U.S. Marine Corps

The 1st Battalion, 13th Marines (1/13) is an artillery battalion of the United States Marine Corps, first activated during World War II in February 1943. The battalion served with distinction in the Pacific Theater, participating in key campaigns such as the battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. After World War II, 1/13 was deactivated and reactivated several times, notably serving during the Vietnam War from 1966 to 1970, providing vital fire support. The unit has continued to serve in various capacities, supporting Marine operations and maintaining readiness as part of the 13th Marine Regiment.

The 2nd Battalion, 26th Marines (2/26) was an infantry battalion of the United States Marine Corps, first activated during World War II in 1944. The battalion saw intense combat in the Battle of Iwo Jima, contributing significantly to the capture of the island. Reactivated for the Vietnam War, 2/26 participated in numerous major operations, including the defense of Khe Sanh during the 1968 siege. The battalion was deactivated in 1970 following its return from Vietnam, having earned a distinguished combat record.

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 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines (3/7) is an infantry battalion of the United States Marine Corps, established in 1941. The unit saw distinguished service during World War II, participating in pivotal battles such as Guadalcanal, Peleliu, and Okinawa. During the Korean War, 3/7 fought in major engagements including the Battle of Chosin Reservoir. In recent history, the battalion has deployed extensively to Iraq and Afghanistan as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, earning a reputation for effectiveness in combat and counterinsurgency operations.

The 4th Supply Battalion, a unit of the United States Marine Corps Reserve, was activated to provide essential supply and logistics support to Marine forces. Headquartered in Newport News, Virginia, the battalion plays a crucial role in ensuring combat readiness by managing the procurement, storage, and distribution of military supplies and equipment. Over the years, 4th Supply Battalion has supported numerous training exercises, mobilizations, and overseas operations, including deployments in support of Operations Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom. The unit’s commitment to excellence has earned it recognition for its efficiency and reliability in sustaining Marine Corps missions worldwide.

The **Combined Action Program (CAP) Marines** were a unique unit formed by the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, beginning in 1965. Their mission was to integrate small groups of Marines with local South Vietnamese Popular Forces in rural villages, providing both military training and security against Viet Cong insurgents. CAP Marines not only engaged in combat operations but also worked to win the "hearts and minds" of the local population through civic action and community engagement. The program was considered innovative for its emphasis on counterinsurgency and partnership, and it left a lasting legacy on U.S. military doctrine regarding irregular warfare.

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 Medium Helicopter Squadron 162 (HMM-162), known as the "Golden Eagles," was commissioned on June 30, 1951. The squadron has a distinguished history, including participation in the 1958 Lebanon crisis, where it executed the first ship-to-shore helicopter assault in combat. Over the decades, HMM-162 supported operations in Vietnam, the Gulf War, and humanitarian missions such as disaster relief in Haiti following the 2010 earthquake. The squadron was later redesignated as VMM-162 after transitioning to the MV-22B Osprey, continuing its legacy of providing assault support for the United States Marine Corps.

Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 262 (HMM-262), known as the "Flying Tigers," was activated on September 1, 1951. The squadron participated in significant operations during the Vietnam War, providing assault support, troop transport, and resupply missions. Over the decades, HMM-262 has been deployed for humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and regional security missions throughout the Asia-Pacific region. In 2009, the squadron transitioned to the MV-22 Osprey and was redesignated as VMM-262, continuing its legacy of rapid-response and expeditionary operations as part of the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing.

Headquarters Company, Headquarters Battalion, 1st Marine Division, has played a pivotal role in coordinating and supporting the operations of the storied 1st Marine Division since its activation in February 1941. The company has provided essential command, control, and administrative support during major conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam War, and the Global War on Terrorism. Throughout its history, Headquarters Company has enabled the division's combat effectiveness by managing communications, logistics, intelligence, and personnel functions. Its Marines and Sailors have consistently exemplified the division’s motto, "No better friend, no worse enemy," while supporting missions around the globe.

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 11 (MALS-11), known as the "Devilfish," was originally activated in December 1921 as Flight 1, 2nd Air Squadron. The unit played a critical support role during World War II in the Pacific theater, providing aviation logistics and maintenance to Marine aircraft. Over the decades, MALS-11 has supported numerous operations, including the Korean War, Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, and the Global War on Terrorism. Today, MALS-11 continues to deliver comprehensive aviation logistics support to Marine Aircraft Group 11 (MAG-11), ensuring the operational readiness of Marine Corps aviation assets.

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 371 (MWSS-371), known as the "Sandsharks," was activated on 1 April 1986 at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona. The unit provides essential aviation ground support, including airfield operations, engineering, fuel, and motor transport, to Marine aviation units. MWSS-371 has supported numerous operations and exercises, notably deploying in support of Operations Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom, where it played a critical role in expeditionary airfield establishment and sustainment. The squadron continues to be a key asset in enabling Marine Corps aviation operations worldwide.

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."

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 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.