About this Unit
Marine Aircraft Group 12 (MAG-12) was commissioned on March 1, 1942, at Camp Kearny, California, as part of the United States Marine Corps. During World War II, MAG-12 played a significant role in the Pacific Theater, providing air support for key campaigns such as Bougainville and the Philippines. After the war, the group was deployed to Korea, where it supported United Nations forces during the Korean War with close air support and interdiction missions. Today, MAG-12 is based at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, serving as a forward-deployed aviation combat element supporting U.S. and allied interests in the Indo-Pacific region.
Historical Facts
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Formation During World War II: Marine Aircraft Group 12 (MAG-12) was activated on March 1, 1942, at Camp Kearny, San Diego, California, as part of the U.S. Marine Corps' rapid expansion during World War II.
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Pacific Theater Operations: MAG-12 played a critical role in the Pacific Theater, supporting major campaigns like Bougainville, the Northern Solomons, and the liberation of the Philippines.
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First Combat Missions: The group flew its first combat missions in late 1943, providing air support for ground operations and earning a reputation for effectiveness in close air support.
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Korean War Contributions: Reactivated for the Korean War, MAG-12 provided essential air support to United Nations forces, operating from bases in South Korea and Japan.
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Vietnam War Deployment: MAG-12 deployed to Chu Lai, Vietnam, in May 1965, participating in major operations such as Starlite, Harvest Moon, and the Tet Offensive, providing close air support and interdiction missions.
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Aircraft Evolution: Over its history, MAG-12 has operated a variety of aircraft, including the F4U Corsair, AD Skyraider, A-4 Skyhawk, and today, the AV-8B Harrier II and F/A-18 Hornet.
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Japan-Based Since 1973: Since 1973, MAG-12 has been forward-deployed to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, serving as a vital element of U.S. presence and readiness in the Asia-Pacific region.
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Humanitarian Missions: MAG-12 has participated in numerous humanitarian operations, including disaster relief following the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami in Japan.
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Joint and Allied Exercises: The unit routinely conducts joint exercises with U.S. and allied forces, such as Exercise Cobra Gold in Thailand and Exercise Balikatan in the Philippines, enhancing interoperability and regional security.
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Motto and Legacy: MAG-12’s official motto is "Ready, Responsive, and Forward Deployed," reflecting its longstanding commitment to operational readiness and rapid response throughout its distinguished history.
