Mass -1, Cherry Point

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Branch

U.S. Marine Corps

Members

About Mass -1, Cherry Point

**Marine Aviation Support Squadron 1 (MASS-1)**, based at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, was established during World War II to provide air support coordination for Marine Corps aviation units. Originally activated in February 1943 as Headquarters Squadron, 1st Marine Air Warning Group, the unit played a crucial role in the Pacific Theater by directing close air support for ground operations. Over the decades, MASS-1 has supported numerous operations, from Vietnam and Desert Storm to Operation Enduring Freedom, by delivering tactical air control and coordination for Marine Air-Ground Task Forces. Today, MASS-1 remains a vital component in ensuring seamless integration between air and ground forces within the United States Marine Corps.

Unit Members

Edward Beck

U.S. Marine Corps

Mass -1, Cherry PointView Profile

Larry Weik

U.S. Marine Corps

Mass -1, Cherry PointView Profile

Photos

U.S. Marine Corps • 1976

About Mass -1, Cherry Point

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Meaning of MASS-1: MASS-1 stands for Marine Air Support Squadron 1, a United States Marine Corps aviation command and control unit based at MCAS Cherry Point, North Carolina. • World War II Origins: The unit traces its lineage back to World War II, originally activated as Marine Ground Control Intercept Squadron 1 (MGCIS-1) in 1943. • Korean War Service: MASS-1 played a crucial role in providing air support coordination for Marine and UN forces during the Korean War, pioneering innovations in close air support tactics. • Vietnam War Deployments: The squadron supported operations in Vietnam, introducing the Direct Air Support Center (DASC), a vital link in the coordination of air support for ground troops. • Technological Advancements: MASS-1 has consistently been at the forefront of integrating new command and control technologies, including the AN/TSQ-155 Improved DASC system. • Humanitarian Missions: In addition to combat roles, MASS-1 has provided air control and support during humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, both domestically and internationally. • Operation Desert Storm: The squadron deployed personnel to Southwest Asia in 1990-1991, supporting coalition air operations during the liberation of Kuwait. • Training Excellence: MASS-1 is renowned for its rigorous training programs, often hosting joint exercises with other U.S. military branches and allied nations to improve interoperability and readiness. • Distinctive Insignia: The unit's emblem—a stylized eagle, globe, and anchor with lightning bolts—symbolizes both their Marine Corps heritage and their command and control mission. • Legacy at Cherry Point: MASS-1 has been a pillar of MCAS Cherry Point's operational community for decades, earning multiple awards for efficiency, safety, and mission success throughout its history.