About this Unit
Marine Air Support Squadron 6 (MASS-6) is a United States Marine Corps reserve unit that was activated on July 1, 1962. The squadron’s primary mission is to provide direct air support coordination to Marine Air-Ground Task Forces (MAGTFs) by operating the Direct Air Support Center (DASC). MASS-6 has participated in numerous training exercises and operations, supporting both active and reserve Marine units and integrating with joint and allied forces. Over its history, the unit has been recognized for its professionalism and adaptability, playing a crucial role in enhancing the Marine Corps’ close air support capabilities.
Historical Facts
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Marine Air Support Squadron 6 (MASS-6) is a reserve aviation command and control unit of the United States Marine Corps, headquartered at Westover Air Reserve Base, Massachusetts.
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The unit's primary mission is to provide the Direct Air Support Center (DASC), a crucial link in the Marine Air Command and Control System (MACCS), responsible for coordinating close air support and other air operations for Marine ground forces.
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MASS-6 was originally activated on 1 July 1962, making it part of the Marine Corps Reserve’s efforts to strengthen aviation command and control capabilities during the Cold War era.
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The squadron's motto is "Anytime, Anywhere", reflecting its readiness to deploy and provide air support coordination wherever needed.
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During Operation Desert Storm in 1991, Marines from MASS-6 were mobilized and integrated with active duty units, providing critical air support coordination in the Persian Gulf region.
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MASS-6 has supported numerous joint and multinational exercises, including Bold Quest and Combined Endeavor, enhancing interoperability with allied forces.
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The unit is known for its proficiency in deploying the DASC via both fixed-site and highly mobile, expeditionary configurations, often operating from tents, vehicles, or field shelters.
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In recent years, MASS-6 has participated in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief exercises, underscoring the flexibility of Marine aviation command and control capabilities.
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The squadron’s personnel have earned numerous individual and unit-level awards for excellence in training, operational readiness, and community service.
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MASS-6 frequently conducts training with active duty Marine units and other reserve squadrons, ensuring seamless integration during mobilization and deployment scenarios.
