H&MS 15

• Origin: Headquarters & Maintenance Squadron 15 (H&MS-15) was a unit of the United States Marine Corps that provided aviation logistical support. • Korean War Roots: The unit traces its lineage back to the Korean War era, when Marine aviation logistics became a critical factor in operational success. • Vietnam Service: H&MS-15 was notably active during the Vietnam War, supporting Marine Aircraft Group 15 (MAG-15) with aircraft maintenance and logistics at Da Nang Air Base. • Nickname: The squadron was often referred to as “Hams 15” by its Marines and personnel. • Aircraft Supported: H&MS-15 provided maintenance for a variety of aircraft, including the F-4 Phantom II, A-6 Intruder, and KC-130 Hercules. • Ordnance and Munitions: The squadron’s Ordnance Division was responsible for assembling, maintaining, and loading bombs and missiles for Marine aircraft. • Redesignation: In 1988, H&MS-15 was redesignated as Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 15 (MALS-15) as part of a Corps-wide reorganization. • Global Reach: Over the decades, H&MS-15/MALS-15 supported operations and exercises across the Pacific, including deployments to Japan, the Philippines, and Thailand. • Emblem: The squadron’s insignia featured a winged gear, symbolizing their dual mission of aviation and maintenance. • Legacy: MALS-15 (formerly H&MS-15) remained a critical logistics hub for Marine aviation in the Pacific until its deactivation in 2020, marking nearly 70 years of continuous service.