About this Unit
The 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (3rd MAW) was commissioned on November 10, 1942, at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, to provide air support for Marine ground forces during World War II. Throughout the war, the wing played a crucial role in the Pacific Theater, participating in campaigns such as the Battle of Okinawa. During the Korean and Vietnam Wars, the 3rd MAW continued to provide vital air power, including close air support, assault support, and air reconnaissance. Today, based at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, the 3rd MAW remains a key element of the USMC’s aviation combat power, supporting operations worldwide.
Historical Facts
•
Formation and World War II Origins: The 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (3rd MAW) was commissioned on November 10, 1942, at Cherry Point, North Carolina, and quickly deployed to support operations in the Pacific theater during World War II.
•
Key Role in the Pacific Campaign: During World War II, the 3rd MAW provided crucial air support for amphibious landings and combat operations in the Pacific, including the Mariana and Palau Islands campaigns.
•
Post-War Deactivation and Reactivation: After World War II, the wing was deactivated in December 1945, but was reactivated in 1952 in response to the Korean War and growing Cold War tensions.
•
Vietnam War Support: Although primarily based in California, 3rd MAW units supported the Vietnam War by providing trained pilots, aircrews, and aircraft to augment Marine Air Groups deployed to Southeast Asia.
•
Gulf War Operations: During Operation Desert Storm in 1991, 3rd MAW deployed over 106 aircraft to the Persian Gulf, providing vital close air support, interdiction, and reconnaissance missions.
•
Home to the "Flying Leathernecks": The wing is associated with the famous "Flying Leathernecks," a nickname for Marine aviators that became a symbol of pride for the unit and inspired the 1951 John Wayne film Flying Leathernecks.
•
Operation Iraqi Freedom: 3rd MAW played a leading role in the 2003 invasion of Iraq, being the first Marine aviation unit to arrive in theater and supporting ground forces with over 19,000 sorties during the initial phases.
•
Pioneering Women Aviators: 3rd MAW has been home to several pioneering female pilots and aircrew, including the first female Marine to fly the AV-8B Harrier II in combat.
•
Modernization and F-35B Integration: The wing has been at the forefront of integrating the advanced F-35B Lightning II stealth fighter into Marine aviation, with several squadrons now operational and deployed worldwide.
•
Humanitarian Missions: In addition to combat operations, 3rd MAW has provided critical disaster relief and humanitarian assistance, including support after the 2010 Haiti earthquake and Hurricane Katrina.
