About this Unit
Headquarters & Maintenance Squadron 26 (H&MS-26) was a United States Marine Corps aviation support unit assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 26, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. Activated in the 1950s, H&MS-26 provided critical logistical, administrative, and intermediate maintenance support to the helicopter squadrons of MAG-26, especially during deployments and operations. The squadron played a vital role during the Vietnam War era and in subsequent Cold War military exercises and contingencies. In 1988, H&MS-26 was redesignated as Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 26 (MALS-26), reflecting its evolving role in support of Marine aviation operations.
Historical Facts
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Origins and Meaning: H&MS-26 stands for "Headquarters & Maintenance Squadron 26," a United States Marine Corps aviation unit primarily responsible for providing logistical, maintenance, and administrative support to Marine Aircraft Group 26 (MAG-26).
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Activation Date: H&MS-26 was activated on 1 March 1952 at Marine Corps Air Facility New River, North Carolina, to support the growing aviation needs of the Marine Corps during the post-World War II period.
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Vietnam War Service: Elements and personnel from H&MS-26 supported Marine helicopter operations in Vietnam by providing critical maintenance and logistical support to deployed squadrons.
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Aircraft Support: Throughout its history, H&MS-26 maintained and supported a variety of aircraft, including the CH-46 Sea Knight, CH-53 Sea Stallion, and later the MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft.
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Reorganization: As the Marine Corps streamlined its aviation logistics structure in the late 1980s, H&MS-26 was redesignated as Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 26 (MALS-26) on 1 October 1988.
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Desert Shield/Desert Storm: During Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm (1990-1991), H&MS-26/MALS-26 deployed personnel and equipment to Southwest Asia to support Marine aviation units in combat.
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Operation Enduring Freedom & Iraqi Freedom: The squadron provided essential logistical and maintenance support for Marine aircraft engaged in Afghanistan and Iraq, enabling extended combat operations.
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Innovations in Maintenance: H&MS-26 pioneered several innovative maintenance and supply chain practices that improved aircraft readiness and set standards adopted across Marine aviation.
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Unit Motto: The unit’s motto, “Ready For All Challenges,” reflects their commitment to supporting Marine aviation missions anytime, anywhere.
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Community Involvement: Over the decades, H&MS-26/MALS-26 has been active in the Jacksonville and New River, NC communities, participating in outreach, educational programs, and disaster relief efforts.
