About this Unit
Marine Aircraft Group 15 (MAG-15) was a United States Marine Corps aviation unit established during World War II. Initially commissioned in 1942, MAG-15 played a significant role in the Pacific Theater, providing air support and engaging in combat operations throughout the war. After the conflict, the unit was stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, during the Korean War and the early years of the Cold War, supporting regional stability and American interests in the Asia-Pacific. MAG-15 continued to evolve with changing military needs before it was ultimately deactivated in the 1970s, leaving a legacy of service and operational excellence in Marine Corps aviation history.
Historical Facts
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Formation in World War II: Marine Aircraft Group 15 (MAG-15) was originally commissioned on March 1, 1942, at Camp Kearny, San Diego, California, playing a key role in providing air support during World War II.
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Pacific Theater Operations: During WWII, MAG-15 operated in the Pacific, including the Solomon Islands, providing vital air transport, reconnaissance, and support missions for combat operations.
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Korean War Deployments: MAG-15 was deployed to support United Nations forces during the Korean War, operating from various bases in Japan and Korea.
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Vietnam War Role: The unit played a significant part in the Vietnam War, providing air transport and logistical support to Marine and allied forces throughout Southeast Asia.
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Arrival at Iwakuni: MAG-15 was stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, for several years during the post-Korean War era, serving as a key element of USMC aviation presence in the Western Pacific.
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Cold War Operations: During the Cold War, MAG-15 conducted numerous training exercises and readiness operations in Japan and throughout the region to deter potential adversaries.
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Diverse Aircraft: Throughout its service, MAG-15 operated a wide variety of aircraft, including fighters, attack planes, and transport aircraft, adapting to evolving mission requirements.
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Support to Humanitarian Missions: While based at Iwakuni, MAG-15 participated in several humanitarian and disaster relief missions across the Asia-Pacific, demonstrating the unit’s versatility.
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Deactivation: MAG-15 was officially deactivated on October 31, 1988, at MCAS Iwakuni, marking the end of over 46 years of distinguished service.
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Legacy: The legacy of MAG-15 continues to influence Marine Corps aviation in the Pacific, with its former squadrons and personnel having contributed to multiple generations of Marine aviation excellence.
