MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. -- More than 150 Marines and Sailors with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 40 returned from a seven-month deployment to Afghanistan July 16 at the Cherry Point aerial port of embarkation.

The squadron deployed with more than 200 Marines and Sailors and grew to more than 300 in the past six months. While in Afghanistan, MALS-40 combined with detachments from MALS-26, MALS-29 and MALS-31.

The mission of the logistics squadron is to provide the forward Aviation Combat Element with mid-level maintenance support and keep supplies and necessary equipment to conduct missions.

MALS-40, commanded by Lt. Col. Ryan G. Goulette, was activated during a ceremony at Miller’s Landing Dec. 19 solely for the deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.