Persian Gulf it cross-decked to and began flying combat missions in support of the 2003 invasion of Iraq. During this time, the squadron surpassed 50,000 mishap-free flight hours. VMA-223 deployed to Iraq late in the summer of 2005 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. During a combat mission over Iraq on February 10, 2006 the squadron surpassed the 60,000 Class A mishap-free hours mark. This milestone is even more impressive considering the maintenance and safety issues associated with the AV-8B aircraft. Starting in October 2011, to April 2012 VMA-223 was deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Future Plans and current aircraft flown As of March 2022,VMA-223 still operates the AV-8B Harrier II. Squadron aces In USN and USMC aviation squadrons, a flying ace or fighter ace is a naval aviator or naval flight officer credited with shooting down five or more enemy aircraft during aerial combat. The following Marines from VMA-223 have been credited with more than five victories: In the media Three Harriers from VMA-223 and their pilots were used in the 1994 film True Lies. Two AV-8B Harriers from VMA-223 were utilized in the flyover of the NASCAR race in Bristol, Tennessee on August 21, 2010. See also United States Marine Corps Aviation List of active United States Marine Corps aircraft squadrons List of inactive United States Marine Corps aircraft squadrons Citations References Bibliography Carl, Marion, USMC. Pushing the Envelope: The Career of Fighter Ace and Test Pilot Marion Carl.. Annapolis, Maryland: Naval Institute Press, 1994. . Jones, 1stLt. Brett A, USMC. A History of Marine Attack Squadron 223. Washington, D.C.: History and Museums Division, Headquarters, United States Marine Corps, 1978. PCN 19000413900. External links Detailed WWII History 223