On 25 September 1942, the area presently known as Marine Corps Air Station, Camp Pendleton, California was designated an auxiliary landing field and served as a sub-unit of Marine Corps Air Station El Toro.

Through the years, aviation began to play an increasing role in Marine Corps tactics, creating a need for modern facilities.

On 13 March 1985, MCAF Pendleton was re-designated as Marine Corps Air Station effective 1 April 1985.

The first medium lift helicopter squadron joined MAG-39 in January 1999, and the final one came in June of that year.

The aircraft is used in the operational support role, allowing high priority passengers and cargo to be flown at a reduced cost compared to using the MV-22B Osprey or UH-1Y Venom.