MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. - More than 50 Marines from Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 14 left Cherry Point for Camp Bastion, Afghanistan, June 28.
The Marines will combine with other detachments from MALS-26, MALS-29 and MALS-31 to form their own unit, MALS-40, which will be more than 200 strong. The mission of the squadrons is to provide flying units with mid-level maintenance support, as well as keeping them supplied with necessary equipment, bombs and fuel.
Camp Bastion is the primary hub of Marine air support for Regional Command Southwest, where the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) is currently operating. The Marines are looking forward to getting in country.
“I’m very excited,” said Lance Cpl. Deanna Armstrong, an ordnance technician with MALS-40. “I’ve known about this for about six months, so I’m ready to get over there. I’m excited because I joined to go fight for my country and that’s what I’m going to do.”
The Marines have been training for several months in preparation for the deployment so they can better complete their mission.
“I expect nothing but the best,” said Capt. William Pomeroy, the assistant aircraft maintenance officer for the squadron. “They’re all prepared, they’ve all been trained up, and they’re looking forward to doing their job and coming home in seven months.”