U.S. Marine Corps

Marine Aircraft Group 39 (MAG-39) is a United States Marine Corps aviation unit established in 1978 and headquartered at Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, California. Originally formed to provide command and control for helicopter squadrons supporting I Marine Expeditionary Force, MAG-39 has played key operational roles in numerous exercises and deployments, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom. The group comprises several helicopter and tiltrotor squadrons, delivering assault support, close air support, and reconnaissance capabilities to Marine ground forces. Over the decades, MAG-39 has remained a vital component of Marine Corps aviation, adapting to evolving missions and technologies.

The 1st Marine Brigade, originally formed in 1912, has a distinguished history within the United States Marine Corps as an expeditionary unit. It saw early service in the Caribbean and Central America, participating in interventions such as those in Haiti and Nicaragua. During World War II, the brigade was reorganized and played a key role in the Pacific Theater, notably at the Battle of Guadalcanal. Over the decades, its designation and mission have evolved, but the unit’s legacy of rapid deployment and combat excellence remains central to its identity.

The 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines (3/3), nicknamed “Trinity,” is an infantry battalion of the United States Marine Corps based at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay (MCBH K-Bay), and is part of the 3rd Marine Division. Activated in 1942 during World War II, 3/3 participated in major Pacific campaigns, including Bougainville and Guam. The battalion saw significant action in Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan, earning a reputation for effectiveness in counterinsurgency and expeditionary operations. Today, 3/3 continues to serve as a forward-deployed, rapid-response force, maintaining readiness for missions throughout the Indo-Pacific region.

Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 14 (MALS-14) was activated on October 1, 1988, at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina. As part of Marine Aircraft Group 14, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, MALS-14 provides aviation logistics support, including maintenance, ordnance, and supply, to fixed-wing squadrons. The squadron has supported major operations such as Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Over the years, MALS-14 has played a vital role in ensuring the operational readiness of Marine aviation units through its expert logistical support.

Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 2 (VMAQ-2) was a United States Marine Corps aviation unit established in 1952 as VMC-2 and later redesignated VMAQ-2 in 1975. The squadron specialized in electronic warfare, flying the EA-6A Intruder and later the EA-6B Prowler to conduct electronic attack, jamming enemy radar, and gathering electronic intelligence. VMAQ-2 participated in major conflicts including the Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, and the Global War on Terror, providing critical support to Marine and joint forces. The squadron was deactivated in March 2019 as the Marine Corps retired the EA-6B, marking the end of an era in Marine electronic warfare.

The 3rd Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company (3rd ANGLICO) is a United States Marine Corps unit specializing in coordinating and controlling air, naval, and artillery fire support for joint, allied, and coalition forces. Originally activated in 1950 during the Korean War, the unit provided critical liaison capabilities between Marine and allied forces. After periods of deactivation and reactivation, 3rd ANGLICO has since participated in operations such as Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom, supporting both conventional and special operations missions. Today, 3rd ANGLICO continues to train and deploy teams worldwide, enhancing interoperability and fire support coordination with partner nations.

Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 40 (NMCB-40), known as the “Fighting Forty,” was a distinguished unit of the United States Navy Seabees. Commissioned in 1942 during World War II, NMCB-40 played pivotal roles in constructing bases, airfields, and infrastructure across the Pacific Theater. The battalion earned accolades for its service in Vietnam, supporting combat operations with vital construction and engineering projects. Over its history, NMCB-40 deployed globally, exemplifying the Seabee motto, “We Build, We Fight,” until its decommissioning in 2012.

Marine Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron 3 (VMFP-3) was a United States Marine Corps photo-reconnaissance squadron established on July 1, 1975. Based at Marine Corps Air Station El Toro, California, VMFP-3 operated the RF-4B Phantom II aircraft, providing tactical aerial photographic reconnaissance to support Marine Air-Ground Task Force operations. The squadron played a key role in training and readiness exercises throughout the late Cold War era, frequently deploying to the Western Pacific and participating in joint-service operations. VMFP-3 was deactivated on July 1, 1990, as advancements in reconnaissance technology and shifting defense priorities rendered its mission and aircraft obsolete.

Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252 (VMGR-252), known as the "Otis," is a United States Marine Corps squadron established in 1928, making it the oldest continually active squadron in the Marine Corps. Originally designated as Marine Utility Squadron 252, the unit transitioned through various roles and aircraft, becoming a dedicated aerial refueling squadron. VMGR-252 has operated the KC-130 Hercules, providing critical aerial refueling and transport support in conflicts ranging from World War II to operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, VMGR-252 remains a vital component of Marine Corps aviation logistics and mobility.

The 4th Battalion, 10th Marines (4/10), was an artillery battalion of the United States Marine Corps, activated during World War II. Formed in 1941, 4/10th Marines provided vital fire support for the 2nd Marine Division in key Pacific campaigns, including the battles of Tarawa, Saipan, Tinian, and Okinawa. The battalion’s accurate and sustained artillery fire played a crucial role in the success of amphibious assaults against heavily fortified Japanese positions. After the war, 4/10th Marines was deactivated in 1945, but its legacy endures as part of the proud history of Marine Corps artillery.

The 7th Motor Transport Battalion was activated during World War II to provide essential logistical and transportation support to frontline combat units. Throughout its history, the battalion played a crucial role in major conflicts, including the Korean and Vietnam Wars, ensuring the rapid movement of troops, equipment, and supplies. The unit was known for its adaptability, operating convoys through challenging terrain and under hostile conditions. Its legacy is marked by dedication to mission success and the vital support it provided to Marine Corps operations worldwide.

Headquarters & Support Battalion, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, was established to provide essential administrative, logistical, and operational support to the installation and its tenant commands. Over the years, the battalion has played a crucial role in ensuring the readiness and welfare of thousands of Marines, sailors, and their families stationed at Camp Lejeune. Tasked with a wide array of responsibilities, including base security, personnel administration, and community services, the unit has continually adapted to meet the evolving needs of the Marine Corps. Its enduring mission supports both daily base operations and the broader objectives of the Marine Corps on the East Coast.

Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462 (HMH-462), known as the "Heavy Haulers," was originally activated during World War II in April 1944 as Marine Fighting Squadron 462. The unit was re-designated and reactivated several times, ultimately becoming HMH-462 and flying heavy-lift helicopters such as the CH-53 series. HMH-462 has participated in numerous operations, including the Vietnam War, Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, and humanitarian assistance missions. Based at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, the squadron continues to provide assault support and heavy-lift capabilities for the United States Marine Corps.

Marine Aircraft Group 36 (MAG-36) is a United States Marine Corps aviation unit established during the Vietnam War. Activated on June 1, 1952, MAG-36 played a crucial role in providing combat assault support, primarily with helicopter squadrons, during major operations in Vietnam, including at Marble Mountain Air Facility. After the war, the unit relocated to Okinawa, Japan, where it continues to support III Marine Expeditionary Force with expeditionary airlift, assault support, and humanitarian missions throughout the Asia-Pacific region. Today, MAG-36 remains a vital component of U.S. Marine Corps aviation, renowned for its operational readiness and versatility.

The United States Marine Corps (USMC) was established on November 10, 1775, by the Second Continental Congress, originally serving as landing forces for the U.S. Navy. Marines played vital roles in major American conflicts, including the Revolutionary War, World Wars I and II, Korea, Vietnam, and more recent operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Renowned for their expeditionary and amphibious warfare capabilities, the Marines are often first to fight in crises around the world. Throughout history, the Marine Corps has built a reputation for toughness, adaptability, and a strong esprit de corps, earning the motto "Semper Fidelis"—Always Faithful.

The 1st Supply Battalion is a key logistics unit within the United States Marine Corps, providing critical supply support to Marine forces. Activated in 1950, the battalion played a vital role during the Korean War, ensuring front-line troops received essential equipment, ammunition, and provisions. Over the decades, the 1st Supply Battalion has supported operations in Vietnam, the Gulf War, Iraq, and Afghanistan, adapting to evolving logistical challenges. The unit continues to maintain readiness and efficiency, supporting Marine Air-Ground Task Force operations worldwide.

The 31st Marine Amphibious Unit (31st MAU), originally activated in March 1967, is a forward-deployed, rapid-response Marine Air-Ground Task Force of the United States Marine Corps. The unit played a pivotal role during the Vietnam War, conducting amphibious operations and contingency missions throughout the Western Pacific. In 1988, the 31st MAU was redesignated as the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), reflecting its enhanced capabilities and evolving mission set. Today, the 31st MEU remains the only continuously forward-deployed MEU, supporting U.S. interests and humanitarian assistance operations in the Indo-Pacific region.

The 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines (3/5), known as "Darkhorse," was activated in 1917 and served with distinction in World War I, participating in the legendary Battle of Belleau Wood. During World War II, 3/5 fought in major Pacific campaigns, including Guadalcanal, Peleliu, and Okinawa. The battalion played critical roles in the Korean and Vietnam Wars, earning numerous unit citations for valor and effectiveness. In recent years, 3/5 deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, notably enduring heavy combat in Sangin, Helmand Province, where it upheld its reputation for courage and resilience.

Headquarters and Maintenance Squadron 14 (H&MS-14) was a unit of the United States Marine Corps, initially activated to provide vital aviation logistics and intermediate maintenance support for Marine Aircraft Group 14 (MAG-14) at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina. Throughout its service, H&MS-14 was responsible for supporting a variety of fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft, ensuring operational readiness and effectiveness for MAG-14 squadrons. The unit played a crucial role during the Cold War era, participating in numerous training exercises and deployments to enhance Marine Corps aviation capabilities. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, as part of a Corps-wide reorganization, H&MS-14 was redesignated as Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 14 (MALS-14), continuing its legacy of logistical excellence under a new structure.

Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 263 (HMM-263), also known as the "Thunder Chickens," was activated on 1 June 1958. The squadron has a distinguished history, participating in major operations including the Cuban Missile Crisis, the Vietnam War, and Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. HMM-263 also played significant roles in humanitarian missions and peacekeeping operations, such as Operation Provide Comfort in Northern Iraq and disaster relief in Haiti. The unit transitioned to the MV-22 Osprey in 2006, redesignating as VMM-263, and continues to serve as a vital part of Marine Corps aviation.

The Marine Corps Brig, also known as the military correctional facility, was established to maintain discipline and order within the United States Marine Corps. Initially, brigs were simple holding areas aboard ships or at Marine bases, evolving over time into secure, professionally managed detention centers. Throughout its history, the Marine Corps Brig has played a crucial role in housing service members awaiting trial, serving sentences, or undergoing rehabilitation. The unit’s mission today emphasizes correction, rehabilitation, and the safe custody of military prisoners, ensuring the integrity and effectiveness of Marine Corps operations.

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115 (VMFA-115), known as the “Silver Eagles,” was activated in July 1943 as VMF-115 and saw combat in the Pacific during World War II, notably participating in operations on Okinawa. The squadron later served in the Korean War, flying F9F Panthers in support of United Nations forces. Transitioning to the F-4 Phantom II, VMFA-115 saw extensive action during the Vietnam War, conducting close air support and interdiction missions. Today, based at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina, VMFA-115 operates the F/A-18 Hornet and continues to provide combat-ready fighter-attack capabilities for the United States Marine Corps.

The 1st 8 Inch Howitzer Battery, part of the 1st Field Artillery Group (1st FAG), was a key artillery unit in the United States Marine Corps. Established to provide heavy fire support, the battery was equipped with the M115 8-inch howitzer, capable of delivering powerful, long-range artillery fire. During the Vietnam War, the 1st 8 Inch How Btry played a critical role in supporting Marine and allied ground operations, often tasked with counter-battery fire and the destruction of fortified enemy positions. Their precision and firepower significantly contributed to the effectiveness of Marine operations throughout their deployment.

The 1st Battalion, 10th Marines (1/10) was activated on November 1, 1940, at San Diego, California, as part of the 2nd Marine Division. The battalion served with distinction during World War II, participating in major campaigns including Guadalcanal, Tarawa, Saipan, Tinian, and Okinawa, providing critical artillery support. In the decades since, 1/10 has deployed in support of numerous operations, including the Gulf War, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Today, the battalion continues to serve as a vital artillery unit, delivering fire support for II Marine Expeditionary Force missions worldwide.