Intro
Discover the origins of Marine aviation with the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) First Aircraft Wing. Learn about the pioneering days of military aviation, the Wings creation in 1912, and its evolution into a powerful force. Explore the history of Marine Corps aviation, from early aircraft to modern-day operations, and the role of the First Aircraft Wing in shaping USMC air power.
The United States Marine Corps (USMC) has a rich history of innovation and adaptation, and one of the most significant milestones in its development was the establishment of its first aircraft wing. The birth of Marine aviation marked a new era in the Corps' ability to project power and support ground operations, and it paved the way for the modern Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) system.
The USMC's interest in aviation dates back to 1909, when Lt. Theodore G. Ellyson, a naval officer, became the first Marine to earn his wings. However, it wasn't until 1912 that the Marine Corps officially established its aviation program, with the creation of the Marine Corps Aviation Section. This small unit, consisting of just a handful of officers and enlisted men, was tasked with exploring the potential of aircraft in support of Marine operations.
Over the next several years, the Marine Corps Aviation Section experimented with various types of aircraft, including seaplanes, biplanes, and even a few early helicopters. These early aircraft were used primarily for reconnaissance and messaging, but they also played a key role in several Marine Corps operations, including the 1914 expedition to Vera Cruz, Mexico.
The Birth of the First Aircraft Wing
In 1920, the Marine Corps Aviation Section was reorganized into the First Aircraft Wing, which was established at Quantico, Virginia. This new unit was commanded by Maj. Thomas C. Turner, who would later become a prominent figure in the development of Marine Corps aviation.
The First Aircraft Wing was initially composed of just three squadrons: the 1st Marine Aviation Squadron, the 2nd Marine Aviation Squadron, and the 3rd Marine Aviation Squadron. These squadrons were equipped with a variety of aircraft, including the Curtiss JN-4 "Jenny" biplane and the Boeing FB-1 fighter.
The establishment of the First Aircraft Wing marked a significant milestone in the development of Marine Corps aviation. For the first time, the Marine Corps had a dedicated aviation unit that could provide air support for ground operations. This new capability would prove to be a game-changer in future conflicts, allowing the Marine Corps to project power and respond quickly to emerging threats.
Early Operations and Expansion
Over the next several years, the First Aircraft Wing played a key role in several Marine Corps operations, including the 1925 expedition to China and the 1927 expedition to Nicaragua. These early operations demonstrated the value of air power in support of ground operations and paved the way for the expansion of Marine Corps aviation.
In 1927, the First Aircraft Wing was reorganized into the 1st Marine Aircraft Group (MAG), which was composed of several squadrons, including the 1st Marine Aviation Squadron, the 2nd Marine Aviation Squadron, and the 3rd Marine Aviation Squadron. This new unit was tasked with providing air support for the 1st Marine Brigade, which was stationed in China.
The 1st Marine Aircraft Group continued to grow and expand over the next several years, with the addition of new squadrons and aircraft. In 1935, the group was reorganized into the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, which was composed of several groups, including the 1st Marine Aircraft Group and the 2nd Marine Aircraft Group.
World War II and the Pacific Theater
The 1st Marine Aircraft Wing played a key role in World War II, particularly in the Pacific Theater. The wing was tasked with providing air support for the 1st Marine Division, which was stationed in Guadalcanal, and later for the 5th Marine Division, which was stationed in Iwo Jima.
The 1st Marine Aircraft Wing was equipped with a variety of aircraft, including the Grumman F4F Wildcat fighter and the Douglas SBD Dauntless dive bomber. These aircraft were used to provide air support for ground operations, as well as to conduct reconnaissance and bombing missions.
The 1st Marine Aircraft Wing continued to grow and expand throughout the war, with the addition of new squadrons and aircraft. In 1944, the wing was reorganized into the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific, which was composed of several groups, including the 1st Marine Aircraft Group and the 2nd Marine Aircraft Group.
Korean War and the Modern Era
The 1st Marine Aircraft Wing continued to play a key role in Marine Corps operations throughout the Korean War and the modern era. The wing was tasked with providing air support for ground operations, as well as conducting reconnaissance and bombing missions.
In the 1950s and 1960s, the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing was equipped with a variety of aircraft, including the North American FJ-4 Fury fighter and the Douglas A-4 Skyhawk attack aircraft. These aircraft were used to provide air support for ground operations, as well as to conduct reconnaissance and bombing missions.
Today, the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing is one of the largest and most advanced aircraft wings in the Marine Corps. The wing is composed of several groups, including the 1st Marine Aircraft Group and the 2nd Marine Aircraft Group, and is equipped with a variety of aircraft, including the F/A-18 Hornet fighter and the MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor.
Conclusion
The establishment of the First Aircraft Wing in 1920 marked a significant milestone in the development of Marine Corps aviation. Over the years, the wing has played a key role in several Marine Corps operations, including World War II and the Korean War. Today, the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing is one of the largest and most advanced aircraft wings in the Marine Corps, and continues to play a vital role in supporting ground operations and projecting power.
USMC First Aircraft Wing Image Gallery
What was the first aircraft wing established by the USMC?
+The first aircraft wing established by the USMC was the First Aircraft Wing, which was established in 1920 at Quantico, Virginia.
What was the primary mission of the First Aircraft Wing?
+The primary mission of the First Aircraft Wing was to provide air support for ground operations, as well as to conduct reconnaissance and bombing missions.
What aircraft were used by the First Aircraft Wing during World War II?
+The First Aircraft Wing used a variety of aircraft during World War II, including the Grumman F4F Wildcat fighter and the Douglas SBD Dauntless dive bomber.