MABs16

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Branch

U.S. Marine Corps

Members

About MABs16

**Marine Air Base Squadron 16 (MABS-16)** is a United States Marine Corps aviation ground support unit, part of Marine Aircraft Group 16 and the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. Activated on March 1, 1952, MABS-16 has provided essential airfield operations and support, including fueling, firefighting, and engineering services, for rotary and fixed-wing aircraft. The unit has seen extensive service in major conflicts such as the Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom. Stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, MABS-16 continues to play a critical role in enabling Marine aviation operations worldwide.

Unit Members

Robert Turner

U.S. Marine Corps

MABs16View Profile

Philmore Watford Jr

U.S. Marine Corps

MABs16View Profile

Photos

U.S. Marine Corps • 1976

About MABs16

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins: Marine Air Base Squadron 16 (MABS-16) was activated on 1 March 1952 at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) El Toro, California. • Korean War Era: MABS-16 was established during the Korean War to provide critical airbase support for Marine aviation operations. • Vietnam War: The squadron deployed to Vietnam, supporting operations from Chu Lai and Da Nang, providing base operations, engineering, and logistical support. • Key Mission: MABS-16’s primary mission is to provide essential aviation ground support to enable Marine Aircraft Group 16 (MAG-16) operations. • Gulf War Support: MABS-16 played a vital role during Operation Desert Storm, supporting MAG-16's helicopter squadrons in the Persian Gulf. • Global War on Terror: Since 2001, MABS-16 has been continuously involved in supporting deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. • Humanitarian Assistance: The unit has supported various humanitarian missions, including disaster relief operations in the Asia-Pacific region. • Unit Awards: MABS-16 has earned numerous unit citations and commendations for its service and support during combat and peacetime operations. • Expeditionary Capability: MABS-16 is renowned for its ability to establish and support expeditionary airfields in austere environments. • Current Location: Today, MABS-16 is based at MCAS Miramar, California, continuing its legacy of supporting Marine aviation missions worldwide.