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History of 11th CAG

The 11th Civil Affairs Group (11th CAG) is a United States Marine Corps Reserve unit specializing in civil-military operations. Activated in 1955 and based out of Southern California, the 11th CAG played crucial roles in supporting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, particularly during exercises and operations in the Pacific and Latin America. The unit contributed significantly during the Gulf War and in subsequent operations, working closely with local populations and allied forces to facilitate stability and reconstruction. Its legacy continues as part of the Marine Corps’ broader mission to bridge military objectives with civilian needs in complex operational environments.

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ABOUT 11th CAG

  • Formation and Name: The 11th Civil Affairs Group (11th CAG) was activated on 1 November 1955 as part of the United States Marine Corps Reserve, specializing in civil-military operations.
  • Vietnam War Service: The 11th CAG played a crucial role in the Vietnam War, supporting operations by working with local populations, government authorities, and the South Vietnamese military to foster stability.
  • Humanitarian Efforts: Members of the 11th CAG were involved in numerous humanitarian projects, including building schools, medical clinics, and providing disaster relief to Vietnamese civilians.
  • PACV Support: The 11th CAG supported the Patrol Air Cushion Vehicle (PACV) operations on Vietnam's rivers, aiding riverine warfare and local infrastructure projects.
  • Decorations: The unit and its members received multiple commendations for their service, including Navy Unit Commendations and Vietnamese government awards.
  • Disbandment: The 11th CAG was deactivated in 1974 following the drawdown of U.S. forces in Vietnam.
  • Legacy in Civil Affairs: The operational experience of the 11th CAG helped shape modern Civil Affairs doctrine in the Marine Corps, influencing how the US military approaches civil-military operations today.
  • Community Engagement: Beyond Vietnam, the 11th CAG participated in numerous training exercises and community support events within the United States, enhancing the Marine Corps' ties to local communities.
  • Diverse Skill Set: The unit was composed of Marines with diverse civilian backgrounds, such as law enforcement, engineering, medicine, and education, making them uniquely qualified for civil affairs tasks.
  • Personal Stories: Veterans of the 11th CAG have recounted stories of negotiating ceasefires, mediating disputes, and saving civilian lives, highlighting the unit’s critical, often unsung, role in combat and peacekeeping operations.

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