About this Unit
The 4th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company (4th ANGLICO) is a United States Marine Corps Reserve unit specializing in coordinating close air support, naval gunfire, and artillery for joint, allied, and coalition forces. Established in 1980, 4th ANGLICO has provided critical liaison capabilities during major training exercises and real-world operations, supporting both U.S. and partner nation forces. The unit has played significant roles in Operations Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom, deploying detachments to augment combat operations worldwide. Renowned for its expertise in fire support coordination, 4th ANGLICO continues to enhance interoperability and effectiveness across the battlespace.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: The lineage of ANGLICO (Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company) traces back to the World War II-era Joint Assault Signal Companies (JASCOs), which coordinated naval gunfire and air support for amphibious landings.
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Formal Activation: 4th ANGLICO was officially activated in 1980 at Naval Air Station Atlanta, Georgia, as the Marine Corps Reserve’s dedicated fire support and liaison unit.
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Unique Mission: 4th ANGLICO specializes in supporting non-Marine units, such as the U.S. Army, allied forces, and special operations, by coordinating close air support and naval gunfire.
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Global Deployments: Elements of 4th ANGLICO have deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan, and other conflict zones, providing critical fire support coordination to coalition forces.
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Distinctive Insignia: The 4th ANGLICO unit patch features a red, gold, and black color scheme with crossed lightning bolts and a parachute, symbolizing their airborne capabilities and communications expertise.
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Airborne Qualified: Many 4th ANGLICO Marines are jump-qualified, maintaining proficiency in airborne insertion to support Army and allied paratrooper units.
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Reserve Component: 4th ANGLICO is a Marine Corps Reserve unit, drawing its members from across the United States, including prior-service Marines and new reservists.
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“Firepower Control Teams” (FCTs): The core operational element of 4th ANGLICO is the FCT, small teams capable of deploying independently to provide immediate liaison and fire support coordination.
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Joint and Combined Operations: 4th ANGLICO has a history of working with British, Canadian, Australian, and other NATO forces, earning a reputation for interoperability and professionalism.
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Motto and Spirit: The ANGLICO motto is “Lightning from the Sky, Thunder from the Sea,” reflecting their ability to deliver overwhelming firepower from air and naval assets.
