Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point was originally commissioned in 1942 as the Alfred A. Cunningham Airfield, providing flight-training facilities for Marine Corps aviators fighting in the Pacific Theater during World War II. The base was later renamed Cherry Point after a nearby rural post office, nestled among the cherry trees.

Sitting on approximately 8,000 acres along the Neuse River near Havelock, in Craven County, North Carolina, MCAS Cherry Point is home to the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), including Marine Aircraft Group 14, Marine Aircraft Group 27 and Marine Air Control Group 28. Marine Corps aviators from MCAS Cherry Point have seen combat action in every conflict since the facility opened and are now serving with distinction in “Operation Iraqi Freedom.”


Among the aircraft assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 14 are three squadrons of AV-8B II and AV-8B II Plus Harriers, the vertical-takeoff jets that provide close air support for Marines on the ground in combat. Also on duty are four squadrons of EA-6B Prowlers, instrumental in gathering reconnaissance data on the battlefield and in jamming the enemy’s radar and neutralizing his surface-to-air missiles. Finally, MCAS Cherry Point is home to a squadron of KC-130 Hercules, used primarily for airborne refueling missions.

MCAS Cherry Point is also home to “Pedro” the H-46 Marine Corps helicopter used for aerial search and rescue missions.

Since its inception, MCAS Cherry Point has become an integral part of the life of eastern North Carolina, especially the four counties where its military and civilian personnel primarily reside. Just in terms of economic impact, MCAS Cherry Point is a significant contributor to the financial health of the region. In 2004 the base will pay some $470 Million in salaries to its over 7,500 Marines and Sailors and 1,000 civilian personnel. MCAS Cherry Point awards about $30 million annually in contracts in eastern North Carolina, hiring local contractors and vendors whenever practical. Together, MCAS Cherry Point and NADEP represent a $1.1 Billion annual impact to North Carolina economy.

In addition, the personnel of MCAS Cherry Point are active members of their communities; contributing time, talent and donations to civic, church and charitable enterprises where they live. The diversity of backgrounds and experience combined with their “can do” attitudes, make Marines outstanding friends, neighbors and community partners.

Commanding the Marines in the 2nd MAW is Major General John G. Castellaw and commanding MCAS Cherry Point is Major General Robert M. Flanagan.

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