Marine Cryogenics Equipment School

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U.S. Marine Corps

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About Marine Cryogenics Equipment School

The Marine Cryogenics Equipment School was established in the early 1970s at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, to address the growing need for specialized training in the maintenance and operation of cryogenic systems used by the Marine Corps. Initially focused on supporting aviation and medical units, the school developed rigorous curricula covering the safe handling, storage, and transportation of cryogenic liquids such as liquid oxygen and nitrogen. Over the decades, graduates of the Marine Cryogenics Equipment School have played vital roles in ensuring the operational readiness of life-support systems for field hospitals, aircraft, and critical mission support. The unit’s technical expertise continues to be a cornerstone of Marine Corps logistics and sustainment operations worldwide.

Unit Members

James Fouch

U.S. Marine Corps

Marine Cryogenics Equipment SchoolView Profile

Photos

U.S. Marine Corps • 1976

About Marine Cryogenics Equipment School

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins: The Marine Cryogenics Equipment School (MCES) was established in the 1960s at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, to train Marines in the operation, maintenance, and repair of cryogenic systems crucial for military logistics. • Mission: MCES specializes in training Marines to handle and maintain equipment that stores and dispenses liquid oxygen (LOX) and liquid nitrogen (LIN), both vital for aircraft and medical support. • Unique Curriculum: The school offers hands-on instruction in handling hazardous cryogenic fluids, including safety protocols, equipment troubleshooting, and emergency response procedures. • Critical Role in Aviation: LOX produced and managed by cryogenics Marines is essential for pilot breathing systems in military aircraft, making their expertise vital for flight operations. • Small, Specialized Community: Cryogenics Marines represent one of the smallest occupational fields in the Marine Corps, leading to a close-knit professional community. • Global Deployments: Graduates of MCES have supported Marine and joint operations worldwide, ensuring the availability of cryogenic supplies in both peacetime and combat environments. • Nickname: Marines in this field are sometimes referred to as “LOX Marines” due to their expertise with liquid oxygen systems. • Historic Impact: MCES-trained Marines played a crucial support role during Operations Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom, maintaining vital aviation and medical oxygen supplies. • Safety Innovations: The school has contributed to the development of improved safety measures and emergency procedures for handling cryogenic products in military settings. • Mascot and Pride: The school has occasionally adopted the polar bear as an unofficial mascot, symbolizing the cold, hazardous environments cryogenics Marines work in.