MAG 16; more than half a century of excellance
Corps' first all helicopter MAG turns 51
USMC News
Story Identification Number: 200336172349
Story by Sgt. M. P. Shelato
Marine Corps Air Station Miramar(March 7, 2003) -- Col. Harold J. Michener accepted the appointment as commanding officer of the first Marine Corps all helicopter Marine Aircraft Group 16 when it was commissioned March 1, 1952. Since then, MAG 16 has participated in most of the conflicts the United States has taken part in, including the Vietnam War, Desert Storm/ Desert Shield, Somalia and Operation Enduring Freedom.
Even now, MAG 16 units are spread all over the world in support of OEF. As in the past, these Marines are taking care of business and getting the job done.
?The Group got to the (U. S. Central Command Area of Responsibility) safely, and are handling operations well,? said Capt. Jeff D. Sadowitz, current operations officer and group historian, MAG-16.
Safety records have improved in the last 50 years, and the Marines of MAG 16 constantly strive to make their jobs even safer.
?We?re continuing to train here in the event we may get called to go forward,? Sadowitz explained.
In regards to what the future may hold for MAG 16, only few can guess. New equipment may be in store, such as the MV-22 Osprey. The Osprey has been proposed to replace the Marine Corps? aging fleet of CH-46E and CH-53D medium lift helicopters.
?The arrival of the Osprey is greatly anticipated, but we?re not holding our breath,? Sadowitz protested. ?We will continue to deploy and have a presence around the world, that?s our mission.?
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