Ist Marine Expeditionary Force

• Formation and Purpose: The I Marine Expeditionary Force (I MEF) was officially activated on 8 November 1969, designed as a rapid-response, deployable Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) capable of a wide range of military operations. • Desert Storm Operations: During Operation Desert Storm in 1991, I MEF was the largest American combat formation deployed, consisting of over 92,000 Marines and Sailors. • Camp Pendleton Headquarters: I MEF is headquartered at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, serving as the principal Marine Corps force on the West Coast. • Global Deployments: Units from I MEF have participated in major conflicts such as the Gulf War, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan), and humanitarian missions worldwide. • Structure: I MEF is comprised of the 1st Marine Division, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, 1st Marine Logistics Group, and I MEF Information Group, making it a fully self-sustained fighting force. • First Strike in Iraq: In 2003, I MEF led the assault into Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom, spearheading the rapid advance to Baghdad and playing a key role in toppling Saddam Hussein’s regime. • Humanitarian Assistance: The unit has been deployed for disaster relief, including missions in Indonesia after the 2004 tsunami and in Japan following the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. • Training and Readiness: I MEF regularly conducts large-scale exercises such as “Steel Knight” and “Dawn Blitz” to maintain combat readiness with allied and partner nations. • Nickname: I MEF is sometimes referred to as “America’s Expeditionary Force in Readiness,” highlighting its ability to respond to crises anywhere in the world at a moment’s notice. • Notable Commanders: Several notable Marine Corps generals have commanded I MEF, including General James Mattis, who later became the U.S. Secretary of Defense.