Ride
The primary ride of VMF-251 is the Chance/Vought F4U-1A Corsair. The squadron also frequently uses the F4U-4 for air-to-air, and occasionally air to ground missions. The F4U-1D and 1C are also commonly flown for strike missions. The B-25H is another favorite of the squadron, and is frequently used for ground attack sorties when more firepower is needed than the Corsairs can offer. Other aircraft are also flown as need and whimsy dictates.
Requirements
VMF-251 has the following requirements for prospective members:
- A preference for the F4U Corsair as a primary ride, however it should be noted that exclusive use of the Corsair is not required. Some members do so out of preference, but many will fly other aircraft as well.
- Paying membership
- An interest in teamwork and cooperation
- US time zone preferable
Squadron Operations
VMF-251 primarily flies for the Rooks in the Late War Main Arenas. Occasionally members may go to Mid or Early War, and some spend time in Dueling, and may change to another country to fly with friends on that side. The main squad night is held on Saturdays, officially at 9pm EST but often earlier. Additionally, the squadron generally joins together when more than one member is online. Training is held on Wednesdays, also at 9pm EST. On Friday nights at 11pm EST the squadron participates in FSO in the Special Events Arenas. Other special events, such as snapshots, are generally announced ahead of time either on the squadron forum or via e-mail, including date and time of the event. Participation in FSO or other special events is not mandatory, but encouraged.
Currently, VMF-251 does not fly as a squadron in Axis vs. Allies.
Recruiting
VMF-251 is currently recruiting members for both the Main Arenas and the FSO roster. Prospective recruits are expected to fill out a recruiting form on the squadron website.
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