About Vella Lavella Island

The sea around the island was the site of the Naval Battle of Vella Lavella in World War II. The Land Battle of Vella Lavella took place from 15 August to 9 October 1943.

During World War II, Vella Lavella was the home base for VMF-214 (the "Black Sheep," led by Gregory Boyington). For convenience, the TV series Baa, Baa, Black Sheep renamed the island to "Vella La Cava."