Timothy Schmale

Marine Air Traffic Control Squadron 18 (MATCS-18) is a United States Marine Corps aviation command and control unit, originally activated during the Vietnam War era. The squadron is part of Marine Air Control Group 18, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, and is based at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. MATCS-18 provides air traffic control and aviation command support for Marine aviation operations, both in garrison and during deployed expeditionary missions throughout the Indo-Pacific region. The unit has participated in numerous joint exercises and humanitarian assistance operations, showcasing its capability to rapidly establish and maintain airfield operations in support of Marine Air-Ground Task Force objectives.

1ST MARINE AIR WING

U.S. Marine Corps

The 1st Marine Air Wing is a unit of the United States Marine Corps responsible for conducting aviation operations in support of Marine Corps ground forces. It is the largest and oldest aircraft wing in the Marine Corps, with a history dating back to World War II. The 1st Marine Air Wing is based at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma in Okinawa, Japan. Its mission includes providing close air support, transportation of troops and supplies, and aerial reconnaissance.