H&MS-11

Relive and share the memories of your service-time with your brothers and sisters in arms today. VetFriends.com can help you reconnect.

Did you proudly serve in the H&MS-11?

Are you looking for someone who is or was in the H&MS-11?

Do you have H&MS-11 photos you'd like to share?

Then join a community with your brothers and sisters of the H&MS-11.

Branch

U.S. Marine Corps

Members

About H&MS-11

Headquarters and Maintenance Squadron 11 (H&MS-11) was a support unit of the United States Marine Corps, originally activated during World War II. The squadron provided essential aviation logistical, maintenance, and administrative support to Marine aviation units, particularly those assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 11 (MAG-11). Throughout its history, including significant service during the Vietnam War, H&MS-11 played a vital role in ensuring the operational readiness of aircraft and equipment. The squadron was later redesignated as Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 11 (MALS-11), continuing its legacy of aviation support within the Marine Corps.

Unit Members

Mark Haut

U.S. Marine Corps

H&MS-11View Profile

Ronald Renfro

U.S. Marine Corps

H&MS-11View Profile

Photos

U.S. Marine Corps • 1976

About H&MS-11

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins: H&MS-11 stands for Headquarters and Maintenance Squadron 11, a United States Marine Corps aviation support unit originally activated during World War II. • Korean War Service: The unit played a significant role in the Korean War, supporting Marine Aircraft Group 11 (MAG-11) with critical maintenance and logistical functions. • Vietnam War Contributions: H&MS-11 deployed to Vietnam, providing aircraft maintenance, ordnance, and supply services to keep Marine aviation assets operational in combat zones. • Da Nang Air Base: During the Vietnam War, H&MS-11 operated out of Da Nang Air Base, one of the busiest airfields in the world at the time, facing frequent enemy attacks. • Nickname “Keepers of the Flame”: The squadron earned the nickname for its role in keeping Marine air power “alive” through expert support and maintenance. • Ordnance Section: H&MS-11 was responsible for arming aircraft with bombs, rockets, and missiles, including loading the first operational Sidewinder missiles on F-4 Phantoms in Vietnam. • Unit Redesignation: In 1988, H&MS-11 was redesignated as Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 11 (MALS-11), reflecting its expanded logistical and maintenance mission. • Presidential Unit Citation: The squadron received the Presidential Unit Citation for extraordinary heroism and outstanding performance during combat operations in Vietnam. • Notable Aircraft Supported: H&MS-11 maintained and supplied parts for iconic aircraft such as the F-4 Phantom II, A-6 Intruder, and A-4 Skyhawk. • Legacy: The traditions and expertise of H&MS-11 continue today through MALS-11, supporting Marine aviation and demonstrating the enduring importance of logistics and maintenance in military success.