The squadron was originally formed on May 1, 1942 at Marine Corps Air Station Ewa, Hawaii as Marine Scout Bombing Squadron 233 (VMSB-233) flying the SBD-4 Dauntless. They deployed overseas in December 1942 on board the seaplane tender USS Wright and first debarked at Espiritu Santo. From December 25, 1942 until February 8, 1943 they operated from Henderson Field on Guadalcanal as part of the Cactus Air Force. They were reorganized as Marine Torpedo Bombing Squadron 233 (VMTB-233) on May 22, 1943 but the official re-designation of the squadron did not take place until June 13, when they had returned to the United States. From August until October 29, 1943, the squadron again operated from Henderson Field. Following the Battle of New Georgia the squadron was moved to Munda in New Georgia to conduct raids that would help cut off the Japanese garrison at Rabaul. While in the New Georgia area, they also operated from Piva Airfield and Torokina Airfield.

LAMALE, Paul E, CAPT, O-011290, USMC, from Pennsylvania, location New Britain Island, date of loss January 30, 1944 + LAMALE, Paul E., Captain, USMCR. Parents, Rev. and Mrs. Charles E. Lamale, Box 307, Sharon, Pa + LAMALE, Paul Evans, 11290, VMTB-233, MAG-24, 1st MAW, FMF, New Britain, January 31, 1945, killed in action + LAMALE, Paul Evans, Captain, O-011290, USMC, from Pennsylvania, Manila American Cemetery

Body Not Recovered

Paul Evans Lamale