H&MS-16

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Branch

U.S. Marine Corps

Members

About H&MS-16

Headquarters and Maintenance Squadron 16 (H&MS-16) was a United States Marine Corps aviation support unit established to provide logistics, maintenance, and administrative support to Marine Aircraft Group 16 (MAG-16). Activated during the Vietnam War, H&MS-16 played a crucial role at bases such as Marble Mountain Air Facility, supporting helicopter squadrons by ensuring aircraft readiness through maintenance and supply operations. The squadron’s efforts contributed significantly to the operational effectiveness of helicopter missions, including troop transport, medical evacuation, and logistical resupply. After the Vietnam War, H&MS-16 continued to support Marine aviation until it was eventually redesignated as part of the Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron (MALS) reorganization.

Unit Members

Hal A Clark

U.S. Marine Corps

H&MS-16View Profile

James Pessy

U.S. Marine Corps

H&MS-16View Profile

Photos

Barracks - Whetstone and Howard

U.S. Marine Corps • 1970

About H&MS-16

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Formation and Designation: Headquarters and Maintenance Squadron 16 (H&MS-16) was a crucial aviation support unit in the United States Marine Corps, originally formed to provide logistical and maintenance support to Marine Aircraft Group 16 (MAG-16). • Vietnam War Service: H&MS-16 served extensively during the Vietnam War, supporting helicopter squadrons operating from bases such as Marble Mountain Air Facility and Phu Bai Combat Base. • Role in Helicopter Operations: The squadron was vital in maintaining and repairing UH-1 "Huey," CH-46 "Sea Knight," and CH-53 "Sea Stallion" helicopters, enabling continuous operations in combat environments. • Aerial Delivery Operations: H&MS-16 was responsible for aerial resupply missions, often utilizing helicopters to deliver supplies, ammunition, and equipment under fire to forward-deployed Marines. • Nickname and Emblem: The unit was often referred to as the "Magicians" due to their ability to keep aircraft flying under challenging conditions. Their emblem typically featured symbols of maintenance and aviation. • Support During the Siege of Khe Sanh: H&MS-16 provided critical maintenance and logistical support during the 1968 siege, ensuring helicopters could evacuate wounded and deliver essential supplies. • Innovative Repairs: The unit was known for performing field-expedient repairs, often fabricating parts and improvising solutions in austere environments to keep aircraft operational. • Transition and Redesignation: After the Vietnam War, H&MS-16 underwent several reorganizations and was eventually redesignated as Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 16 (MALS-16) in 1988, reflecting a broader aviation logistics mission. • Decorations and Commendations: H&MS-16 and its personnel received numerous commendations for their service, including unit citations and individual awards for valor and meritorious service. • Legacy and Modern Role: The legacy of H&MS-16 continues today in the form of MALS-16, which remains an essential component of Marine Corps aviation logistics and support, deploying globally in support of Marine Air-Ground Task Force operations.