U.S. Marine Corps

The 7th Marine Expeditionary Brigade (7th MEB) is a task-organized, provisional unit of the United States Marine Corps, with a history dating back to World War II. Reactivated for various contingencies, the 7th MEB played a significant role during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm in 1990–1991, serving as the headquarters for Marine forces arriving in Saudi Arabia. The brigade has been called upon for rapid deployment in crisis situations, demonstrating its capabilities in amphibious operations and joint-force integration. Over the years, the 7th MEB has embodied the Marine Corps’ ethos of expeditionary readiness and operational flexibility.

The ElMaCo (Electronic Maintenance Company) is a specialized military unit established to provide advanced electronic maintenance and support for modern armed forces. Originating in the late 20th century, ElMaCo was created in response to the increasing reliance on sophisticated electronic systems in military operations, including communications, radar, and navigation equipment. Throughout its history, the unit has played a crucial role in ensuring operational readiness by troubleshooting, repairing, and upgrading electronic assets in both peacetime and during conflict. ElMaCo’s expertise has been vital in supporting complex missions, contributing significantly to the effectiveness and technological edge of its parent military organization.

**H&MS-16 (Headquarters & Maintenance Squadron 16)** was a United States Marine Corps aviation support unit based at Marine Corps Air Station Tustin, California. Activated during the Vietnam era, H&MS-16 provided essential maintenance, supply, and logistical support to Marine helicopter squadrons, ensuring operational readiness for aircraft and crews. One of the squadrons it supported was **HMH-363 (Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 363)**, known as the "Lucky Red Lions." HMH-363 operated CH-53 Sea Stallion helicopters and participated in combat and humanitarian missions in Vietnam and later global deployments, continuing its legacy of excellence in heavy-lift helicopter operations. Both units contributed significantly to Marine Corps aviation capabilities during their years of service at MCAS Tustin.

**Headquarters & Maintenance Squadron 32 (H&MS-32)** was a unit of Marine Aircraft Group 32 (MAG-32), part of the United States Marine Corps aviation. Activated during World War II, H&MS-32 provided essential maintenance and logistical support for the operational squadrons within MAG-32. The squadron played a pivotal role in ensuring aircraft readiness and sustained flight operations during key campaigns in the Pacific Theater, including actions in the Philippines and Okinawa. After the war, H&MS-32 continued to support Marine aviation through various reorganizations until its eventual deactivation as part of postwar force reductions.

Headquarters and Maintenance Squadron 32 (H&MS-32) was a vital support unit of Marine Aircraft Group 32 (MAG-32), based at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina. Activated in the post-World War II era, H&MS-32 provided essential maintenance, logistics, and administrative support to the flying squadrons of MAG-32. The squadron played a crucial role in ensuring aircraft readiness during both peacetime operations and periods of heightened military activity, including the Cold War. H&MS-32 was later redesignated as Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 32 (MALS-32), reflecting the evolving mission and structure of Marine Corps aviation support units.

Headquarters and Service Company (H&S Co) is a fundamental unit within United States Marine Corps battalions, providing essential command, control, and support functions. Established to facilitate the battalion’s operational effectiveness, H&S Co manages administrative, supply, communications, and logistical services. Throughout its history, H&S Co has supported combat and training operations in major conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam, and recent operations in the Middle East. The company's adaptability and professionalism ensure that battalion commanders can effectively coordinate missions and maintain combat readiness.

Headquarters and Service Battalion (H&S Bn), typically found within divisions and major commands of the United States Marine Corps, plays a crucial role in providing command, administrative, and logistical support. Originating in the early 20th century as part of the Marine Corps’ evolution into a modern fighting force, H&S Battalions have enabled the effective coordination of complex operations. Over the decades, they have supported major conflicts, including World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and recent operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, ensuring frontline units receive essential services and supplies. Today, H&S Bn continues to be the backbone of Marine Corps readiness, adapting to new technologies and mission demands.

Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 365 (HMM-365), known as the "Blue Knights," was activated on July 1, 1961. Initially flying the Sikorsky H-34, the unit later transitioned to the CH-46 Sea Knight, supporting Marine Corps operations with assault support and troop transport missions. HMM-365 distinguished itself during the Vietnam War and later participated in numerous operations, including peacekeeping and humanitarian missions worldwide. In 2008, the squadron was redesignated as VMM-365 with the introduction of the MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft, continuing its legacy of excellence in expeditionary aviation.

HMT-204, or Marine Helicopter Training Squadron 204, is a United States Marine Corps aviation training unit established in 1972. The squadron is based at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina, and serves as the Fleet Replacement Squadron for the CH-46 Sea Knight and later, the MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft. HMT-204's mission has been to train pilots and aircrew in rotary-wing and tiltrotor operations, ensuring combat readiness for Marine aviation units. Over the decades, the squadron has played a crucial role in developing skilled aviators who support Marine Corps operations worldwide.

Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron 302 (HMT-302), also known as the "Phoenix," was a United States Marine Corps helicopter training squadron. Activated in September 1969 at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Tustin, California, HMT-302 was tasked with training pilots and aircrew on the CH-53 Sea Stallion and later the CH-53E Super Stallion heavy-lift helicopters. Throughout its existence, the squadron played a critical role in preparing Marines for operational assignments around the globe. HMT-302 was deactivated in 2005 as part of a broader restructuring of Marine Corps aviation training.

Headquarters Company, 2nd Marine Regiment, is a pivotal command and control element of the 2nd Marine Regiment, part of the 2nd Marine Division, United States Marine Corps. The regiment was originally activated in 1913 and has participated in major conflicts, including World War II battles such as Tarawa, Saipan, and Tinian, as well as operations in the Korean War, Vietnam, and the Global War on Terrorism. HQ Company provides essential administrative, logistical, and operational support to ensure the regiment’s combat effectiveness. Throughout its history, the unit has exemplified the Marine Corps’ values of honor, courage, and commitment, earning numerous honors and citations for its service.

Marine Forces Pacific (MARFORPAC) is the United States Marine Corps service component command of the United States Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM). Officially established in 1992, MARFORPAC traces its lineage to Marine units that have operated in the Pacific theater since World War II, including key roles in campaigns such as Guadalcanal, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa. Headquartered at Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii, MARFORPAC is the Corps’ largest field command, overseeing all Marine forces assigned to the Indo-Pacific region. The unit plays a critical role in regional security, deterrence, and crisis response, working closely with allied and partner nations throughout the Pacific.

Marine Barracks Rota, Spain, was established in 1958 as part of the U.S. military presence at Naval Station Rota, supporting American and allied operations in the Mediterranean and surrounding regions. The Marines stationed there provided force protection, security for critical naval assets, and rapid-response capabilities for contingencies across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Over the decades, the unit played a crucial role in joint training exercises, embassy reinforcement, and crisis response, reflecting the United States' commitment to NATO and regional stability. Though its size and mission have evolved, Marine Barracks Rota remains a vital element of U.S. forward-deployed forces in Europe.

Marine Air Traffic Control Squadron 18 (MATCS-18) is a United States Marine Corps aviation command and control unit, originally activated during the Vietnam War era. The squadron is part of Marine Air Control Group 18, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, and is based at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. MATCS-18 provides air traffic control and aviation command support for Marine aviation operations, both in garrison and during deployed expeditionary missions throughout the Indo-Pacific region. The unit has participated in numerous joint exercises and humanitarian assistance operations, showcasing its capability to rapidly establish and maintain airfield operations in support of Marine Air-Ground Task Force objectives.

Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 53 (MCB-53), known as a "Seabee" battalion, was commissioned by the United States Navy during World War II. Activated in 1942, MCB-53 played a vital role in constructing airfields, bases, and other critical infrastructure in the Pacific Theater, supporting major operations such as the campaigns in the Philippines and Okinawa. The battalion was recognized for its ability to work under combat conditions, often building vital facilities while under enemy fire. After the war, MCB-53 continued to serve in various overseas locations before eventually being decommissioned as part of postwar drawdowns.

Marine Corps Logistics Base (MCLB) Barstow, California, was established in 1942 during World War II as a critical supply and maintenance depot for Marine Corps operations in the Pacific Theater. Located in the Mojave Desert, MCLB Barstow quickly evolved into a central logistics hub, supporting the repair, storage, and distribution of military vehicles, equipment, and supplies. Throughout the Cold War and subsequent conflicts, the base continued to modernize its facilities and capabilities, ensuring rapid deployment and readiness of Marine forces worldwide. Today, MCLB Barstow remains a vital component of the Marine Corps’ global logistics network, providing essential support to sustain operational effectiveness.

The Merchant Marine Reserve, established in 1913, was created as a component of the United States Naval Reserve to provide a pool of trained merchant mariners who could be called upon for naval service during times of conflict. Members were civilian mariners who received naval training and commissions, enabling them to serve as officers aboard merchant ships operating under naval control during wartime. The Reserve played a significant role during both World Wars, ensuring vital supply lines remained open by manning and protecting merchant vessels. In 1938, it was officially renamed the Naval Reserve Merchant Marine, and its legacy continues today in the Strategic Sealift Officer Program, supporting the Navy’s sealift and logistics missions.

Marine Wing Communications Squadron 28, Detachment B (MWCS-28 Det B) is a subordinate unit of MWCS-28, part of the United States Marine Corps' aviation command and control structure under the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. Established to provide expeditionary communications support, Det B has played a critical role in ensuring reliable command, control, and data services for aviation operations. Over its history, the detachment has deployed in support of numerous exercises, contingency operations, and overseas deployments, including operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. MWCS-28 Det B continues to uphold its mission by delivering robust and adaptable communications capabilities to enable Marine aviation success.

Marine Wing Communications Squadron 38 (MWCS-38) is a communications unit of the United States Marine Corps, based at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California. Activated in 1952, MWCS-38 has provided vital expeditionary communications support for aviation command and control operations, both in training and combat environments. The squadron has played critical roles during major conflicts, including Operations Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom, ensuring robust and secure communications for the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. Over the decades, MWCS-38 has earned a reputation for technical excellence and adaptability, supporting Marine aviation operations worldwide.

Marine Wing Support Squadron 274 (MWSS-274), known as the "Ironmen," was activated on June 2, 1986, at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina. The squadron provides aviation ground support to enable Marine aviation operations, including airfield construction, fuel operations, and aircraft rescue and firefighting. MWSS-274 has deployed in support of major operations such as Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom. Throughout its history, the unit has earned recognition for its adaptability and dedication to supporting Marine aviation missions worldwide.

Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 27 (NMCB-27), known as the "Skibees," is a unit of the United States Navy Seabees. Originally commissioned in 1942 during World War II, NMCB-27 supported critical construction operations in the Pacific Theater, building airfields, bases, and infrastructure. The battalion was decommissioned after the war but reactivated in the 1960s as a reserve unit, continuing to provide construction and engineering support during peacetime and contingency operations. Over the years, NMCB-27 has participated in various missions worldwide, including deployments in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, demonstrating versatility and resilience in both combat and humanitarian environments.

**VFMAT-101**, also known as Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 101, was a United States Marine Corps squadron established in 1969 at Marine Corps Air Station El Toro, California. The unit’s primary mission was to provide advanced training for Marine Corps aviators and naval flight officers in the F-4 Phantom II, later transitioning to the F/A-18 Hornet. Over its five decades of service, VFMAT-101 was instrumental in preparing generations of Marine Corps fighter pilots and weapon systems officers for operational assignments. The squadron, widely recognized by its callsign “Sharpshooters,” was deactivated in September 2019 as part of a broader modernization effort within Marine Corps aviation.

Marine Composite Reconnaissance Squadron 2 (VMCJ-2) was a United States Marine Corps aviation unit formed in the 1950s. Based primarily at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, the squadron was tasked with providing aerial photographic and electronic reconnaissance. VMCJ-2 operated various aircraft, including the RF-8 Crusader and EA-6A Intruder, supporting Marine Corps and joint operations during the Cold War and Vietnam War eras. The squadron was deactivated in 1975, with its missions and assets absorbed by other Marine Corps aviation units.

The 2nd Battalion, 27th Marines (2/27), was activated during World War II as part of the 5th Marine Division of the United States Marine Corps. The battalion is most renowned for its participation in the Battle of Iwo Jima in 1945, where it played a critical role in the intense fighting to capture Mount Suribachi and secure the island. After World War II, the battalion was deactivated, but it was later reactivated and served during the Vietnam War, engaging in several major operations, including Operation Allen Brook and Operation Oklahoma Hills. Throughout its history, 2/27 has distinguished itself with valor and professionalism in some of the Marine Corps’ most challenging campaigns.