About this Unit
Headquarters and Maintenance Squadron 32 (H&MS-32) was a vital support unit of Marine Aircraft Group 32 (MAG-32), based at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina. Activated in the post-World War II era, H&MS-32 provided essential maintenance, logistics, and administrative support to the flying squadrons of MAG-32. The squadron played a crucial role in ensuring aircraft readiness during both peacetime operations and periods of heightened military activity, including the Cold War. H&MS-32 was later redesignated as Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 32 (MALS-32), reflecting the evolving mission and structure of Marine Corps aviation support units.
Historical Facts
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Heritage of the Unit: Headquarters & Maintenance Squadron 32 (H&MS-32) was a key aviation maintenance and support unit within Marine Aircraft Group 32 (MAG-32), part of the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing at MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina.
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World War II Roots: The lineage of MAG-32 traces back to World War II, where the group played vital combat and support roles in the Pacific Theater, especially in the Philippines and Okinawa campaigns.
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Support Role: H&MS-32 provided critical intermediate maintenance, supply, and administrative support for the flying squadrons of MAG-32, ensuring mission readiness.
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Aircraft Maintained: The unit supported a variety of aircraft over the years, including the A-4 Skyhawk and later the F/A-18 Hornet, reflecting technological advancements in Marine Corps aviation.
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Vietnam War Legacy: While H&MS-32 itself wasn't deployed to Vietnam, MAG-32 and its squadrons contributed personnel and support, with H&MS-32 involved in the training and preparation of Marines for overseas deployment.
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Community Involvement: The Marines and Sailors of H&MS-32 were active in the Beaufort, S.C. community, participating in local events, charity work, and fostering strong civilian-military relationships.
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Unit Motto: The unofficial motto of H&MS-32 was "Keep 'Em Flying," reflecting their essential role in maintaining aircraft for operational squadrons.
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Redesignation: In 1988, as part of a Corps-wide reorganization, H&MS-32 was redesignated as Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 32 (MALS-32), aligning with a new logistics-focused structure.
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Training Hub: H&MS-32 served as a training ground for countless aviation logistics, maintenance, and supply Marines, many of whom went on to serve in leadership roles throughout the Marine Corps.
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Unit Deactivation: In 2013, as part of force restructuring and modernization, MALS-32 (formerly H&MS-32) was deactivated, marking the end of nearly seven decades of service at MCAS Beaufort.
