U.S. Marine Corps

The Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center (MCMWTC), located near Bridgeport, California, was established in 1951 during the Korean War to prepare Marines for combat in mountainous and cold weather environments. Originally called the Cold Weather Battalion, the center has since evolved into one of the premier training facilities for mountain and cold weather warfare in the United States military. Over the decades, MCMWTC has provided specialized training not only to Marines but also to joint and allied forces, focusing on survival, movement, and combat operations in rugged terrain. The center has played a critical role in preparing troops for deployments to challenging regions such as Afghanistan, ensuring operational readiness in some of the world’s harshest environments.

Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 22 (NMCB-22), known as the "Lone Star Battalion," is a Seabee unit of the United States Navy Reserve. Established in 1942 during World War II, the battalion supported critical construction operations in the Pacific Theater, including airfields and naval bases. Reactivated during the Korean War and throughout the Cold War, NMCB-22 has played a vital role in both combat and peacetime missions, providing construction support during Operations Desert Shield/Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. The battalion continues its legacy today by supporting global contingency operations, humanitarian missions, and disaster relief efforts.

The 2/8th Weapons Platoon is an integral component of the 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment (2/8), United States Marine Corps. Historically, the Weapons Platoon has provided direct and indirect fire support, utilizing assets such as machine guns, mortars, and anti-armor weaponry to enhance the battalion's combat effectiveness. The platoon has seen action in major conflicts including World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam, and more recent deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, supporting infantry operations with firepower and tactical flexibility. Renowned for its discipline and effectiveness, the 2/8th Weapons Platoon continues to uphold a proud legacy of service and excellence within the Marine Corps.

The 2nd Battalion, 11th Marines (2/11), part of the 1st Marine Division (Reinforced), was activated in World War I and has since served as a key artillery battalion within the Marine Corps. During World War II, 2/11 participated in major campaigns including Guadalcanal, Peleliu, and Okinawa, providing vital fire support for infantry operations. The battalion later saw action in the Korean War, Vietnam War, Operations Desert Shield/Desert Storm, and the Global War on Terrorism, including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Renowned for its adaptability, 2/11 has also fulfilled provisional infantry and civil-military operations roles, earning numerous unit commendations throughout its distinguished history.

The 2nd Topographical Squadron (2nd TOPO) is a specialized unit within the Australian Army, responsible for providing geospatial and topographical support to military operations. Formed in the mid-20th century, the unit has played a crucial role in mapping, terrain analysis, and geographic intelligence for both domestic and overseas deployments. Throughout its history, the 2nd TOPO has supported major operations, including the Vietnam War, peacekeeping missions, and modern joint force operations in the Middle East. Leveraging advanced technology and skilled personnel, the squadron continues to be a vital asset for enhancing situational awareness and operational planning for the Australian Defence Force.

The 3rd Marine Logistics Group (3rd MLG) is a vital logistics unit of the United States Marine Corps, established in 1958 and headquartered at Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan. Originally formed as the 3rd Force Service Regiment, it has provided critical logistical, supply, and maintenance support to III Marine Expeditionary Force (III MEF) operations across the Indo-Pacific region. The unit has played key roles in major exercises, humanitarian missions, and contingencies, including support during the Vietnam War and disaster relief in the Asia-Pacific. Through its forward-deployed posture, 3rd MLG enhances the readiness and sustainability of Marine Corps forces throughout the region.

The 4th Force Service Support Group (4th FSSG) was a unit of the United States Marine Corps Reserve, established to provide combat service support to Marine Forces Reserve units. Activated in 1962, 4th FSSG was headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and comprised various subordinate units specializing in logistics, supply, maintenance, medical, and transportation. Throughout its history, the 4th FSSG played a vital role in supporting both training exercises and operational deployments, including mobilizations for Operations Desert Shield/Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. In 2006, the unit was reorganized and redesignated as the 4th Marine Logistics Group (4th MLG), continuing its legacy of logistical excellence within the Marine Corps Reserve.

The 4th Marine Amphibious Brigade (4th MAB) was a specialized unit of the United States Marine Corps, originally activated during World War II and reactivated in the 1970s in response to increasing Cold War tensions. The brigade was tasked with rapid-response amphibious operations, particularly focused on NATO’s northern flank and the defense of Norway against possible Soviet aggression. Throughout the 1980s, the 4th MAB participated in numerous exercises and deployments, honing Arctic and cold-weather warfare capabilities. In 1988, the brigade was redesignated as the 4th Marine Expeditionary Brigade (4th MEB), continuing its mission as a flexible, forward-deployed force ready for crises and contingencies.

The 5th Reconnaissance Battalion (5th Recon BN) has its origins in World War II, where it was first activated to provide critical intelligence and battlefield reconnaissance for Marine operations in the Pacific Theater. Renowned for its stealth and adaptability, the battalion participated in key island-hopping campaigns, conducting amphibious landings and gathering crucial information behind enemy lines. Post-war, the unit was reactivated and reorganized several times, supporting major conflicts such as the Korean and Vietnam Wars, where it continued to excel in reconnaissance, surveillance, and direct-action missions. Today, the 5th Recon BN remains an elite component of the Marine Corps, specializing in advanced reconnaissance and special operations in support of Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) operations worldwide.

The 7th Separate Bulk Fuel Company (7th Sep. Bulk Fuel Co.) is a specialized logistics unit within the United States Marine Corps, tasked with providing vital bulk fuel support to Marine Air-Ground Task Forces. Established to ensure the rapid and efficient delivery, storage, and distribution of fuel in both combat and training environments, the unit has supported numerous operations and exercises since its inception. Over the years, the 7th Sep. Bulk Fuel Co. has demonstrated its expertise in operating tactical fuel systems, enabling sustained operations for ground and aviation assets. Their contributions have been critical in maintaining the operational readiness and mobility of Marine forces worldwide.

Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 167 (HMLA-167), known as the "Warriors," was originally activated on March 1, 1968, at Marble Mountain Air Facility, Vietnam, as HML-167. The squadron provided close air support, armed escort, and utility helicopter support to Marine ground forces during the Vietnam War, flying the UH-1E Huey. Over the decades, HMLA-167 has participated in numerous operations, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom, evolving its mission with the introduction of AH-1 Cobra attack helicopters and upgraded UH-1Y Venoms. Today, HMLA-167 remains an integral part of Marine Aircraft Group 29, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, based at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina.

Headquarters and Service Company (HqSvc Co), Officer Candidates School (OCS), Marine Corps Development and Education Command (MCDEC), Quantico, Virginia, has played a key support role in the training and evaluation of future Marine Corps officers. Established to provide administrative, logistical, and operational assistance, HqSvc Co ensures the smooth functioning of OCS programs. Throughout its history, the unit has facilitated the rigorous screening and preparation of officer candidates, upholding the traditions and standards of the Marine Corps. Stationed at Quantico—known as the “Crossroads of the Marine Corps”—HqSvc Co remains integral to the development of Marine leaders.

Marine Aircraft Group 29 (MAG-29) is a United States Marine Corps aviation unit activated on May 1, 1972, at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) New River, North Carolina. The group primarily provides assault support with rotary-wing and tiltrotor aircraft, supporting Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) operations. MAG-29 has participated in numerous operations and deployments, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom. Over the decades, MAG-29 has played a critical role in combat operations, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief missions worldwide.

Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 13 (MALS-13), known as the "Black Widows," was activated on March 1, 1942, and played a vital support role during World War II in the Pacific Theater. Originally established to provide logistical and maintenance support to Marine Aircraft Group 13, the squadron has supported numerous operations, including actions in the Vietnam War and Operations Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom. Over the decades, MALS-13 has been instrumental in ensuring the readiness of Marine Corps aviation units through supply, maintenance, and ordnance support. Today, MALS-13 is based at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, continuing its mission of supporting Marine aviation excellence.

Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 24 (MALS-24), part of Marine Aircraft Group 24 (MAG-24), was originally activated during World War II to provide aviation logistics support to Marine Corps aviation units. Over the decades, MALS-24 has played a critical role in supporting fixed- and rotary-wing squadrons through maintenance, supply, and ordnance services, ensuring operational readiness across the Pacific theater. The unit has participated in numerous operations and exercises, including deployments in support of Operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm, and various humanitarian missions in the Asia-Pacific region. Today, MALS-24 continues its mission at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, enabling MAG-24's aviation units to maintain combat effectiveness and readiness.

Marine Barracks Panama Canal Zone was established in the early 20th century to provide security and defense for the strategically vital Panama Canal. The unit’s primary mission was to safeguard the canal’s locks, facilities, and personnel against sabotage or attack, especially during periods of international tension such as World War II. Marines stationed there conducted regular patrols, manned guard posts, and trained for rapid response to any threat to the canal’s operation. The Marine Barracks remained an important element of U.S. military presence in the region until the gradual turnover of canal operations to Panama, culminating in the late 20th century.

The Marine Corps Engineer School (MCES) at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, was established to train Marines in essential combat engineering skills vital to the success of Marine Air-Ground Task Forces. Since its inception, MCES has provided instruction in areas such as demolition, construction, bridging, and field fortifications, preparing Marines to support both combat and humanitarian missions worldwide. The school has evolved to incorporate modern technologies and tactics, ensuring Marines are proficient in counter-IED operations, urban breaching, and expeditionary engineering. MCES continues to play a crucial role in developing the technical expertise and leadership of Marine Corps engineers.

**Marine Aviation Support Squadron 1 (MASS-1)**, based at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, was established during World War II to provide air support coordination for Marine Corps aviation units. Originally activated in February 1943 as Headquarters Squadron, 1st Marine Air Warning Group, the unit played a crucial role in the Pacific Theater by directing close air support for ground operations. Over the decades, MASS-1 has supported numerous operations, from Vietnam and Desert Storm to Operation Enduring Freedom, by delivering tactical air control and coordination for Marine Air-Ground Task Forces. Today, MASS-1 remains a vital component in ensuring seamless integration between air and ground forces within the United States Marine Corps.

Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort, located in South Carolina, is home to Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron (H&HS) Beaufort. The H&HS provides essential administrative, logistical, and operational support to the air station and its tenant units, including Marine Aircraft Group 31. Established in the 1940s during World War II, the unit has played a critical role in supporting Marine Corps aviation operations throughout its history. Today, H&HS Beaufort continues to enable the readiness and mission success of Marine aviators and support personnel stationed at MCAS Beaufort.

The Marine Corps Communications-Electronics School (MCCES) was established in 1932 at Quantico, Virginia, before relocating to Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, in 1971. MCCES serves as the primary training institution for Marines in the fields of communications, electronics maintenance, and tactical data systems. Over the decades, MCCES has adapted its curriculum to meet the evolving technological demands of the Marine Corps, playing a pivotal role in preparing Marines for operations in both peacetime and conflict. The school’s graduates have supported every major Marine Corps operation since World War II, ensuring reliable communications and electronic support on the battlefield.

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.

Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 28 (NMCB-28), known as the "Badgers," is a United States Navy Reserve Seabee battalion established in 1942 during World War II. The unit originally served in the Pacific Theater, constructing airfields, roads, and support facilities critical to Allied operations. Reactivated during the Cold War, NMCB-28 has since participated in numerous military and humanitarian construction missions worldwide, including deployments to the Middle East, Europe, and disaster relief operations at home and abroad. Today, NMCB-28 continues to provide vital construction support to Navy and joint-force missions, embodying the Seabee motto, "We Build, We Fight."

Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 58 (NMCB-58), known as the "Steelworkers," was a unit of the United States Navy Seabees. Commissioned during the Vietnam War era, NMCB-58 was tasked with construction and engineering duties in support of combat and humanitarian operations. The battalion deployed to Vietnam, where it built airfields, roads, bridges, and base facilities under challenging conditions. After Vietnam, NMCB-58 continued to serve in various locations around the world until it was decommissioned in the 1990s as part of post-Cold War force reductions.

The 4th Marine Regiment, known as the "China Marines," was originally formed in 1914 and quickly earned distinction during its early deployments in China, where it provided security to American interests amidst regional unrest. In World War II, the regiment famously defended Corregidor in the Philippines, ultimately suffering capture and enduring imprisonment as prisoners of war. After being reconstituted in 1944, the 4th Marines participated in the pivotal Battle of Okinawa, contributing to the final Allied push in the Pacific. Today, the 4th Marines are part of the 3rd Marine Division, remaining forward-deployed in the Indo-Pacific region and upholding a legacy of resilience and honor.