About this Unit
Marine Wing Support Squadron 274 (MWSS-274), known as the "Ironmen," was activated on June 2, 1986, at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina. The squadron provides aviation ground support to enable Marine aviation operations, including airfield construction, fuel operations, and aircraft rescue and firefighting. MWSS-274 has deployed in support of major operations such as Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom. Throughout its history, the unit has earned recognition for its adaptability and dedication to supporting Marine aviation missions worldwide.
Historical Facts
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Origins: Marine Wing Support Squadron 274 (MWSS-274), known as the "Ironmen," was originally activated on 2 June 1986 at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina.
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Gulf War Service: MWSS-274 deployed to Southwest Asia during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm in 1990-1991, providing expeditionary airfield support for coalition aviation operations.
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Humanitarian Missions: The squadron has participated in multiple humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts, including operations after Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
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Nickname "Ironmen": The unit earned its nickname due to its reputation for toughness, resilience, and the ability to complete difficult missions under challenging conditions.
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Expeditionary Airfield Specialists: MWSS-274’s core mission is to provide all essential aviation ground support requirements for Marine aviation operations, including airfield construction, fuel services, firefighting, and more.
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Global Deployments: MWSS-274 Marines have deployed worldwide, including to Afghanistan and Iraq, supporting Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.
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“No Break in Support” Moto: The squadron prides itself on maintaining continuous support to flying squadrons, ensuring that aircraft can operate even in austere and expeditionary environments.
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Unit Awards: MWSS-274 has received several unit commendations, including Navy Unit Commendation and Meritorious Unit Commendation for its outstanding service.
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Environmental Stewardship: The squadron has been recognized for its environmental initiatives, including managing hazardous materials and waste at deployed locations.
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Legacy of Innovation: MWSS-274 has been at the forefront of adopting new technologies and techniques for expeditionary airfield operations, such as rapid runway repair and advanced expeditionary fuel systems.
