About this Unit
Marine Aircraft Group 13 (MAG-13) is a United States Marine Corps aviation unit activated on March 1, 1942, during World War II. Initially established at San Diego, California, MAG-13 participated in key campaigns in the Pacific Theater, including operations in the Solomon Islands and the Philippines. After World War II, the unit was deactivated but later reactivated and played significant roles in the Vietnam War, providing close air support and conducting air interdiction missions. Today, MAG-13 is based at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, and operates as part of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, supporting Marine Air-Ground Task Force operations with advanced fixed-wing aircraft.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: Marine Aircraft Group 13 (MAG-13) was originally commissioned on March 1, 1942, at San Diego, California, primarily to support World War II operations in the Pacific Theater.
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Guadalcanal Campaign: MAG-13 played a significant role in the Guadalcanal Campaign, providing essential air support for the U.S. Marines during one of the most pivotal battles in the Pacific.
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Korean War Contribution: The group was reactivated for the Korean War, where it conducted close air support and interdiction missions, helping to shape Marine Corps air tactics.
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Vietnam War Service: MAG-13 was deployed to Chu Lai Air Base in Vietnam and became known for its intensive support of Marine ground operations, flying thousands of combat sorties.
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Transition to Jets: Over its history, MAG-13 has flown a variety of aircraft, transitioning from propeller-driven planes such as the F4U Corsair to jets like the F-4 Phantom II and later the AV-8B Harrier II.
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Operation Desert Storm: MAG-13 played a crucial role during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, deploying AV-8B Harrier squadrons to provide close air support for coalition ground forces.
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Home Base at MCAS Yuma: Today, MAG-13 is based at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, a premier training location for Marine aviation, particularly for its Harrier and F-35 squadrons.
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Harrier Vertical Takeoff: MAG-13 was among the first Marine units to operate the AV-8B Harrier II, a unique jet capable of vertical/short takeoff and landing, revolutionizing Marine Corps air support capabilities.
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Modernization with the F-35B: As part of the Marine Corps' transition to fifth-generation fighters, MAG-13 has integrated the F-35B Lightning II, making it one of the most advanced Marine aviation units today.
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Distinguished Unit Awards: Over its history, MAG-13 and its squadrons have earned multiple unit commendations and awards for valor and exceptional performance in combat operations.
