May 22, 2022 marks 110 years of Marine Corps Aviation.
On May 22, 1912, 1st Lt. Alfred A. Cunningham reported to Naval Aviation Camp at Annapolis, Maryland, “for aviation-related duties,” sparking the birth of Marine Corps Aviation.
Marine Corps aviation has participated in every major US conflict since.
Deputy Commander Aviation Lt. Gen. Mark R. Wise commemorated the historic occasion with a letter highlighting the men and women who have contributed to the history of Marine Corps aviation.
“Throughout our history, maritime aviation has pushed the boundaries in the skies to provide the lethality, mobility and durability capabilities required for our service.” Lieutenant General Mark R. Wise, Deputy Commander Aviation
“Aviation enablers remain the lifeline of our community – there is no maritime aviation without our aircrew, maintainers, air traffic controllers, avionics and ammunition technicians, air force logisticians. aviation and our aerodrome services,” Wise wrote.
Marine Corps aviation has undergone significant change since its birth in 1922, but one thing has remained constant – how integral aviation is to the Marine Air Ground Task Force.
In line with Force Design 2030, Marine Corps aviation prioritizes readiness, increased lethality, and reinforces the importance of flying from the sea.
Recently, the Department of Aviation released the Marine Corps Aviation Plan 2022, which highlights modernization efforts and aligns with the commander’s vision of a future force.