About this Unit
Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 161 (HMM-161), known as the "Greyhawks," was activated on January 15, 1951, at Marine Corps Air Station El Toro, California. As the first helicopter transport squadron in the Marine Corps, HMM-161 pioneered vertical envelopment tactics during the Korean War, including the first combat helicopter assault at the Battle of the Punchbowl. The squadron later participated in operations during the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the Global War on Terror, providing assault support and humanitarian assistance worldwide. HMM-161 was redesignated as VMM-161 in 2009, transitioning to the MV-22 Osprey and continuing its legacy of excellence in aviation support.
Historical Facts
• First Marine Helicopter Squadron in Combat: HMM-161 (Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 161) was the first Marine helicopter transport squadron to deploy in combat, seeing action during the Korean War in 1951.
• Historic Helicopter Assault: On September 21, 1951, HMM-161 conducted the first combat helicopter-borne vertical envelopment in history during the Battle of the Punchbowl, moving Marines directly into battle behind enemy lines.
• Nickname "Greyhawks": The squadron is known as the "Greyhawks," a moniker that reflects their aviation heritage and keen operational vision.
• First to Use the HRS-1: HMM-161 was the first squadron to operate the Sikorsky HRS-1 helicopter, a pivotal aircraft in early Marine Corps aviation history.
• Vietnam War Operations: The squadron played a significant role in the Vietnam War, conducting troop insertions, resupply, and medevac missions under fire, often in challenging terrain.
• Participation in Operation Desert Storm: HMM-161 took part in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, providing airlift support for Marine forces in the liberation of Kuwait.
• Transition to "Reinforced" Status: HMM-161 has frequently deployed as HMM-161 (Rein), with additional assets such as attack helicopters and other support aircraft, making it a key component of Marine Expeditionary Units (MEUs).
• Global Humanitarian Missions: The squadron has supported numerous humanitarian missions, including disaster relief in the Philippines after Typhoon Haiyan in 2013.
• Aircraft Evolution: Over its history, HMM-161 has transitioned from the HRS-1 to the CH-46 Sea Knight, and later to the MV-22B Osprey as VMM-161, reflecting technological leaps in Marine aviation.
• Distinguished Honors: HMM-161 has earned multiple unit citations and commendations for valor and service, including Presidential Unit Citations for actions in Korea and Vietnam.
