Came to Train, Stayed to Help: 3rd MAW Marines Assist in Typhoon Recovery Efforts

Marines and Sailors of Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron (MALS) 16 embarked aboard Wright-class Aviation Logistics Support Ship, SS Curtiss (T-AVB 4) partnered with the U.S. Coast Guard and 30th Naval Construction Regiment to support recovery efforts in the wake of Typhoon Mawar beginning May 25, 2023, while pier side at X-Ray Wharf, Guam.

Marines and Sailors aboard SS Curtiss deployed to the Philippines in mid-March as key participants in Immortal Warrior 2023. This was the first iteration of Immortal Warrior, which activated, exercised, and safely deployed the Military Sealift Command ship to plan and execute expeditionary intermediate-level aviation logistics, maintenance and supply for U.S., Ally and partner forces.

Immortal Warrior enhances Marine Corps capabilities as part of the Naval Expeditionary Force. It provides mobile afloat intermediate-level maintenance activity in support of aviation operations. This training opportunity was enhanced by compositing depot-level artisans aboard SS Curtiss to integrate skills for simulated aircraft battle damage repair from the forward deployed combat repair team. The teams experimented in F-35, H-1, F/A-18, and intermediate-level component repairs to experiment with salvage operations and expeditious repairs that would normally involve reach-back engineer support and approval. These skills enable the Marine Corps to support regional relationships by providing security, flexibility and humanitarian aid at a moment's notice.

The Marines also coordinated and participated in community relations events with the Palauan public throughout their time in the region to enhance relationships with strategic partners. The events included a clean-up effort at Meyuns Elementary School, playing a soccer game with the local students, and providing labor to support improvements to local tourist attractions.

“The Immortal Warrior team worked hard during the community relations event in Palau,” said Maj. William Dunst, Officer in Charge, MALS 16 (Forward). “This fantastic opportunity enabled aviation logistics Marines to engage with the local populace, donate equipment, improve elementary school grounds, and refurbish a popular hiking trail positively influencing strategic partnerships in the Pacific.”