MAG-36

• Formation and World War II Roots: Marine Aircraft Group 36 (MAG-36) traces its origins to World War II, originally commissioned as Marine Air Group 36 in March 1943 at Marine Corps Air Station Santa Barbara, California. • Pacific Theater Service: During World War II, MAG-36 played a significant role in the Pacific campaign, providing critical air support during the battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. • Vietnam War Deployment: MAG-36 was deployed to Vietnam in 1965 as part of the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, operating primarily from bases like Chu Lai and Phu Bai, and supporting major operations such as Operation Starlite. • Helicopter Operations Pioneer: MAG-36 became a pioneer in helicopter assault operations, utilizing aircraft like the UH-34D Seahorse and later the CH-46 Sea Knight, revolutionizing Marine Corps mobility and medevac capabilities. • Distinguished Unit Citations: Members of MAG-36 received numerous awards for valor, including the Presidential Unit Citation for their actions in Vietnam, reflecting their courage and effectiveness under fire. • Humanitarian Missions: Beyond combat, MAG-36 has been involved in multiple humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, such as Operation Tomodachi in response to the 2011 Japan earthquake and tsunami. • Okinawa Stationing: Since the end of the Vietnam War, MAG-36 has been stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, serving as a rapid-deployment aviation force in the Asia-Pacific region. • Multinational Training: MAG-36 regularly participates in multinational exercises like Cobra Gold (Thailand), Balikatan (Philippines), and Talisman Sabre (Australia), fostering interoperability with allied forces. • Modernization and Aircraft: The group operates a diverse fleet, including the MV-22B Osprey, CH-53E Super Stallion, and UH-1Y Venom, reflecting its evolution into a technologically advanced aviation unit. • Motto and Legacy: MAG-36’s motto, “Ready, Responsive, Resolute,” encapsulates its enduring commitment to excellence and rapid response, a tradition upheld since World War II through present-day operations in the Indo-Pacific.