Marine Attack Squadron 231 (VMA-231), known as the "Ace of Spades," is the oldest active Marine Corps squadron, established on February 8, 1919.  Throughout its history, VMA-231 has participated in numerous conflicts, including World War II, the Gulf War, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. The squadron has operated various aircraft, including the SB2U Vindicator, SBD Dauntless, F4U Corsair, Vought VE-7F, AV-8A Harrier, and currently, the AV-8B Harrier II.   Based at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, VMA-231 continues to provide close air support and remains a vital component of Marine Corps aviation. 

The squadron's insignia, the famous Ace of Spades, was designed by then 2nd Lieutenant Hayne D. Boyden, who was a member of the squadron. The distinctive emblem bore the letters "A" and "S". As conceived by Boyden, the ace being the first card in a suit stood for "First" while "A" and "S" represented the words "Air" and "Squadron".