Description This brass coin salutes the 4th Marine Aircraft Wing of the U.S.M.C. Struck in a brass alloy, this coin has an attractive use of enamel, making a striking impression. The reverse contains the logo of the Marines set in a semitransparent red enamel that allows the look of radiance. The 4th Marine Base Defense Aircraft Wing was commissioned Aug. 22, 1942, at Ewa, Hawaii. The Wing’s three squadrons were located at Midway, Ewa and Samoa with the headquarters at Ewa. In the fall of 1944, the 4th Marine Base Defense Aircraft Wing became the 4th Marine Aircraft Wing (4th MAW). As the war progressed across the Pacific, 4th MAW pilots refined fighter bombing and low-altitude flying techniques. The Wing combined with the proven ability of Marine infantrymen to form an effective and devastating team and paved the way for today’s air/ground team concept. When the Korean War broke out, a force of 6,035 men who trained at 25 Marine Air Detachments from coast to coast, the Marine Air Reserve was prepared for rapid mobilization to Korea. As turmoil developed in the Dominican Republic and U.S. involvement in Southeast Asia increased during the mid-sixties, the necessity of having a ready force in reserve became more apparent. Emphasis was shifted to the 4th MAW and in July 1966, a reorganization was under taken to ensure that all units were prepared to execute the same missions and tasks as assigned in the regular Fleet Marine Force. During Operations Desert Shield/Storm, numerous units were mobilized and deployed to the Gulf Region. These units provided air support which contributed to the victory of allied forces. Each coin measures 1 3/4 inch (44mm) in diameter. ™ United States Marine Corps. Officially Licensed Product of the United States Marine Corps (www.marines.com and 1.800.marines) This is a surplus NWTMint item. Packaging may vary.
