1942-1947
HqSq-25
VMJ/R-253
VMJ/R-152
SMS-25
VMJ/R-153
MAR&SSq-1
1950-1956
VMR-152
VMR-352
HqSq-25
VMR-253
MAG-25's "Flying Boxcar" insignia was designed by Walt Disney Studios.
The motto Securité en Nuages was intended as "Security in the Clouds," referencing the unit's preferred method of avoiding Japanese fighters.
Combat Air Transport Pioneers
Marine Aircraft Group 25 deployed to the South Pacific in September 1942 to support the desperate fight for Guadalcanal. It soon gained fame for its lifeline of aviation gasoline, weapons, and ammunition, delivered in unarmed and unarmored transports. MAG-25 shared in a Distinguished (Presidential) Unit Citation for Guadalcanal as part of the 1st Marine Division (Reinforced).
During the Guadalcanal Campaign the group became the nucleus of the SOPAC (South Pacific) Combat Air Transport Command, known as SCAT, a joint-service group that included units of the U.S. Army Air Forces. SCAT supported Allied forces throughout Operation Cartwheel, including the invasions of New Georgia, Vella Lavella, the Treasuries, and Bougainville, earning a Navy Unit Commendation.
MAG-25 went on to participate in the liberation of the Philippines. After Japan's surrender it served in China, helping to repatriate prisoners of the Japanese and supporting Marine ground forces operating in support of the Chinese Nationalist government.
Following a brief deactivation in 1947, MAG-25 was reactivated for service prior to the Korean War, serving throughout that conflict in support of United Nations forces. The unit was deactivated in 1956.