About this Unit
Marine Wing Support Squadron 373 (MWSS-373) was activated on 1 April 1986 at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) El Toro, California, as part of Marine Wing Support Group 37, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. The squadron provided essential aviation ground support, including airfield operations, engineering, motor transport, and fuel services for Marine aviation units. During its time at MCAS El Toro, MWSS-373 played a crucial role in supporting training exercises and operational deployments, including support for Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm in the early 1990s. In 1999, following the closure of MCAS El Toro, MWSS-373 relocated to MCAS Miramar, continuing its mission of supporting Marine aviation operations.
Historical Facts
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Formation and Mission: Marine Wing Support Squadron 373 (MWSS-373) was activated on 1 April 1986 at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) El Toro, California, with the primary mission to provide essential aviation ground support to Marine aviation units.
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Desert Storm Deployment: MWSS-373 deployed to Saudi Arabia in support of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm (1990-1991), providing vital airfield operations, fuel, transportation, and engineering services for Marine aircraft.
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MCAS El Toro Legacy: The squadron was based at MCAS El Toro, a historic Marine Corps air station that played a significant role in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War before its closure in 1999.
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Humanitarian Mission: MWSS-373 participated in humanitarian missions, including disaster relief efforts in the aftermath of the 1992 Los Angeles riots, providing security and logistical support.
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Historic Aircraft Support: During its time at El Toro, MWSS-373 supported a variety of aircraft, including the F/A-18 Hornet, AV-8B Harrier, and CH-46 Sea Knight, showcasing its flexible ground support capabilities.
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Transition to Miramar: After the closure of MCAS El Toro, MWSS-373 relocated to MCAS Miramar in San Diego, California, as part of the Marine Corps’ west coast realignment.
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Runway Construction: The squadron was known for its rapid runway repair and construction abilities, laying down expeditionary airfields in combat and austere environments.
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Decorations: MWSS-373 has received multiple unit commendations, including the Navy Unit Commendation and Meritorious Unit Commendation, for its exceptional performance during deployments and operations.
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Support for Operation Iraqi Freedom: MWSS-373 played a critical role in Operation Iraqi Freedom (2003), deploying to Kuwait and Iraq to establish and maintain forward operating bases and airfields.
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Tradition and Esprit de Corps: The unit is nicknamed "Aces," and maintains a strong tradition of camaraderie, excellence, and innovation in aviation ground support within the Marine Corps.
