Introduction to MCAS New River
MCAS New River, also known as Marine Corps Air Station New River, is a United States Marine Corps base located in Jacksonville, North Carolina. The base is situated near the city of Jacksonville and is part of the larger Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune complex. MCAS New River is home to several Marine Corps aviation units, including the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing and the Marine Aircraft Group 26. The base plays a critical role in supporting the Marine Corps’ aviation operations, providing training and maintenance facilities for various aircraft types.
History of MCAS New River
MCAS New River was established in 1943, during World War II, as a training base for Marine Corps aviators. The base was initially known as Tower City Naval Air Station and was later renamed Marine Corps Air Station New River in 1955. Over the years, the base has undergone several expansions and modernizations, with new facilities and infrastructure added to support the growing needs of the Marine Corps’ aviation operations. Today, MCAS New River is one of the busiest military airbases in the United States, with thousands of personnel and aircraft operating from the base.
Units and Aircraft
MCAS New River is home to several Marine Corps aviation units, including:
- 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing: The wing is the largest aviation unit in the Marine Corps and is responsible for providing air support to ground units.
- Marine Aircraft Group 26: The group is a major aviation unit that provides support to the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing and operates several types of aircraft, including the CH-53E Super Stallion and the UH-1Y Venom.
- Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 26: The squadron provides maintenance and logistics support to the aircraft operating from MCAS New River.
- CH-53E Super Stallion: A heavy-lift helicopter used for transport and cargo operations.
- UH-1Y Venom: A utility helicopter used for transport and medical evacuation operations.
- AH-1Z Viper: An attack helicopter used for close air support and reconnaissance operations.
Facilities and Infrastructure
MCAS New River has a range of facilities and infrastructure to support its aviation operations, including:
- Airfield: The base has a single runway, measuring 8,000 feet in length, which is capable of supporting a wide range of aircraft types.
- Hangars: The base has several hangars, which provide maintenance and storage facilities for the aircraft operating from the base.
- Training facilities: The base has a range of training facilities, including simulators and classrooms, which provide training for Marine Corps aviators and maintenance personnel.
- Barracks: The base has several barracks, which provide accommodation for personnel stationed at the base.
- Dining facilities: The base has several dining facilities, which provide meals for personnel stationed at the base.
- Medical facilities: The base has a medical clinic, which provides medical support to personnel stationed at the base.
Community and Recreation
MCAS New River has a range of community and recreation facilities, including:
- Base exchange: The base has a base exchange, which provides a range of retail goods and services to personnel stationed at the base.
- Commissary: The base has a commissary, which provides a range of food and household goods to personnel stationed at the base.
- Recreation center: The base has a recreation center, which provides a range of recreational activities, including sports, fitness classes, and entertainment events.
- Shopping: The local communities have a range of shopping centers, including malls and retail parks.
- Dining: The local communities have a range of restaurants and cafes, serving a variety of cuisines.
- Recreation: The local communities have a range of recreational facilities, including parks, beaches, and golf courses.
📝 Note: Personnel stationed at MCAS New River should be aware of the base's rules and regulations, including those related to uniform wear, base access, and recreational activities.
Getting There
MCAS New River is located near the city of Jacksonville, North Carolina, and is accessible by car or public transportation. The base is situated near several major highways, including US-17 and I-40, and is also served by several public transportation services, including buses and taxis. The base is also located near several airports, including Albert J. Ellis Airport and Wilmington International Airport, which provide connections to several major airlines.
| Mode of Transport | Distance from Base | Approximate Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Car | 10 miles | 20 minutes |
| Public Transportation | 15 miles | 30 minutes |
| Airport | 20 miles | 40 minutes |
In summary, MCAS New River is a major military airbase located in Jacksonville, North Carolina, which plays a critical role in supporting the Marine Corps’ aviation operations. The base is home to several Marine Corps aviation units and has a range of facilities and infrastructure to support its operations. Personnel stationed at the base have access to a range of community and recreation facilities, as well as several local amenities and services.
What is the main purpose of MCAS New River?
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The main purpose of MCAS New River is to provide support to the Marine Corps’ aviation operations, including training, maintenance, and logistics.
What units are stationed at MCAS New River?
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MCAS New River is home to several Marine Corps aviation units, including the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing and the Marine Aircraft Group 26.
What facilities and infrastructure are available at MCAS New River?
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MCAS New River has a range of facilities and infrastructure, including an airfield, hangars, training facilities, barracks, dining facilities, and medical facilities.
