About this Unit
Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 13 (MALS-13), known as the "Black Widows," was activated on March 1, 1942, and played a vital support role during World War II in the Pacific Theater. Originally established to provide logistical and maintenance support to Marine Aircraft Group 13, the squadron has supported numerous operations, including actions in the Vietnam War and Operations Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom. Over the decades, MALS-13 has been instrumental in ensuring the readiness of Marine Corps aviation units through supply, maintenance, and ordnance support. Today, MALS-13 is based at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, continuing its mission of supporting Marine aviation excellence.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 13 (MALS-13) traces its roots back to World War II, where it was originally commissioned as Headquarters and Service Squadron 13 (H&HS-13) on March 1, 1942.
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Nickname "Black Widows": The squadron is known as the "Black Widows," a nickname inspired by the deadly and resilient black widow spider, symbolizing the unit's tenacity and effectiveness.
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Location: MALS-13 is based at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, a critical hub for Marine aviation training and operations, especially for squadrons operating in the southwestern United States.
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Mission Support: The unit’s primary mission is to provide aviation logistics support, including maintenance, ordnance, and supply, to Marine Aircraft Group 13 (MAG-13) and its squadrons.
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Vietnam War Service: Marines from the precursor units of MALS-13 served in Vietnam, providing vital logistics and maintenance support for Marine aviation operations during the conflict.
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Supporting Operation Desert Storm: MALS-13 played a key role during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, supporting AV-8B Harrier operations and ensuring rapid sortie generation in the harsh desert environment.
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Transition to Modern Aircraft: Over the decades, MALS-13 has supported several generations of Marine aircraft, from the A-4 Skyhawk to the AV-8B Harrier, and currently supports the F-35B Lightning II.
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Unit Awards: MALS-13 has earned numerous unit commendations and awards, including the Navy Unit Commendation, highlighting the squadron’s outstanding performance and dedication to mission success.
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Humanitarian Assistance: In addition to combat support, MALS-13 has contributed to humanitarian missions, providing logistics support in disaster relief operations at home and abroad.
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Innovative Maintenance Practices: MALS-13 is recognized for pioneering innovative maintenance and logistics practices that have been adopted across Marine aviation, setting standards in efficiency and readiness.
