MACS5

• Origins in WWII: Marine Air Control Squadron 5 (MACS-5) was originally commissioned as Air Warning Squadron 14 (AWS-14) on July 1, 1944, at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, to provide early warning and air control during World War II. • Pacific Theater Deployment: AWS-14 was deployed to the Pacific and supported operations in Okinawa, providing critical radar coverage and air warning defense against Japanese air attacks. • Name Changes: The unit was redesignated multiple times, becoming Marine Ground Control Intercept Squadron 5 (MGCIS-5) in 1946 and then Marine Air Control Squadron 5 (MACS-5) in 1954, reflecting evolving air control missions. • Korean War Service: MACS-5 played a role in the Korean War, providing air surveillance and control functions in support of United Nations forces. • Technological Innovation: The squadron operated and tested new radar and communications technologies, including the AN/TPS-1B and AN/TPS-34 radars, significantly enhancing Marine Corps air defense capabilities. • Cuban Missile Crisis: During the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, MACS-5 rapidly deployed to reinforce air defense positions in the Southeastern United States, highlighting its strategic readiness. • Vietnam War Support: While MACS-5 itself did not deploy to Vietnam, it trained and provided personnel and equipment to support Marine air control squadrons operating in Southeast Asia. • Cold War Presence: Throughout the Cold War, MACS-5 served at various locations including MCAS Cherry Point and MCAS Beaufort, maintaining readiness against potential Soviet threats. • Deactivation in 1993: After nearly 50 years of service and numerous relocations and redesignations, MACS-5 was deactivated on August 26, 1993, as part of the post-Cold War drawdown. • Legacy and Honors: MACS-5’s legacy continues through its contributions to Marine Corps aviation command and control, and its lineage is honored by current Marine Air Control units.