U.S. Marine Corps

Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 268 (HMLA-268), known as the "Red Dragons," was activated on September 30, 1983, at Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, California. The squadron has operated various helicopters, including the AH-1 Cobra and UH-1 Huey, providing close air support, armed escort, and utility missions. HMLA-268 has deployed in support of numerous operations, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom. Over the years, the "Red Dragons" have distinguished themselves through their versatility, combat effectiveness, and dedication to Marine Corps aviation.

Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 266 (HMM-266) was activated on September 26, 1983, at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina. The squadron, known as the "Fighting Griffins," operated CH-46E Sea Knight helicopters and provided assault support for Marine Air-Ground Task Force operations. HMM-266 participated in numerous deployments and operations, including peacekeeping in Lebanon, Operations Desert Shield/Desert Storm, and multiple deployments in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In 2006, the squadron transitioned to the MV-22 Osprey and was redesignated as VMM-266, continuing its legacy of excellence in tiltrotor aviation.

HMM-363, known as the "Lucky Red Lions," is a United States Marine Corps helicopter squadron originally commissioned on June 2, 1952. The unit distinguished itself during the Vietnam War, providing critical assault support and medevac missions under challenging combat conditions. Over the decades, HMM-363 participated in numerous operations and exercises, adapting to evolving aviation technology and mission requirements. In 2012, the squadron transitioned from flying the CH-46 Sea Knight to the MV-22B Osprey and was redesignated as VMM-363, continuing its legacy of excellence in Marine Corps aviation.

HQ Battery, 11th Marine Regiment Communication Platoon (Comm Plt), based at Camp Pendleton, California, serves as the critical communications backbone for the 11th Marine Regiment, United States Marine Corps. The 11th Marine Regiment, activated in 1918, has participated in major conflicts including World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, Operations Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom. The Comm Platoon specializes in establishing and maintaining secure, reliable communications networks, ensuring command and control capabilities for artillery operations. Their expertise enables rapid information flow and coordination, directly contributing to the regiment's effectiveness in both training and combat deployments.

Headquarters Battery, 12th Marine Regiment, is a vital unit of the United States Marine Corps, stationed at Camp Hansen (formerly Camp Hague), Okinawa, Japan. The 12th Marines was originally activated in 1927 and has since played significant roles in major conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, providing artillery support for Marine operations. As the headquarters battery, the unit is responsible for command, control, and administrative functions, ensuring the regiment's operational readiness. From its strategic location on Okinawa, HQ Battery continues to support Marine Corps missions throughout the Indo-Pacific region, contributing to regional security and U.S. commitments overseas.

HQ Company, Headquarters Battalion, 5th Marine Division was activated during World War II as part of the U.S. Marine Corps’ rapid expansion for operations in the Pacific Theater. The unit played a pivotal role in the planning and coordination of division-level operations, most notably during the Battle of Iwo Jima in 1945, where the 5th Marine Division earned distinction for its valor and effectiveness. HQ Company provided critical command, control, and administrative support to ensure seamless communication and logistics throughout the campaign. After the war, the unit was deactivated, but its legacy continues to be honored as part of Marine Corps history.

Headquarters Regiment, 1st Marine Logistics Group (HQ REG, 1st MLG) Communications Company (COMM CO) has a distinguished legacy supporting United States Marine Corps operations since its establishment. Activated in the early 2000s as part of the evolving structure of the 1st MLG at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, COMM CO has provided vital communications support for logistics operations. The company has deployed in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, ensuring reliable command and control for forward-deployed Marine forces. Today, COMM CO continues to enhance the 1st MLG’s operational effectiveness by maintaining cutting-edge communications capabilities in support of expeditionary logistics missions worldwide.

The Joint Intelligence Center (JIC) is a critical military unit responsible for the centralized collection, analysis, and dissemination of intelligence in support of joint operations. Established during the late 20th century, JICs became essential components of unified commands, particularly during Operation Desert Storm, where rapid and accurate intelligence sharing proved vital. Over the years, JICs have evolved to integrate advanced technologies, enabling real-time situational awareness across multiple domains. Today, they play a pivotal role in modern conflicts by providing actionable intelligence that enhances decision-making and operational effectiveness for commanders at all levels.

K Battery, 4th Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment (K Battery 4/12), is an artillery unit of the United States Marine Corps with a distinguished history of service. Originally activated during World War II, the 12th Marine Regiment provided crucial fire support during campaigns in the Pacific Theater, including the Battle of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. In subsequent decades, elements such as K Battery participated in major conflicts including the Vietnam War, where they delivered artillery support in key operations. Over the years, K Battery 4/12 has continued to uphold its legacy of excellence in fire support and expeditionary warfare, embodying the Marine Corps' commitment to readiness and adaptability.

Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 14 (MALS-14), originally designated as Headquarters and Maintenance Squadron 14, was activated on 1 March 1942. The unit provides aviation logistics support, including supply, maintenance, and ordnance, to Marine Aircraft Group 14 (MAG-14) and its assigned squadrons. Over the decades, MALS-14 has supported operations in major conflicts such as Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom. Stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, MALS-14 continues to play a vital role in ensuring the readiness and sustainability of Marine Corps aviation assets.

**MARBKS BDA (Marine Barracks, Bataan Detachment Alpha)** is a distinguished unit within the Philippine Marine Corps. Established in the early 1980s, the detachment was originally tasked with providing security to key military installations and strategic assets in the Bataan Peninsula. Over the decades, MARBKS BDA has participated in numerous internal security operations, humanitarian assistance missions, and joint training exercises with allied forces. The unit is renowned for its discipline, operational readiness, and significant contributions to regional stability in Central Luzon.

The **Marine Air Ground Training Force** is a specialized unit within the United States Marine Corps, created to enhance the integration and effectiveness of combined arms operations. Established in recent decades, its mission centers on providing realistic, large-scale training environments that replicate modern battlefields, enabling Marine units to hone their skills in air, ground, logistics, and command and control operations. The unit is renowned for its rigorous exercises, such as live-fire drills and joint force maneuvers, which ensure Marines are prepared for expeditionary warfare. Through its innovative training programs, the Marine Air Ground Training Force plays a critical role in maintaining the combat readiness and adaptability of the Marine Corps.

Marine Barracks Kittery, ME, was established in the early 19th century to provide security and support for the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, a vital U.S. Navy facility located on Seavey Island. Marines stationed at the barracks played a crucial role in safeguarding the shipyard’s operations, personnel, and infrastructure, particularly during periods of heightened military activity such as the Civil War and both World Wars. The unit was also responsible for maintaining discipline among naval personnel and participated in ceremonial duties. Marine Barracks Kittery was eventually deactivated in the late 20th century as part of broader military restructuring, but its legacy endures in the region’s rich military history.

Marine Barracks Newport, Rhode Island, was established in the late 19th century to provide security and support for the U.S. Naval Station Newport and its affiliated schools. Over the decades, the Marines stationed there played a crucial role in base defense, ceremonial duties, and training support for naval personnel. During both World Wars, the barracks supported increased activity at Newport as the naval station became a vital training and logistics hub. The unit remained active until the late 20th century, when changes in military structure and base realignments led to its deactivation.

**Marine Barracks, Naval Air Station North Island (NASNI): Short Military History** Marine Barracks at Naval Air Station North Island (NASNI), located in San Diego, California, has played a vital role in base security and ceremonial duties since its activation. Established to provide security, law enforcement, and force protection for one of the U.S. Navy’s most important aviation hubs, the unit has supported naval operations throughout periods of peace and conflict. Marines assigned to NASNI have contributed to installation defense, participated in base emergency response, and maintained readiness to respond to emerging threats. The unit also supports community relations and honors military traditions through ceremonial functions at this historic naval installation.

Marine Air Support Squadron 6 (MASS-6) is a United States Marine Corps reserve unit that was activated on July 1, 1962. The squadron’s primary mission is to provide direct air support coordination to Marine Air-Ground Task Forces (MAGTFs) by operating the Direct Air Support Center (DASC). MASS-6 has participated in numerous training exercises and operations, supporting both active and reserve Marine units and integrating with joint and allied forces. Over its history, the unit has been recognized for its professionalism and adaptability, playing a crucial role in enhancing the Marine Corps’ close air support capabilities.

Marine Air Support Squadron 1 (MASS-1) is a United States Marine Corps aviation command and control unit, part of Marine Air Support Group 28 (MASG-28) and the 2d Marine Aircraft Wing (2dMAW). Established in 1942 during World War II, MASS-1 has played a key role in providing direct air support coordination for Marine ground forces during major conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. The squadron specializes in operating the Direct Air Support Center (DASC), managing and directing close air support missions for maneuvering ground units. Today, MASS-1 continues to serve as a critical component of the Marine Corps’ air-ground task force, supporting both training and operational deployments worldwide.

Marine Air Traffic Control Unit 64 (MATCU-64) was a United States Marine Corps aviation command and control unit established during the Cold War era. The unit’s primary mission was to provide expeditionary air traffic control services for Marine Corps air operations, both at home and during overseas deployments. MATCU-64 participated in numerous training exercises and readiness operations, enhancing the safety and efficiency of Marine aviation. Eventually, with force restructuring and modernization within the Marine Corps, MATCU-64 was deactivated and its responsibilities were absorbed by successor units.

The Marine Expeditionary Unit Service Support Group 15 (MSSG-15) was a logistics unit within the United States Marine Corps, primarily tasked with providing combat service support to the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU). Established to enhance the operational reach and sustainability of the 15th MEU, MSSG-15 participated in numerous deployments, including humanitarian missions and combat operations such as Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom in the early 2000s. The unit excelled in delivering supply, maintenance, transportation, health services, and other critical support functions during amphibious and expeditionary missions. In 2006, MSSG-15 was redesignated as Combat Logistics Battalion 15 (CLB-15), reflecting broader changes in Marine Corps logistics structure.

Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 2 (MWHS-2) is a United States Marine Corps unit that serves as the headquarters element for the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (2nd MAW). Activated on January 1, 1941, MWHS-2 has provided essential administrative and command support for aviation operations throughout its history. The squadron has supported combat operations in major conflicts, including World War II, the Gulf War, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, MWHS-2 continues to play a vital role in managing and coordinating the activities of the 2nd MAW.

Marine Wing Support Group 27 (MWSG-27) was activated in 1953 and has been a key aviation ground support unit within the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, based at MCAS New River, North Carolina. The group provided essential support services such as engineering, motor transport, supply, and airfield operations, enabling the effective deployment and sustainment of Marine aviation assets. Throughout its history, MWSG-27 supported numerous operations and deployments, including exercises and combat missions in the Middle East. The unit was deactivated in 2020 as part of the Marine Corps’ Force Design 2030 restructuring initiative.

Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 16 (NMCB 16), also known as "Seabees," is a reserve battalion within the United States Navy's Naval Construction Force. The unit was initially commissioned during World War II, serving in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters, where it played a vital role in building airfields, roads, and other critical infrastructure in support of combat operations. After being decommissioned post-war, NMCB 16 was reactivated as a reserve unit, providing construction support during training exercises and contingency operations worldwide. Throughout its history, the battalion has exemplified the Seabee motto, "We Build, We Fight," by delivering essential engineering capabilities in both war and peacetime missions.

The Supply Officer Material Support Squadron (SOMS) at Marine Corps Support Squadron (MCSS), Yuma, Arizona, has played a crucial role in supporting Marine Corps aviation and operational readiness since its establishment. Located at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, the unit specializes in providing comprehensive logistics, supply chain management, and material support to aviation units and other tenant commands. Over the years, SOMS MCSS Yuma has adapted to evolving logistics technologies and procedures, ensuring timely delivery of mission-critical equipment and supplies. Its dedicated personnel are integral to the sustained effectiveness of Marine Corps operations in the Southwestern United States and in support of deployed forces worldwide.

The United States Merchant Marine is a civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Navy, composed of civilian-owned merchant ships and their crews that transport goods and materials during peacetime and serve as a vital logistical force in wartime. Its origins date back to the American Revolution, when merchant vessels supported the Continental Navy. During World War II, the Merchant Marine played a crucial role, suffering high casualty rates while delivering troops, equipment, and supplies to every theater of war. Today, the Merchant Marine continues to support military operations and national emergencies, maintaining a fleet ready to serve U.S. interests around the globe.