Keeping the Peace

This volume covers the squadron's actions from its reactivation as a Marine Air reserve squadron in 1946 to the end of the Cold War in 1991.

The book is now available. Click here to order your copy!

Volume Three will cover the years 1992 to 23 April 2020 - the day the squadron was deactivated.

"Steve Dixon’s history of 251 should be required reading by any Marine who wants to be a squadron commander and a copy ought to go with the colors at a change of command. It reveals the evolution and strength of the USMC Air–Ground Team and is an exceptional story about all the Marines who surround folks who live in flight suits.” — LtCol. Joe “Leper” Mavretic USMC (Ret), Commander of VMFA-251 1973–75.

"This work has obviously been extensively researched and it is written in an engaging style that really captures the sense of time and place. Once again, Steve Dixon has produced a comprehensive slice of VMFA-251’s history. This work has obviously been extensively researched and it is written in an engaging style that really captures the sense of time and place. Once again, Steve Dixon has produced a comprehensive slice of VMFA-251’s history." - Neil A. Cummings, GySgt. USMC, VMFA-251 from 1976-1981.

"Well researched. Well written. Steven Dixon...has a passion for its history, and does a masterful job in following their exploits, trials, and triumphs from their World War II and Korean War records and on through, and to the end of, the Cold War." ~The Journal of the Air Force Historical Foundation

"...a welcome addition to literature of specific Marine Corps squadrons..." ~Naval Aviation News