HMH 461st MCAS

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Branch

U.S. Marine Corps

Members

About HMH 461st MCAS

HMH-461, also known as "Ironhorse," is a United States Marine Corps heavy helicopter squadron based at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) New River, North Carolina. Activated in 1944 during World War II, the unit originally flew transport and cargo missions in the Pacific Theater. Over the decades, HMH-461 has operated various aircraft, most notably the CH-53E Super Stallion and, more recently, the CH-53K King Stallion, providing heavy-lift capabilities for the Marine Air-Ground Task Force. The squadron has participated in numerous combat and humanitarian operations worldwide, earning a distinguished record for its service and adaptability.

Unit Members

John Melo

U.S. Marine Corps

HMH 461st MCASView Profile

Malcolm Lane

U.S. Marine Corps

HMH 461st MCASView Profile

Photos

U.S. Marine Corps • 1976

About HMH 461st MCAS

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins: Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461 (HMH-461), known as "Ironhorse," was activated on 15 May 1944 during World War II. • Aircraft Evolution: The squadron has operated several aircraft, including the Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion and, more recently, the CH-53K King Stallion, the most advanced heavy-lift helicopter in the USMC inventory. • World War II Service: HMH-461 was originally formed as Marine Fighting Squadron 461 (VMF-461) and flew F4U Corsairs during WWII. • Redesignation: The squadron was redesignated several times, transitioning from a fighter to a transport squadron, and finally to a heavy helicopter squadron in 1957. • Humanitarian Missions: HMH-461 has provided disaster relief and humanitarian assistance worldwide, including operations in Haiti after the 2010 earthquake. • Combat Deployments: The squadron has participated in combat operations in the Middle East, including Operations Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom. • First CH-53K Deployment: In April 2023, HMH-461 became the first operational squadron to deploy the CH-53K King Stallion, marking a new era in Marine Corps aviation. • Home Base: The squadron is based at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) New River in North Carolina, a major hub for Marine aviation units. • SAR Missions: HMH-461 is renowned for its search and rescue (SAR) capabilities, conducting numerous life-saving missions both in peacetime and combat. • Unit Motto and Insignia: The squadron’s motto is "Ironhorse," and its insignia features a powerful warhorse, symbolizing strength, endurance, and dependability.