About this Unit
Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267 (HMLA-267), known as the "Stingers," was activated on October 15, 1982, at Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, California. Initially equipped with AH-1J SeaCobras, the squadron transitioned to the AH-1W SuperCobra and later incorporated UH-1Y Venom helicopters. HMLA-267 has participated in multiple deployments, including Operations Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom, providing close air support and assault support missions. The unit continues to serve as a vital component of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, supporting Marine Air-Ground Task Forces worldwide.
Historical Facts
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Established in 1966: Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267 (HMLA-267) was originally commissioned as Marine Observation Squadron 5 (VMO-5) on March 15, 1966, at Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, California.
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Vietnam War Service: The squadron deployed to Vietnam in 1966, providing aerial reconnaissance, close air support, and escort missions for ground forces.
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Transition to Gunships: In 1972, the unit transitioned from observation aircraft to the AH-1J SeaCobra attack helicopter, reflecting a shift in mission focus.
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Name Changes: The squadron has undergone multiple redesignations, including VMO-5, HMA-267 in 1972, and finally HMLA-267 in 1987, when it received UH-1N "Huey" helicopters and became a light attack helicopter squadron.
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Nickname "Stingers": HMLA-267 is known by the nickname "Stingers," a reference to the offensive punch of their attack helicopters.
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First to Receive AH-1W SuperCobra: In 1986, HMLA-267 became the first Marine Corps squadron to receive the advanced AH-1W SuperCobra attack helicopter.
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Operation Desert Storm: Elements of the squadron participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, providing close air support and escort missions in the Persian Gulf region.
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Global Deployments: The squadron has deployed in support of major operations, including Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, conducting combat missions in Iraq and Afghanistan.
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Transition to AH-1Z Viper: HMLA-267 was among the first units to transition to the new AH-1Z Viper attack helicopter, which offers advanced avionics and weapon systems.
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Humanitarian Missions: In addition to combat deployments, HMLA-267 has participated in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions, including support during Operation Tomodachi in Japan after the 2011 earthquake and tsunami.
