NAVAL AIR SYSTEMS COMMAND, PATUXENT RIVER, MD: A retired and demilitarized AV-8B Harrier II+ was inducted into the Hickory Aviation Museum in the “First in Flight” state of North Carolina on July 15, 2024. This aircraft, BUNO 164560, entered service in 1994 and flew with Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 231, 542, and 223, logging 6,888 flight hours in support of multiple Marine Expeditionary Unit deployments, Operation Iraqi Freedom deployments, humanitarian efforts and Request for Forces. “This is a unique opportunity to preserve and share a vital chapter in aviation history while playing a valuable role in inspiring future generations,” said Col. Mark Amspacher, AV-8B Weapon Systems Program Office (PMA-257) Program Manager. “I hope this piece of Marine Corps history and embodiment of innovation, courage and dedication motivates children to consider a career in aviation and service within the Marine Corps.” PMA-257, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps, Marine Aircraft Group (MAG)14, and VMA-223 oversaw the comprehensive process of demilitarizing the aircraft and ensured it was safe to display. VMA-223 Commanding Officer Lt. Col. John Cumbie, based in Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, flew the aircraft to the museum where visitors can learn about the aircraft’s unique engineering design and capabilities. The […]
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