Bernard (Butch) Lafoon Jr.

Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 26, known as MALS-26, operates under Marine Aircraft Group 26 (MAG-26) at Marine Corps Air Facility (MCAF) New River near Jacksonville, North Carolina. Originally activated as Headquarters and Maintenance Squadron 26 (H&MS-26) in 1952, the unit was redesignated as MALS-26 in 1988 to better reflect its aviation logistics and support mission. MALS-26 provides vital intermediate-level aviation maintenance, ordnance, and supply support to the squadrons of MAG-26, which primarily operate rotary-wing aircraft. The squadron has supported numerous operations and exercises, both stateside and overseas, ensuring the readiness and effectiveness of Marine Corps aviation assets.