Consolidated Public Affairs Office

CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa (January 11, 2008) -- The 1st Marine Aircraft Wing spent much of 2007 conducting operations across the spectrum of conflict, providing responsive and effective Marine aviation capabilities to III Marine Expeditionary Force.

Subordinate units within the Wing participated in a variety of joint-service and coalition exercises and theater security initiatives.

"These exercises were focused on supporting efforts in the Global War on Terrorism," said Maj. Gen. Robert E. Schmidle Jr., who assumed command of 1st MAW in June. "They also served to develop the capabilities of coalition and partner nations."

Despite a high operational tempo, 1st MAW remained focused on its major theater warfighting capabilities. 1st MAW units were heavily involved in Marine air ground task force training and joint-service exercises throughout the area of responsibility.

This mix of unilateral, joint, and combined training exercises ensured the Wing maintained warfighting readiness and prepared its major subordinate elements to execute operational and contingency plans.

The Wing also provided U.S. Central Command a continuous presence of one Marine Heavy Helicopter squadron. During the past year HMH-363 and HMH-362 completed Iraq rotations.

Additionally, Marine Medium Helicopter squadron 262 and 1st Stinger Battery returned in September after completing seven-month deployments in Iraq.

1st MAW also contributed other units to the Operation Iraqi Freedom mission, deploying a Motor Transport platoon and an Explosive Ordnance Team.

Finally, the Wing continued to provide numerous individual augments in support of Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom.

The efforts of 1st MAW Marines and sailors were recognized by the Marine Corps Aviation Association. HMH-363 received the Commandant's Aviation Trophy, while HMM-262 received the Edward C. Dyer Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron of the Year Award. Meanwhile, 1st Stinger Battery received the Edward S. Fris Outstanding Marine Command and Control Squadron of the Year Award.

The Wing also bid farewell to Marine Air Control Group 18's 1st Stinger Battery in September. The unit, established in 1982, was deactivated as part of a Corps-wide initiative to transform and restructure air defense units. Prior to its deactivation, the battery served as the only ground-based, air defense unit within III MEF.

Schmidle said he is confident that as the Marines and sailors of 1st MAW look forward to 2008, they will continue their outstanding dedication to duty and selfless service that led to mission success in 2007.

http://www.okinawa.usmc.mil/Public%20Affairs%20Info/Archive%20News%20Pages/2008/080111-maw.html