About this Unit
The **1st Force Service Regiment (1st FSR)** was activated in 1947 and later re-designated as the **1st Force Service Support Group (1st FSSG)**, providing vital logistical and combat support to the U.S. Marine Corps. During the Vietnam War, it was reorganized as the **Force Logistics Command (FLC)** in 1967 to support III Marine Amphibious Force operations, managing supply, transportation, engineering, medical, and maintenance functions. The FLC played a crucial role in sustaining Marine operations throughout the conflict until the U.S. withdrawal in 1971. After Vietnam, the unit evolved into the modern **1st Marine Logistics Group**, continuing its legacy of support in subsequent conflicts.
Historical Facts
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Origins as 1st Force Service Regiment: The 1st Force Service Regiment (1st FSR) was activated in August 1947 at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, providing critical logistical support to Fleet Marine Force units.
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Vietnam War Transformation: In 1966, the unit deployed to South Vietnam, where it was redesignated as the 1st Force Service Regiment, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific, and played a pivotal role in supporting Marine operations throughout the conflict.
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Birth of Force Logistics Command (FLC): As the Vietnam War intensified, 1st FSR was reorganized and renamed Force Logistics Command in 1967, becoming the largest Marine logistics command in history, with over 25,000 personnel.
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Logistical Innovations: 1st FSR/FLC pioneered the use of helicopter resupply missions ("vertical replenishment"), revolutionizing how ammunition and supplies reached forward-deployed units in difficult terrain.
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Red Beach Base Area: FLC established its headquarters at the massive Red Beach Base Area near Da Nang, which served as the nerve center for Marine logistics in I Corps Tactical Zone.
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Operation Frequent Wind: In April 1975, FLC played a supporting role in the final evacuation of Saigon, providing crucial logistics and coordination during Operation Frequent Wind.
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Medal of Honor Connection: Several Marines supported by FLC, including Medal of Honor recipient Sgt. Alfredo Gonzalez, received critical supplies and support during actions for which they were decorated.
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Post-Vietnam Restructuring: After the Vietnam War, FLC was deactivated and the 1st FSR was reactivated, later evolving into today’s 1st Marine Logistics Group, which continues the legacy of expeditionary logistics.
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Legacy of Support: The motto "Service to the Front" symbolized 1st FSR/FLC’s unwavering commitment to ensuring Marines at the tip of the spear were never left without food, fuel, or ammunition.
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Unit Insignia and Heritage: The distinctive insignia of 1st FSR/FLC, featuring a red diamond and gold anchor, is still honored by current Marine logistics units, preserving a proud heritage of service and sacrifice.
