About this Unit
The 1st Marine Logistics Group (1st MLG) was activated on July 1, 1947, as the 1st Combat Service Group at Camp Pendleton, California. Throughout its history, the unit has provided critical logistical support to Marine forces in major conflicts, including the Korean War, Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Renamed several times, it became the 1st Marine Logistics Group in 2005, reflecting its expanded mission of providing comprehensive supply, maintenance, transportation, health services, and support to the I Marine Expeditionary Force. Today, the 1st MLG remains a vital component of U.S. Marine Corps operations, ensuring combat readiness and sustainment across the globe.
Historical Facts
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World War II Origins: The 1st Marine Logistics Group (1st MLG) traces its roots to the 1st Combat Service Group, activated in August 1947 at Camp Pendleton, but its predecessor units provided crucial support during the Pacific campaigns in World War II.
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Korean War Support: The unit played a vital role in logistics and supply during the Korean War, ensuring Marines were equipped and sustained throughout the harsh conditions, including the Chosin Reservoir campaign.
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Vietnam War Contributions: 1st MLG's predecessor units provided essential logistical support to Marine combat forces in Vietnam, establishing supply lines, maintenance, and medical services in a challenging environment.
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Name Change and Modernization: In October 1976, the unit was redesignated as the 1st Force Service Support Group (1st FSSG) as part of a broader modernization of Marine logistics capabilities.
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Operation Desert Storm: During the Gulf War, 1st FSSG deployed to Saudi Arabia, providing critical support for the rapid buildup and successful execution of Operation Desert Storm in 1991.
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Deployment to Iraq and Afghanistan: The unit has been heavily involved in both Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, supporting Marine Expeditionary Forces with logistics, engineering, and medical services.
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Humanitarian Missions: 1st MLG has participated in numerous humanitarian missions, including disaster relief in the Philippines after Typhoon Haiyan in 2013, showcasing its versatility beyond combat operations.
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Adoption of the Motto “Excellence, Innovation, Strength”: The group’s motto reflects its commitment to delivering top-tier logistical support under all conditions.
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Technological Advancements: 1st MLG has been at the forefront of integrating new technologies into Marine Corps logistics, including advanced supply chain management, medical evacuation techniques, and unmanned logistics vehicles.
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Unit Insignia and Symbolism: The 1st MLG’s insignia features a blue diamond and a red "1," symbolizing support to the 1st Marine Division and the group's proud heritage within the Marine Corps.
