About this Unit
Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462 (HMH-462), known as the "Heavy Haulers," was originally activated during World War II in April 1944 as Marine Fighting Squadron 462. The unit was re-designated and reactivated several times, ultimately becoming HMH-462 and flying heavy-lift helicopters such as the CH-53 series. HMH-462 has participated in numerous operations, including the Vietnam War, Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, and humanitarian assistance missions. Based at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, the squadron continues to provide assault support and heavy-lift capabilities for the United States Marine Corps.
Historical Facts
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Unit Name and Nickname: HMH-462 is officially known as Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462, and carries the nickname "Heavy Haulers."
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Establishment: The squadron was originally activated on 15 April 1944 during World War II at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina.
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WWII Service: During World War II, HMH-462 was designated as Marine Fighting Squadron 462 (VMF-462) and flew the F4U Corsair before being deactivated after the war.
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Reactivation and Helicopter Era: The squadron was reactivated in 1958 as HMR(M)-462 (Marine Helicopter Transport Squadron) at MCAS Santa Ana, California, and transitioned to the heavy-lift role with the Sikorsky HR2S-1 (CH-37 Mojave).
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Vietnam War Deployments: HMH-462 deployed to Vietnam in 1966, flying the CH-53A Sea Stallion, and participated in major operations including troop insertions, resupply, and medevac missions.
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Operation Frequent Wind: Members of HMH-462 took part in the evacuation of Saigon in April 1975, the largest helicopter evacuation in history, saving thousands during the fall of South Vietnam.
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Humanitarian Missions: The squadron has participated in numerous humanitarian and disaster relief missions, including operations following the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami in Japan.
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Aircraft: Over its history, HMH-462 has operated several heavy-lift helicopters, from the CH-37 Mojave to the CH-53E Super Stallion, the largest and heaviest helicopter in the US military.
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Unit Awards: HMH-462 has earned multiple unit commendations, including the Presidential Unit Citation and Navy Unit Commendation for exemplary performance in combat and non-combat operations.
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Current Status: Today, HMH-462 is based at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, and continues to provide heavy-lift support for the United States Marine Corps as part of Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing.
