New River NC

• Birthplace of Marine Aviation: Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) New River, located near Jacksonville, North Carolina, is renowned as the first Marine Corps air station dedicated solely to helicopter operations. • Established During World War II: Originally commissioned in 1944, the facility was first known as Peterfield Point and served as a crucial training and support base during the war. • Home of the MV-22 Osprey: MCAS New River was the first base to receive the revolutionary MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft, which has transformed Marine Corps aviation with its unique takeoff and landing capabilities. • Support for Operation Desert Storm: Units from New River played vital roles in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, providing helicopter support and logistics for deployed Marine forces. • Close Relationship with Camp Lejeune: New River is located adjacent to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, and the two installations work closely to support Marine Expeditionary Units (MEUs) and amphibious operations. • Humanitarian Missions: New River-based squadrons frequently participate in humanitarian missions, including disaster relief after hurricanes and international aid deployments. • Historic Command: The air station was renamed Marine Corps Air Facility Peterfield Point in 1951 and later MCAS New River in 1968, reflecting its growing importance in Marine aviation. • Nighttime Training: The base is known for extensive nighttime flight training, preparing pilots for challenging combat and support missions under low-visibility conditions. • Environmental Stewardship: MCAS New River has received recognition for its environmental management programs, balancing military readiness with the preservation of local natural resources. • Community Integration: The base has strong ties to the Jacksonville and Onslow County communities, hosting annual air shows and open house events for the public, fostering civilian-military relations.