About this Unit
Marine Wing Support Squadron 372 (MWSS-372), known as the "Diamondbacks," was activated on 2 June 1986 at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Camp Pendleton, California. The squadron provides essential aviation ground support to enable the operations of Marine aviation units, including airfield services, engineering, and logistics. MWSS-372 has supported numerous operations, including deployments to Southwest Asia during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, as well as Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. The unit continues to play a vital role in expeditionary airfield operations and support for Marine Corps aviation both at home and abroad.
Historical Facts
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Origins During Vietnam War Era: Marine Wing Support Squadron 372 (MWSS-372) traces its roots to the formation of Marine Wing Support Group 37 in 1953 and subsequent support units, but MWSS-372 itself was established in 1986 at Camp Pendleton, California.
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Nickname - "Diamondbacks": MWSS-372 is famously known as the "Diamondbacks," adopting the rattlesnake as their unit symbol to reflect their aggressive spirit and operational readiness.
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Key Role in Operation Desert Storm: In the Gulf War (1990-1991), MWSS-372 deployed to Saudi Arabia and provided critical aviation ground support for Marine air operations, including establishing forward arming and refueling points.
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Humanitarian Mission in Somalia: In 1992-1993, MWSS-372 supported Operation Restore Hope, providing vital airfield and logistical support for humanitarian relief efforts during the Somali Civil War.
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Support in Operation Iraqi Freedom: MWSS-372 was among the first Marine units to cross into Iraq in 2003, constructing and supporting expeditionary airfields, including the notable "Jalibah Dirt" airstrip near Nasiriyah.
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Expeditionary Airfield Construction: The unit is renowned for its ability to rapidly build, maintain, and operate expeditionary airfields, a vital capability for Marine air-ground task forces.
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Hurricane Katrina Relief: In 2005, MWSS-372 deployed to the Gulf Coast to aid in disaster relief following Hurricane Katrina, providing engineering and logistical support to affected communities.
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Training with New Technology: MWSS-372 regularly integrates advanced equipment, such as the M-31 Expeditionary Arresting Gear System, supporting the evolving needs of Marine aviation.
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Deployments to Afghanistan: The squadron has supported multiple deployments to Afghanistan, where it built and maintained forward operating bases and airfields in challenging environments.
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Awards and Recognition: MWSS-372 has earned multiple unit citations and commendations, including the Navy Unit Commendation and Meritorious Unit Commendation, in recognition of its outstanding operational achievements.
