About this Unit
The 2nd Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company (2nd ANGLICO), Fleet Marine Force (FMF), was originally activated in 1950 at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, to provide specialized fire support coordination and liaison capabilities for Marine Air-Ground Task Forces and allied units. Throughout its history, 2nd ANGLICO has played a critical role in integrating naval gunfire, close air support, and artillery fires in support of joint and coalition operations, including deployments during the Cold War, Operation Desert Storm, and the Global War on Terrorism. The unit is renowned for its expertise in supporting unconventional warfare and working alongside partner nation forces. Today, 2nd ANGLICO continues to serve as a vital asset for the U.S. Marine Corps, ensuring the effective employment of supporting arms across a range of military operations.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: The lineage of ANGLICO units traces back to the Joint Assault Signal Companies (JASCOs) formed during World War II, which facilitated coordination of naval gunfire and close air support for amphibious operations.
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Established in 1950: The 2nd ANGLICO (Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company) was officially activated in 1950 at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, to provide firepower coordination and liaison to Marine units and allied forces.
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"Red Death" Nickname: 2nd ANGLICO earned the nickname "Red Death" during the Korean War due to their red radio antennae and their effectiveness in directing devastating fire support.
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First in Vietnam: 2nd ANGLICO was the first ANGLICO unit deployed to Vietnam, providing critical support to Republic of Korea (ROK) Marine and Army units, as well as other allied forces.
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Joint and Allied Operations: 2nd ANGLICO specializes in working with allied and coalition ground forces, often embedding with non-U.S. military units to coordinate U.S. air and naval firepower.
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Deactivation and Reactivation: The unit was deactivated in 1977 due to force reductions but was reactivated in 1983 in response to renewed needs for joint fire support capabilities.
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Desert Storm Contribution: During Operation Desert Storm in 1991, 2nd ANGLICO teams were attached to British, Saudi, and Kuwaiti forces, earning high praise for their expertise in coordinating close air and naval gunfire support.
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Global War on Terror Deployments: Since 2001, 2nd ANGLICO has deployed teams to Iraq and Afghanistan, supporting U.S. and coalition units with air support, artillery, and naval gunfire coordination.
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Notable "Jump" Capability: 2nd ANGLICO Marines are trained in airborne operations, often parachuting into austere environments to establish communications and support allied units.
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Distinctive Insignia: The unit's insignia features a gold parachute, crossed cannons, and naval anchor, symbolizing their airborne, artillery, and naval heritage and mission.
