During World War II, Marine Fighting Squadron (VMF) 321 enjoyed a brief, but successful, career as one of the many such units which contributed to the Allied victory in the Pacific. However, where many of its sister squadrons eventually disappeared during the postwar demobilization, VMF-321 was reborn at Naval Station Anacostia on the outskirts of the nation's capital as the first Marine Air Reserve fighter squadron, a role in which it continues to the present day. The Reservist's role—whatever his service, but especially that of the air Reservist—is sometimes hard for the regulars and civilian population to understand, much less appreciate. While on the face of it, the Reservist appears to have the best of both worlds, he treads a thin line between his normal civilian job and family life, and his dedicated participation in his country's defense. Even though the air Reservist obviously enjoys continuing his association with military aviation, and is well paid for his time and accumulated skills, he knows he may be called upon during national crises. Such was the case during World War II and Korea. Many Reservists paid the ultimate price for their dedication; others stood by ready to fill in when called.
