U.S. Marine Corps

Headquarters & Maintenance Squadron 26 (H&MS-26) was a United States Marine Corps aviation support unit assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 26, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. Activated in the 1950s, H&MS-26 provided critical logistical, administrative, and intermediate maintenance support to the helicopter squadrons of MAG-26, especially during deployments and operations. The squadron played a vital role during the Vietnam War era and in subsequent Cold War military exercises and contingencies. In 1988, H&MS-26 was redesignated as Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 26 (MALS-26), reflecting its evolving role in support of Marine aviation operations.

Headquarters and Service Company (H&S Co), Headquarters and Service Battalion (H&S Bn), 3rd Force Service Regiment (3rd FSR) has a proud legacy of providing essential command, administrative, and logistical support to the United States Marine Corps in the Pacific region. Established to support the operational needs of the 3rd Marine Logistics Group, H&S Co has played a critical role in enabling expeditionary operations, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief missions throughout the Indo-Pacific. Over the years, the unit has adapted to evolving missions, ensuring seamless command and control, communications, and sustainment for deployed forces. Through its dedication and professionalism, H&S Co, H&S Bn, 3rd FSR continues to uphold the traditions of excellence and service within the Marine Corps.

Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 24 (MABS-24) is a United States Marine Corps aviation ground support unit established in 1944, originally as Headquarters Squadron 43 during World War II. The squadron provided logistical and aviation support throughout the Pacific Theater, including during the Battle of Okinawa. Over the decades, MABS-24 has supported various conflicts and humanitarian missions while stationed at Marine Corps Base Hawaii. Today, MABS-24 continues its mission of providing comprehensive aviation ground support, ensuring the operational readiness of Marine aviation units in the Pacific region.

Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 24 (MALS-24), known as the "Warlords," was originally activated as Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron 24 in 1952. The unit has provided aviation logistics support to the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing and later to Marine Aircraft Group 24, enabling sustained operations for a variety of aircraft. MALS-24 has played a vital role in numerous exercises, deployments, and real-world contingencies, including operations in the Asia-Pacific region. The squadron continues to deliver critical maintenance, supply, and ordnance support to Marine aviation forces from its home at Marine Corps Base Hawaii.

Marine Barracks Guam was a prominent United States Marine Corps installation located on the island of Guam. Established shortly after the United States acquired Guam in 1898, the barracks played a crucial role in defending the island and supporting American interests in the Pacific. Marines stationed at the barracks provided security, conducted training, and participated in local civic activities. During World War II, the barracks were overrun during the 1941 Japanese invasion, but Marines returned following the island's liberation in 1944, resuming their mission until the barracks were eventually deactivated in 1992.

Marine Barracks Naval Weapons Station (NWS) Yorktown, Virginia, was established in 1918 to provide security and support for one of the U.S. Navy's key ordnance storage and handling facilities. The Marines stationed at Yorktown have played a vital role in safeguarding ammunition, explosives, and critical naval assets through multiple conflicts, including World War II and the Cold War. Over the decades, the unit has adapted its mission to include anti-terrorism, force protection, and support for base operations. Today, Marine Barracks NWS Yorktown continues to serve as a critical component of the Marine Corps’ security forces, ensuring the safety and readiness of vital naval operations in the Hampton Roads area.

Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 (MWSS-171) was activated on 16 April 1979 at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. The unit provides essential aviation ground support to Marine Aircraft Group 12 and other forward-deployed forces in the Pacific region. MWSS-171 has participated in numerous training exercises and humanitarian missions across the Asia-Pacific, ensuring the readiness and sustainability of Marine aviation operations. Over the years, the squadron has earned recognition for its rapid response capabilities and support during both combat and peacetime operations.

Marine Wing Support Squadron 472 (MWSS-472) is a United States Marine Corps Reserve aviation ground support unit based at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Cherry Point, North Carolina. Activated in 1986, MWSS-472 provides essential support such as airfield operations, engineering, motor transport, and fueling to Marine aviation units. The squadron has participated in numerous training exercises and operational deployments, including support roles during Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. MWSS-472 continues to play a vital role in ensuring the operational readiness and sustainability of Marine Corps aviation assets both at home and abroad.

Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 18 (NMCB 18), known as the "Desert Battalion," is a unit of the United States Navy Reserve Seabees. Established during World War II, NMCB 18 originally supported construction and engineering operations in the Pacific Theater, contributing to vital airfields, bases, and infrastructure. Reactivated in the postwar era, the battalion has since participated in numerous missions, including operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, providing expeditionary construction and humanitarian assistance. Today, NMCB 18 continues to support both combat and peacetime operations around the world, exemplifying the Seabee motto: "We Build, We Fight."

The Officer Candidate School (OCS) is a military training institution established to commission officers in various branches of the armed forces. Originating in the United States during World War I and expanding significantly during World War II, OCS was designed to quickly and effectively prepare enlisted personnel and civilians for leadership roles. The curriculum emphasizes leadership development, military tactics, and physical fitness, ensuring candidates are ready for the responsibilities of command. Today, OCS continues to serve as a vital pathway for commissioning officers, adapting its programs to meet the evolving needs of modern militaries.

U.S. Navy Mobile Construction Battalion ONE (USNMCB 1), also known as "Seabees," was first commissioned in 1942 during World War II to provide critical construction support to the Navy and Marine Corps in combat zones. Throughout its history, NMCB 1 has participated in major conflicts including World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and operations in the Middle East, building airfields, bases, roads, and other vital infrastructure under often hazardous conditions. The battalion is renowned for its "Can Do" spirit, adaptability, and technical expertise, often working in austere environments to support both combat and humanitarian missions. Today, NMCB 1 continues to serve as a vital unit within the Naval Construction Force, ready to deploy worldwide in support of U.S. military and allied operations.

Marine Attack Squadron 242 (VMA-242), known as the "Bats," was commissioned during World War II in 1943 as Marine Torpedo Bombing Squadron 242 (VMTB-242), flying the TBM Avenger. The squadron saw action in the Pacific Theater, providing close air support and anti-shipping missions. Reactivated and redesignated multiple times, VMA-242 participated in major conflicts including the Vietnam War, flying the A-6 Intruder in night attack missions. In the 1980s, the squadron transitioned to the AV-8B Harrier II and later became VMFA-242, operating the F-35B Lightning II, continuing its legacy of aviation excellence within the U.S. Marine Corps.

Marine Attack Squadron 533 (VMA-533), known as the "Hawks," was originally commissioned during World War II in 1943 as Marine Scout Bombing Squadron 533 (VMSB-533). The squadron distinguished itself in the Pacific Theater, notably participating in the Battle of Okinawa. Postwar, the unit transitioned through various aircraft and missions, eventually becoming a jet attack squadron and adopting the A-6 Intruder and later the AV-8B Harrier II. VMA-533 served with distinction in multiple conflicts, including the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm, before being deactivated in 2007.

Marine Attack Training Squadron 203 (VMAT-203) was a United States Marine Corps aviation training squadron based at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina. Established in 1947, the squadron’s primary mission was to provide training for Marine aviators in attack aircraft, most notably the AV-8B Harrier II. Over its operational history, VMAT-203 played a critical role in preparing pilots for the unique challenges of vertical/short takeoff and landing (V/STOL) operations. The squadron was deactivated in 2021 as part of the Marine Corps’ force modernization efforts.

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 451 (VMFA-451), known as "The Warlords," was a United States Marine Corps fighter squadron established during World War II. The squadron originally flew the F4U Corsair, earning distinction in the Pacific Theater. Over the decades, VMFA-451 transitioned through several aircraft, including the F-8 Crusader and F-4 Phantom II, before flying the F/A-18 Hornet. Based at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, the squadron supported various combat and training operations until its deactivation in 1997.

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 321 (VMFA-321), known as the “Hell’s Angels,” was a reserve squadron of the United States Marine Corps. Originally activated in 1943 during World War II as VMF-321, the squadron flew the F4U Corsair in the Pacific Theater. After deactivation post-war, it was reactivated as a Marine Reserve unit and later transitioned to flying jet aircraft, including the F-8 Crusader and F-4 Phantom II, before ultimately operating the F/A-18 Hornet. VMFA-321 was based at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland until its deactivation in 2004, marking over 60 years of service.

The **11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (11th MEU)**, activated in 1979, is a forward-deployed, rapid-response force of the United States Marine Corps based at Camp Pendleton, California. As part of the I Marine Expeditionary Force, the 11th MEU is designed to deploy quickly by sea, air, or land to conduct a range of missions, including amphibious assaults, humanitarian assistance, and crisis response operations. Over the decades, the 11th MEU has participated in major operations such as Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom, providing vital support in combat and peacekeeping roles. The unit continues to serve as a key element of America’s global force-in-readiness, routinely deploying to the Western Pacific and the Middle East.

The 1st Marine Corps Recruiting Division is a vital component of the United States Marine Corps Recruiting Command, responsible for enlisting qualified individuals from the eastern United States. Established to streamline and coordinate recruitment efforts, the division has played a crucial role in sustaining the Marine Corps' force readiness through various conflicts and peacetime periods. Over the decades, recruiters from the 1st Division have adapted to changing demographics, technologies, and societal trends to ensure the Marine Corps attracts and retains top talent. Their ongoing mission supports the Corps’ legacy by continually supplying highly motivated Marines to serve around the globe.

The 1st Marine Logistics Group (1st MLG) was activated in 1947 as the 1st Combat Service Group at Camp Pendleton, California, to provide vital logistical support to the 1st Marine Division. The unit saw extensive service during the Korean War, supporting combat operations and ensuring the sustainment of Marine forces. Over the decades, the 1st MLG has participated in major conflicts, including the Vietnam War, Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Today, the 1st MLG continues to deliver combat logistics, supply, and maintenance support to Marine Air-Ground Task Forces as a critical component of the I Marine Expeditionary Force.

The 2nd Fleet Antiterrorism Security Team (FAST) Company is a specialized unit within the United States Marine Corps, activated in 1987 to provide rapid-deployment security forces for the protection of vital naval and national assets. Based at Naval Weapons Station Yorktown, Virginia, 2nd FAST Company has deployed worldwide in response to crises, including embassy reinforcements, counter-terrorism operations, and critical infrastructure protection. The unit is renowned for its rigorous training in close-quarters battle, urban combat, and security operations. Over the decades, 2nd FAST has played a crucial role in augmenting security at U.S. embassies and installations during heightened threat levels and major international incidents.

The II Marine Expeditionary Force (II MEF) is a Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) headquartered at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Established in 1962, II MEF has played a key role in numerous operations, including Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom. As the largest of the Marine Corps’ three MEFs, it provides combat-ready forces for rapid deployment worldwide. II MEF regularly trains with allied nations and supports humanitarian and disaster relief missions, contributing to global security and U.S. national interests.

The 2nd Marine Logistics Group (2nd MLG) is a major logistics unit of the United States Marine Corps based at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Established in 1947 as the 2nd Combat Service Group, the unit has provided critical combat service support to the II Marine Expeditionary Force in numerous operations, including the Gulf War, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Over the decades, 2nd MLG has delivered vital logistics, engineering, health services, and supply support to Marine and joint forces, ensuring operational readiness and sustainability. The group continues to adapt and innovate to meet the evolving needs of the modern battlefield.

Headquarters and Service Battalion, Communications Company, 2nd Force Service Support Group (H&S Bn Comm Co 2nd FSSG) has a distinguished history of providing vital communications support to U.S. Marine Corps operations. Activated as part of the 2nd FSSG, the unit specialized in establishing, maintaining, and securing command and control networks during both training exercises and real-world missions. Over the years, H&S Bn Comm Co played key roles in supporting logistics and command elements during operations such as Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom. Their commitment to reliable communications has been essential to the success of Marine Corps missions across the globe.

Headquarters Battalion, 10th Marines was activated on November 15, 1940 at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, as part of the 2d Marine Division. During World War II, the battalion participated in major campaigns including Guadalcanal, Tarawa, Saipan, Tinian, and Okinawa, providing crucial command and control, communications, and logistical support. Following the war, the battalion was relocated to Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, where it remains today. Over the decades, Headquarters Battalion has continued to support 10th Marines and II Marine Expeditionary Force operations, both in peacetime and during deployments such as Operation Desert Storm and the Global War on Terrorism.