MWSS-373 MCAS El Toro

• 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • Runway Construction: The squadron was known for its rapid runway repair and construction abilities, laying down expeditionary airfields in combat and austere environments. • 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. • 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. • 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.