About this Unit
Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 269 (HMA-269), also known as the "Gunrunners," was activated on February 22, 1971, at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina. The squadron initially operated the AH-1J SeaCobra and later transitioned to advanced versions, including the AH-1W Super Cobra and the UH-1Y Venom. HMA-269 has participated in numerous major operations, including Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom, providing close air support and armed escort for Marine ground forces. Renowned for its operational excellence, the Gunrunners have played a vital role in Marine Corps aviation for over five decades.
Historical Facts
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Origins: Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 269 (HMA-269), also known as the "Gunrunners," was originally commissioned on February 22, 1971, at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina.
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Vietnam Legacy: Although formed near the end of the Vietnam War, HMA-269 inherited the traditions and lessons learned from Marine helicopter operations in Vietnam.
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Early Aircraft: The original aircraft for HMA-269 were the AH-1J SeaCobra attack helicopters, marking the unit as one of the early users of dedicated attack helicopters in the Marine Corps.
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Nickname "Gunrunners": The squadron adopted "Gunrunners" as its nickname, reflecting its primary mission of providing close air support and firepower for Marine ground forces.
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First Deployments: In the 1970s, HMA-269 deployed aboard amphibious assault ships, providing helicopter gunship support for Marine Expeditionary Units in the Mediterranean Sea and the Caribbean.
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Aircraft Evolution: The squadron later transitioned to the more advanced AH-1T, AH-1W Super Cobra, and eventually AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters, as well as the UH-1N and UH-1Y utility helicopters.
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Operation Desert Storm: HMA-269 played a key role in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, providing aerial fire support during the liberation of Kuwait.
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Humanitarian Missions: The Gunrunners have participated in numerous humanitarian operations, including disaster relief in Haiti and Central America, showcasing the versatility of Marine aviation.
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Global War on Terror: HMA-269 was actively involved in both Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan) and Operation Iraqi Freedom, supporting troops with attack and utility helicopters.
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Deactivation: After more than 50 years of service, HMA-269 was deactivated on May 15, 2023, as part of the Marine Corps' Force Design 2030 modernization efforts, ending a proud chapter in Marine aviation history.
