About this Unit
Headquarters and Service Company (H&S Co), 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion, is a unit of the United States Marine Corps Reserve. The battalion was originally activated in 1943 and has since provided critical command, control, and support functions for assault amphibian operations. Throughout its history, H&S Co has participated in numerous training exercises and mobilizations, including deployments in support of Operations Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom. The unit is headquartered in Tampa, Florida, and continues to provide essential support to the battalion’s amphibious assault missions.
Historical Facts
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Unit Identity: H&S Company, 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion (AAV) is a Headquarters & Service company, providing command and logistical support to the 4th AAV Battalion within the United States Marine Corps Reserve.
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Activation Date: The 4th AAV Battalion traces its roots to 1943, with H&S Company being a critical component supporting its operations throughout its history.
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Reserve Component: The unit is a reserve element, primarily composed of Marines who train part-time but can be mobilized for active duty during national emergencies or wartime.
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Gulf War Service: Elements of the 4th AAV Battalion, including H&S Co, were activated and deployed for Operation Desert Storm in 1991, providing amphibious support and logistics.
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Hurricane Katrina Response: In 2005, Marines from H&S Company supported disaster relief efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, demonstrating the unit’s flexibility for humanitarian missions.
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AAVP7A1 Vehicles: The battalion, with logistics and maintenance support from H&S Company, operates the AAVP7A1 amphibious assault vehicle, capable of transporting Marines from ship to shore.
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Training Exercises: H&S Company regularly participates in major joint and multinational training exercises, such as Operation Bold Alligator and other amphibious readiness drills.
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Community Ties: The Reserve unit maintains strong connections to its local community, often participating in parades, public events, and military appreciation days.
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9/11 Mobilization: After the September 11th attacks, H&S Company personnel were mobilized in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, supporting overseas deployments.
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Preserving Amphibious Heritage: H&S Company helps preserve the Marine Corps’ amphibious legacy, training Marines in the unique skills required for ship-to-shore operations, a core Marine Corps capability since World War II.
