Marine Observation Squadron 1 (VMO-1) was activated in July 1943 during World War II, providing aerial observation and artillery spotting for Marine ground forces in the Pacific Theater. The squadron flew a variety of aircraft, including the OY-1 Sentinel, supporting campaigns such as Saipan, Tinian, and Okinawa. After the war, VMO-1 was based at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina, transitioning to helicopters and later the OV-10 Bronco for reconnaissance and light attack missions. The unit served with distinction through the Cold War and participated in operations such as Desert Storm before being deactivated in 1993.