Intro
Discover the II Marine Expeditionary Force, an elite fighting unit renowned for its combat prowess and versatility. As a major component of the US Marine Corps, II MEF has played a pivotal role in various military operations worldwide, showcasing its adaptability and strength. Learn about its history, structure, and notable deployments.
The II Marine Expeditionary Force (II MEF) is one of the most elite fighting units in the world, comprising approximately 60,000 Marines and sailors. Based at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, II MEF is a major component of the United States Marine Corps and plays a critical role in maintaining global stability and security.
As a Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF), II MEF is designed to be a self-contained, expeditionary force capable of rapid deployment to any region of the world. Its primary mission is to provide a ready and responsive force that can operate in a variety of environments, from humanitarian assistance and disaster response to full-scale combat operations.
History of II MEF
The II Marine Expeditionary Force has a rich and storied history dating back to 1962, when it was activated as II Marine Amphibious Force (II MAF). Over the years, the unit has undergone several transformations, including a redesignation as II MEF in 1987. Throughout its history, II MEF has participated in numerous operations, including the Cuban Missile Crisis, the Gulf War, and the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Organization and Structure
II MEF is organized into several major components, including:
- II Marine Expeditionary Brigade (II MEB): The II MEB is the ground combat element of II MEF, consisting of infantry, artillery, and engineer units.
- 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (2nd MAW): The 2nd MAW provides air support to II MEF, including fighter, attack, and transport aircraft.
- 2nd Marine Logistics Group (2nd MLG): The 2nd MLG provides logistics and supply support to II MEF, including maintenance, transportation, and medical services.
- II Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group (II MHG): The II MHG provides command and control functions for II MEF, including communications, intelligence, and operations planning.
Capabilities and Training
II MEF is trained to operate in a variety of environments, from urban warfare to jungle and desert operations. Its units are equipped with a range of specialized gear, including advanced communications systems, precision-guided munitions, and armored vehicles.
Deployments and Operations
II MEF has participated in numerous deployments and operations throughout its history, including:
- Operation Desert Storm: II MEF played a key role in the Gulf War, conducting amphibious landings and providing ground combat support.
- Operation Iraqi Freedom: II MEF participated in the invasion of Iraq in 2003, conducting combat operations in the western region of the country.
- Operation Enduring Freedom: II MEF has deployed to Afghanistan multiple times, providing security and training support to the Afghan National Army.
- Humanitarian Assistance: II MEF has participated in numerous humanitarian assistance operations, including disaster response efforts in Haiti and the Philippines.
Notable Units within II MEF
Several units within II MEF are particularly notable for their bravery and sacrifice:
- 2nd Battalion, 8th Marines (2/8): This infantry battalion has received numerous awards for its service in Iraq and Afghanistan.
- 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (2nd MAW): The 2nd MAW has played a key role in several major operations, including the Gulf War and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
- 2nd Marine Logistics Group (2nd MLG): The 2nd MLG has provided critical logistics support to II MEF during numerous deployments.
Community Involvement
II MEF is deeply involved in the local community, participating in numerous outreach and support programs. These include:
- Toys for Tots: II MEF has participated in the Toys for Tots program for many years, collecting and distributing toys to disadvantaged children.
- Adopt-a-School: II MEF has adopted several local schools, providing mentorship and support to students.
- Disaster Response: II MEF has provided critical support during disaster response efforts, including Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Florence.
Conclusion
The II Marine Expeditionary Force is an elite fighting unit with a rich history and a reputation for bravery and sacrifice. Its units are trained to operate in a variety of environments, and it has participated in numerous deployments and operations throughout its history. As a major component of the United States Marine Corps, II MEF plays a critical role in maintaining global stability and security.
We invite you to share your thoughts and comments about the II Marine Expeditionary Force. Have you or a family member served in II MEF? Share your experiences and stories with us.
Gallery of II MEF Images:
II MEF Image Gallery
FAQs:
What is the mission of II MEF?
+The mission of II MEF is to provide a ready and responsive force that can operate in a variety of environments, from humanitarian assistance and disaster response to full-scale combat operations.
What units make up II MEF?
+II MEF is composed of several major units, including II Marine Expeditionary Brigade (II MEB), 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (2nd MAW), 2nd Marine Logistics Group (2nd MLG), and II Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group (II MHG).
What is the history of II MEF?
+II MEF was activated in 1962 as II Marine Amphibious Force (II MAF) and has undergone several transformations over the years, including a redesignation as II MEF in 1987.