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VMF(N)-531 GCI Detachment
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The VMF(N)-531 GCI Detachment was a short-lived aviation command and control unit that was part of the United States Marine Corps's first night fighter squadron, VMF(N)-531. This detachment was the Marine Corps' first dedicated GCI detachment utilized in a combat zone.[1] In the early phases of World War II the Marine Corps did not have stand-alone early warning and ground-controlled intercept (GCI) units so these capabilities were initially placed in the headquarters of each Marine Aircraft Group and with individual night fighter squadrons.[2] The detachment was deployed in the South Pacific from August 1943 through August 1944 and was responsible for the interception of numerous Japanese aircraft. Lessons learned from this deployment were instrumental in establishing tactics and procedures for the Marine Corps' newly established Air Warning Program. Upon returning from its first and only deployment, the detachment was dissolved and its members went on to serve as instructors at the 1st Marine Air Warning Group, which was responsible for training new squadrons. Many of them later served in leadership roles in these Air Warning Squadrons as they supported follow on combat operations.
VMF(N)-531 GCI Detachment | |
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![]() VMF(N)-531 GCI Detachment's SCR-527 on Stirling Island in early 1944 | |
Active |
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Country | United States |
Allegiance | United States of America |
Branch | United States Marine Corps |
Role | Ground-controlled interception Early warning |
Part of | N/A |
Engagements | World War II |
Commanders | |
Notable commanders | LtCol Robert O. Bisson |