U.S. Marine Corps

Naval Mobile Construction Battalion FOUR (NMCB-4), known as the "Pioneers," was first commissioned in 1942 during World War II to support Pacific theater operations. The battalion played a vital role in constructing airfields, bases, and infrastructure across the Pacific islands, enabling Allied advances. Since World War II, NMCB-4 has participated in numerous conflicts and humanitarian missions, including Vietnam, the Gulf War, and disaster relief efforts worldwide. Renowned for their "Can Do" spirit, NMCB-4 continues to provide critical construction and engineering support to the U.S. Navy and joint forces globally.

The 1st Marines, also known as the 1st Marine Regiment, is one of the oldest and most decorated regiments in the United States Marine Corps. Activated in 1913, the regiment saw early service in the Caribbean and later distinguished itself during World War II, notably at Guadalcanal, Peleliu, and Okinawa. During the Korean War, the 1st Marines played a key role in the Inchon landing and the Chosin Reservoir campaign. The regiment has since served in Vietnam, the Gulf War, and more recent operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, continuing its legacy of valor and service.

The 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines (3/7), is a distinguished infantry battalion of the United States Marine Corps, originally activated in 1941. It earned a storied reputation during World War II, fighting in major Pacific battles such as Guadalcanal, Peleliu, and Okinawa. The battalion also served with valor in the Korean and Vietnam Wars, and more recently, has played a key role in operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Renowned for its combat effectiveness and resilience, 3/7 continues to serve as a vital component of the 1st Marine Division.

The 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines (3/7), was activated in 1941 and has a storied history within the United States Marine Corps. The battalion distinguished itself during World War II, particularly in the battles of Guadalcanal, Peleliu, and Okinawa. During the Korean and Vietnam Wars, 3/7 participated in numerous significant operations, earning many unit commendations. In recent decades, 3/7 has deployed multiple times in support of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, continuing its legacy of excellence and valor in combat.

The 1st Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment (1/14th Marines) was a reserve artillery battalion of the United States Marine Corps, first activated during World War II. The unit distinguished itself in the Pacific Theater, supporting major campaigns such as the Battle of Iwo Jima, where its accurate and sustained firepower proved vital to the success of Marine infantry assaults. After the war, 1/14th Marines was deactivated and reactivated several times, serving as a key reserve artillery asset during the Cold War and in the Global War on Terror. The battalion's final deactivation occurred in 2017, as part of a broader restructuring of Marine Corps reserve artillery forces.

The 1st Amphibian Tractor Battalion (1st Amtracs) was activated in February 1942 as part of the United States Marine Corps during World War II. The battalion played a crucial role in the Pacific Theater, providing amphibious assault and landing support during major campaigns such as Tarawa, Saipan, and Iwo Jima. After World War II, 1st Amtracs continued to serve with distinction in Korea and later Vietnam, adapting to evolving amphibious warfare needs with new generations of amphibious vehicles. The unit’s legacy endures as a pioneer in amphibious operations and a key component of Marine Corps expeditionary capabilities.

The 2nd Battalion, 26th Marines (2/26) was an infantry battalion of the United States Marine Corps, first activated during World War II. The unit saw extensive combat during the Vietnam War, where it participated in operations such as the defense of Khe Sanh during the 1968 siege, Operation Kingfisher, and various actions in the Quang Tri and Thua Thien provinces. The battalion earned a reputation for its resilience under fire and effectiveness in both defensive and offensive operations. 2/26 was deactivated in the early 1970s as part of postwar force reductions.

Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 133 (NMCB-133), known as the "Runnin’ Roos," was commissioned on August 17, 1943, during World War II. The battalion earned distinction for its construction and engineering support throughout the Pacific Theater, including pivotal roles in the Philippines and Okinawa campaigns. Post-war, NMCB-133 supported operations during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, providing critical infrastructure, airfield, and base construction. Today, the battalion continues to serve as a vital component of the U.S. Navy Seabees, deploying worldwide in support of both combat and humanitarian missions.

MAG 16

48 members

Marine Aircraft Group 16 (MAG-16) is a United States Marine Corps aviation unit established in March 1952 at Marine Corps Air Station Santa Ana, California. Originally formed as a helicopter group, MAG-16 played a significant role during the Vietnam War, conducting air assault, troop transport, and logistical support missions. The group participated in major operations such as the Battle of Khe Sanh and the evacuation of Saigon. Today, MAG-16 is based at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, and continues to provide assault support as part of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing.

Naval Mobile Construction Battalion THREE (NMCB 3), known as the “Better Than Best” battalion, was originally commissioned in 1942 during World War II. The unit distinguished itself in the Pacific Theater, constructing airfields, roads, and bases in support of combat operations. NMCB 3 has since deployed in support of numerous conflicts and operations, including the Korean and Vietnam Wars, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Throughout its history, the battalion has exemplified the Seabee motto, “We Build, We Fight,” providing critical construction and engineering support to the United States Navy and allied forces worldwide.

**1st Battalion, 3rd Marines (1/3), United States Marine Corps** The 1st Battalion, 3rd Marines (1/3), known as the "Lava Dogs," was activated in 1942 and has served with distinction in numerous major conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the Global War on Terrorism. The battalion participated in iconic campaigns such as Bougainville, Guam, and Iwo Jima during WWII, and later saw extensive combat operations in Vietnam. In the 21st century, 1/3 deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan, conducting counterinsurgency and security operations. Hospital Corpsmen Second Class (HM2) have played a critical role within 1/3, providing life-saving medical care to Marines and Sailors on the front lines throughout the unit’s storied history.

MAG 12

46 members

Marine Aircraft Group 12 (MAG-12) was commissioned on March 1, 1942, at Camp Kearny, California, as part of the United States Marine Corps. During World War II, MAG-12 played a significant role in the Pacific Theater, providing air support for key campaigns such as Bougainville and the Philippines. After the war, the group was deployed to Korea, where it supported United Nations forces during the Korean War with close air support and interdiction missions. Today, MAG-12 is based at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, serving as a forward-deployed aviation combat element supporting U.S. and allied interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

Marine Air Control Squadron 6 (MACS-6) is a United States Marine Corps aviation command and control unit based at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, and falls under Marine Air Control Group 28 (MACG-28), 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. Activated during World War II, MACS-6 has provided radar surveillance, airspace management, and air traffic control in support of Marine aviation operations. Over the decades, the unit has participated in major conflicts and exercises, including the Cold War, Operation Desert Storm, and the Global War on Terrorism, delivering critical air control capabilities. Today, MACS-6 continues to play a vital role in ensuring the operational readiness and effectiveness of Marine Corps aviation on the East Coast.

MAG 13

44 members

Marine Aircraft Group 13 (MAG-13) is a United States Marine Corps aviation unit activated on March 1, 1942, during World War II. Initially established at San Diego, California, MAG-13 participated in key campaigns in the Pacific Theater, including operations in the Solomon Islands and the Philippines. After World War II, the unit was deactivated but later reactivated and played significant roles in the Vietnam War, providing close air support and conducting air interdiction missions. Today, MAG-13 is based at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, and operates as part of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, supporting Marine Air-Ground Task Force operations with advanced fixed-wing aircraft.

The **1st Force Service Regiment (1st FSR)** was activated in 1947 and later re-designated as the **1st Force Service Support Group (1st FSSG)**, providing vital logistical and combat support to the U.S. Marine Corps. During the Vietnam War, it was reorganized as the **Force Logistics Command (FLC)** in 1967 to support III Marine Amphibious Force operations, managing supply, transportation, engineering, medical, and maintenance functions. The FLC played a crucial role in sustaining Marine operations throughout the conflict until the U.S. withdrawal in 1971. After Vietnam, the unit evolved into the modern **1st Marine Logistics Group**, continuing its legacy of support in subsequent conflicts.

The 1st Marine Air Wing MARS Unit is a specialized component within the United States Marine Corps, operating under the larger 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. Established to provide advanced communications, reconnaissance, and rapid response capabilities, the unit has played a vital role in supporting Marine air operations throughout the Asia-Pacific region. Over the years, the MARS Unit has been instrumental in enhancing command and control during both combat missions and humanitarian relief efforts. Its Marines are highly trained in airborne, electronic warfare, and expeditionary support, making the unit a critical asset to the overall effectiveness of the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing.

Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 62 (NMCB-62), known as the "Jackhammers," was commissioned in 1966 as part of the U.S. Navy Seabees. The battalion served with distinction during the Vietnam War, constructing bases, airfields, and vital infrastructure under combat conditions. After Vietnam, NMCB-62 deployed to various locations worldwide, including the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and the Middle East, supporting both peacetime and contingency operations. The battalion was decommissioned in 1994, leaving behind a legacy of engineering excellence and service to both the Navy and global communities.

The 1st Light Anti-Aircraft Missile Battalion (1st LAAM Bn) was a United States Marine Corps unit activated in June 1960, originally stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona. Tasked with providing air defense, the battalion was equipped with the HAWK (Homing All the Way Killer) surface-to-air missile system, making it one of the first USMC units to field this advanced technology. In 1965, elements of the 1st LAAM Bn deployed to Vietnam, where they provided vital air defense for Da Nang Air Base during the early years of American involvement in the conflict. The battalion continued to serve in various capacities until it was eventually deactivated as part of post-Vietnam drawdowns.

Marine Aircraft Group 26 (MAG-26) is a United States Marine Corps aviation unit established in January 1952. Initially activated at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, MAG-26 has provided assault support, primarily with rotary-wing and tiltrotor aircraft. The group has participated in numerous operations, including deployments to Lebanon, the Gulf War, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Today, MAG-26 is based at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina, and continues to play a vital role in supporting Marine Air-Ground Task Force missions worldwide.

The 1st Battalion, 24th Marines (1/24) is a reserve infantry battalion of the United States Marine Corps, headquartered in Detroit, Michigan. Activated in 1943, the battalion saw significant combat during World War II, notably participating in the Battle of Saipan, Tinian, and Iwo Jima as part of the 4th Marine Division. After the war, 1/24 was deactivated and reactivated several times, serving as a key reserve force during the Cold War and beyond. In the Global War on Terror, 1/24 deployed to Iraq in 2006-2007, conducting counterinsurgency operations in the Al Anbar Province.

The Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB), commonly known as the "Seabees," was officially established during World War II in 1942 to provide the U.S. Navy with a dedicated construction force capable of building advanced bases, airfields, and infrastructure in combat zones. NMCB units quickly gained a reputation for their motto, "We Build, We Fight," as they constructed vital facilities under hazardous conditions in the Pacific and European theaters. Throughout the Korean and Vietnam Wars, NMCBs continued to play a critical role, building roads, airstrips, and bases while often coming under enemy fire. In the decades since, NMCB units have been deployed worldwide for both military and humanitarian missions, maintaining their legacy as versatile engineers and builders within the U.S. Navy.

The 1st Battalion, 14th Marine Regiment (1/14th Marines) Headquarters, a reserve artillery unit of the United States Marine Corps, was originally activated during World War II, providing critical fire support in the Pacific Theater, including in the battles of Saipan, Tinian, and Okinawa. After the war, the battalion was deactivated and later reactivated as part of the Marine Corps Reserve, with its headquarters located in Alameda, California. Throughout the late 20th and early 21st centuries, 1/14th Marines HQ played a vital role in training, mobilizing, and supporting artillery operations during major conflicts, including Operations Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom. The battalion's headquarters has been responsible for command and control, administration, and logistical support, ensuring the combat readiness of its subordinate batteries.

The **2nd Light Antiaircraft Missile Battalion (2nd LAAM Bn)** was a United States Marine Corps air defense unit activated in the early 1960s. Stationed at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Cherry Point, North Carolina, the battalion was equipped with HAWK surface-to-air missile systems to provide low-to-medium altitude air defense for Marine Corps forces. Throughout its service, 2nd LAAM Bn participated in numerous training exercises and readiness operations, supporting both Atlantic Fleet and II Marine Expeditionary Force requirements. The battalion was eventually deactivated in the late 1980s as part of a broader restructuring of Marine Corps air defense assets.

Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic (FMFLant), headquartered in Norfolk, VA, was established in December 1946 to provide operational control and administrative support for U.S. Marine Corps forces assigned to the U.S. Atlantic Fleet. FMFLant played a pivotal role during the Cold War, ensuring rapid deployment capabilities for crises in Europe, the Middle East, and the Caribbean. The unit has participated in major operations, including the Cuban Missile Crisis, Operation Desert Storm, and humanitarian missions. Over the years, FMFLant has evolved to integrate modern expeditionary warfare concepts, remaining a crucial component of the nation's maritime power projection.