MABS-36

• Origins: Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 36 (MABS-36) was originally activated as Headquarters Squadron 36 on June 1, 1952, making it one of the older aviation support units in the United States Marine Corps. • Vietnam War Service: The squadron deployed to Vietnam in August 1965, supporting Marine Aircraft Group 36 (MAG-36) with logistics and aviation ground support operations throughout the conflict. • Da Nang Operations: During the Vietnam War, MABS-36 played a crucial role at Da Nang Air Base, constructing and maintaining airfields under frequent enemy fire and harsh conditions. • Move to Okinawa: After the Vietnam War, MABS-36 relocated to Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, where it remains stationed today as a vital part of the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. • Humanitarian Missions: The squadron has supported numerous humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations in Asia-Pacific, including after the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake. • Unit Redesignations: Over its history, the unit has undergone several redesignations, becoming MABS-36 in 1988 to reflect its expanded aviation ground support mission. • Deployed Support: MABS-36 has deployed detachments in support of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, providing aviation logistics and ground support to forward-deployed Marine units. • Exercise Participation: The squadron regularly participates in major multinational exercises, such as Cobra Gold (Thailand) and Balikatan (Philippines), enhancing interoperability with allied forces. • Engineering Feats: MABS-36 engineers are known for rapidly constructing expeditionary airfield facilities, enabling the quick deployment and sustainment of Marine aviation assets in austere environments. • Motto and Spirit: The unofficial motto, "No Support, No Air," highlights the squadron’s essential role in aviation operations, emphasizing that without their hard work, aircraft cannot fly or be maintained.