III MEF VIDEOS

A video highlighting the capabilities of the Marine Corps’ F-35B Lightning II aircraft utilized by Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242 with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, for the unit’s 82nd Birthday celebrated since July 1, 1943, in the Indo-Pacific, July, 1, 2025. The F-35B provides the MEU with short-take-off and vertical-landing capabilities, serving as a force multiplier, seamlessly sharing data with ground forces, naval vessels and other aircraft to provide a complete operational picture. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the USS America Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th Fleet area of operations, the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps video by Lance Cpl. Gerardo Mendez)

U.S. service members take part in the static displays and aerial demonstrations during Singapore Airshow 2020 at Changi Exhibition Center, Republic of Singapore, Feb. 15, 2020. U.S. military participated in the airshow, showing continued commitment to the Republic of Singapore. (U.S. Marine Corps video by Lance Cpl. Tyler Harmon)

Lt. Gen H. Stacy Clardy answers questions from the Japanese media following the III Marine Expeditionary Force change of command ceremony at Camp Courtney, Okinawa, Japan, May 31, 2019. Clardy received the command from Lt. Gen. Eric M. Smith, promising to lead the Marines and Sailors of III MEF to become even more prepared for the fight to come.

Marines from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 265, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, speak about Motivated Marine of the Quarter on August 23, 2018, on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan. (U.S. Marine Corps visual imagery by Pfc. Ryan Persinger)

For their bravery and professionalism, during the Vietnam War, the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation by former president Lyndon B. Johnson on October 9, 1968. CITATION: THE PRESIDENT of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the PRESIDENTIAL UNIT CITATION TO THE FIRST MARINE AIRCRAFT WING for service as set forth in the following CITATION: For extraordinary heroism and outstanding performance of duty in action against the North Vietnamese Army and Viet Gong forces in the Republic of Vietnam, from 11 May 1965 to 15 September 1967. Throughout this period, the First Marine Aircraft Wing, operating in I and II Corps tactical -zones of the Republic of Vietnam, North Vietnam, and adjacent waters, sought out and destroyed determined enemy forces and provided combat air support to ground forces of the Free World and the Republic of Vietnam. Participating in 195 major operations, and thousands of other attacks, the Wing continuously and aggressively carried the battle to the elusive enemy in bitterly contested actions. Operations such as DOUBLE EAGLE, HARVEST MOON, STARLITE, HASTINGS, PRAIRIE, UNION, HICKORY, COCHISE, AND SWIFT, reflect the high degree of superior airmanship, valor, devotion to duty and professionalism exhibited by personnel of the Wing. Although heavily committed to increased combat operations, the Wing developed and successfully employed new weapons, tactics, and procedures against the hard-core communist forces with gratifying results. Through the aggressive actions of the Wing, military and political victories were denied the insurgent communist forces, thereby providing a more stable atmosphere for the legally constituted Government of the Republic of Vietnam. The establishment, and logistical support of many separate airfields throughout the I Corps tactical zone and the vital air supply support provided the III Marine Amphibious Force and its allied ground forces, was a tribute to the resourcefulness and determination of the Wing. This dependable support was provided under the most trying and difficult combat conditions. Flying in fair weather and foul, against a fanatical, well-armed enemy, the uncommon courage and intrepidity of the Marine pilots and supporting Wing personnel, acting in a concerted team effort, contributed to another glorious chapter in an already illustrious history. The valor, devotion to duty, aggressive spirit, professionalism, and ingenuity of the entire First Marine Aircraft Wing in battle against a well trained, dangerous, and determined enemy, reflected the highest degree of heroism and exemplary performance, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. LYNDON B. JOHNSON Music by: AShamaluevMusic Footage by: Jeff Quitney (U.S. Marine Corps video by Cpl. Jessica Etheridge)

Lance Cpl. Johnathon B. Mata, an electro-optics ordnance repairer with Ordnance Maintenance Company, 3rd Maintenance Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 35, III Marine Expeditionary Force, speaks about his own Marine Corps experience in Okinawa, Japan, March 31, 2016. Mata, as an electro-optics ordnance repairer, has the responsibility to repair artillery, electrical optics and thermal sights to ensure equipment is always ready. Mata is a Mt. Pleasant, Mich., native.

Lance Cpl. Johnathon B. Mata, an electro-optics ordnance repairer with Ordnance Maintenance Company, 3rd Maintenance Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 35, III Marine Expeditionary Force, speaks about his own Marine Corps experience in Okinawa, Japan, March 31, 2016. Mata, as an electro-optics ordnance repairer, has the responsibility to repair artillery, electrical optics and thermal sights to ensure equipment is always ready. Mata is a Mt. Pleasant, Mich., native.

The Commandant and Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps visit bases across Okinawa to talk to Marines with III Marine Expeditionary Force Nov. 23. The senior leaders expressed how Marines at III Marine Expeditionary Force embrace being forward, faithful and focused at all times.

B-52 Stratofortress strategic bomber pilots take off during Exercise Valiant Shield 2014 Sept. 17 at Andersen Air Force Base.

U.S. Marines conduct Forward Arming and Refueling Point operations Nov. 21 at Guiuan Airfield, Republic of the Philippines, during Operation Damayan. The Marines supporting the Typhoon Haiyan relief effort are with III Marine Expeditionary Brigade in support of Joint Task Force 505. SME's are LCpl. Jose L. Valencia and Sgt. Phillip D. Rial. Both are bulk fuel specialists with Marine Wing Support Squadron 172, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Also available in high definition

Audio package of a humanitarian assistance survey team,...