Mission
Provide all essential Aviation Ground Support requirements to a designated fixed wing component of an Aviation Combat Element and all supporting or attached elements of the Marine Air Control Group. Additionally, the Squadron has the implied mission to supplement airbase facilities and services at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, with support routed through MAG-12 for tasking.History
Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 began as Detachment "C" of Marine Wing Support Group 17, activated 16 April 1979. Formed from elements of Wing Engineer Squadron 17, Wing Transportation Squadron 17, and Headquarters Squadron 17. Having absorbed personnel and equipment from Marine Air Base Squadrons 12 and 15, Detachment "C" was re-designated Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 on 16 June 1986.The 1990s
In June 1991, Mount Pinatubo on the island of Luzon ( Republic of the Philippines) catastrophically erupted. In 1992, elements of Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 assisted in the final retrograde of personnel and equipment from Subic Bay Naval Base andGlobal War on Terror
Elements of the squadron continue to participate inOperation Tomodachi
After the 2011 tsunami hit Japan, the squadron provided support for the transport of supplies to victims of the tsunami. A small detachment was also sent to Sendai to assist in cleanup, as well as provide shower support for refugees.Exercise Forager Fury
MWSS-171 has conducted multiple exercises in the Pacific, showcasing its ability to support Marine Aircraft Groups in expeditionary environments and conditions.See also
* List of United States Marine Corps aviation support units * Organization of the United States Marine Corps * United States Marine Corps AviationExternal links