Marine Corps Reserve Squadron Repairs Key Airfield at Twentynine Palms for ITX 4-24

TWENTYNINE PALMS, CALIFORNIA, US – From June 10-26, 2024, the Marine Wing Support Squadron 471 (MWSS 471) from the 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Forces Reserve, undertook significant repairs at the Marine Corps’ largest expeditionary landing airfield, the Strategic Expeditionary Landing Field (SELF), at Marine Corps Air-Ground Combat Center. These efforts supported Integrated Training Exercise (ITX) 4-24 and future exercises for the active component.

Vital Role of the SELF

The SELF is the sole airfield at the Air-Ground Combat Center and plays a crucial role in Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) operations, enabling combined arms training by incorporating air operations into ground maneuvers.

“The SELF serves as the Marine Corps’ and really the Department of Defense’s training venue for expeditionary flight operations,” said Lt. Col. Nathaniel Griggs, the deputy director for MAGTFTC. “It allows the Marine Corps during each ITX to build an operable MAGTF in a training environment that can support all model series aircraft and joint operations.”

MWSS 471’s Mission

MWSS 471’s mission involved repairing 6,400 square feet of the SELF, which had been deteriorated by consistent use and extreme weather conditions, making parts of the landing field unusable.

Nicknamed the “Red Wolves,” the MWSS 471 Marines removed old, damaged matting on the SELF’s transient ramp and taxiway, leveled the ground, and replaced the area with new AM-2 matting. AM-2 matting is known for its versatility and quick installation, significantly reducing the time needed to transition from construction to aviation operations.

“The airstrip had endured significant stress from numerous aircraft operations and also had severe water erosion,” explained Lance Cpl. Samuel Hogge, a heavy equipment operator with MWSS 471. “Our goal was to replace sections of the matting to ensure safe and efficient landings.”

Overcoming Challenges

The project was physically demanding, involving heavy lifting and laborious work in temperatures nearing 110 degrees. The AM-2 matting consisted of 12-foot panels weighing 144 pounds and six-foot panels weighing 77 pounds. Despite the harsh conditions, the Marines remained focused on their mission.

“You start with a project like this, and you don’t really know what it’s going to look like in the end,” said Cpl. Austin Rowley, an expeditionary airfield specialist with MWSS 471. “Each day, you see the progress you’re making. It’s rewarding, especially for the guys that aren’t around all the time.”

Positive Impact

The successful completion of the repairs not only benefited the Reserve Marines but also ensured the readiness of active-duty units for upcoming exercises.

“They [MWSS 471] arrived here with a smile on their face and eager to work. With a positive attitude, they tackled the task head-on and completed the repairs in about two weeks,” Griggs said. The Reserve support squadron’s contribution was crucial, providing much-needed manpower and bringing new perspectives from their civilian experiences.

Enhanced Training and Readiness

MWSS 471’s rapid repairs of the SELF ensured that the airfield would be fully functional for ITX 5-24 and beyond. The experience also provided valuable training for the Reserve Marines, preparing them for potential deployments and improving their operational proficiency.

“I have younger Marines who haven’t worked with equipment before. It’s a collaborative effort where everyone learns and grows together,” Rowley said. “This also saves the active-duty Marines time and allows the Reserve Marines to gain proficiency in our jobs. We are eager to participate and apply the skills we were trained for.”

Conclusion

The restoration of the SELF by MWSS 471 underscores their commitment to mission accomplishment and significantly enhances Marine Corps readiness. “The completion of the SELF repair project significantly enhances Marine Corps readiness,” emphasized Smedley. “By restoring functionality, we ensure our Marines are well-prepared for deployment scenarios and can operate effectively during ITX.”

For more information on Marine Wing Support Squadron 471 and their mission, please visit the official Marine Corps website.