HMM-163

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Branch

U.S. Marine Corps

Members

About HMM-163

Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 163 (HMM-163), known as the "Evil Eyes," was commissioned in 1951 and has a distinguished history within the United States Marine Corps. The squadron gained recognition for its extensive combat service during the Vietnam War, where its helicopters provided assault support, troop transport, and medical evacuation under challenging conditions. HMM-163 continued its legacy with deployments in subsequent conflicts, including Operations Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom, supporting Marine Air-Ground Task Force operations worldwide. In 2010, the squadron transitioned to the MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft and was redesignated as VMM-163, continuing its proud tradition of excellence in aviation.

Unit Members

Mark Zaffuto

U.S. Marine Corps

HMM-163View Profile

Michael Nichols

U.S. Marine Corps

HMM-163View Profile

Photos

Another VQ bird landing in Danang

U.S. Navy • 1969

About HMM-163

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Nickname – “Evil Eyes”: HMM-163 (Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 163) is famously known as the “Evil Eyes.” The distinctive eye motif painted on their helicopters became an iconic symbol during the Vietnam War. • Vietnam War Origins: The “Evil Eyes” insignia originated in 1965 at the suggestion of squadron members to intimidate the enemy in Vietnam, with the first CH-34 helicopters sporting painted eyes and teeth. • Early Combat Operations: HMM-163 was one of the first helicopter squadrons deployed to Vietnam, supporting major operations like Starlite and providing troop transport, medevac, and resupply missions. • Operation Frequent Wind: In April 1975, HMM-163 participated in the evacuation of Saigon, the largest helicopter evacuation in history, rescuing thousands of Americans and South Vietnamese. • Aircraft Evolution: The squadron operated several types of helicopters through its history, including the HUS-1 (UH-34D Seahorse), CH-46 Sea Knight, and later the MV-22 Osprey. • Presidential Support: HMM-163 provided helicopter transport for President Lyndon B. Johnson during his 1966 visit to Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam. • Unit Citations: The squadron earned multiple Presidential Unit Citations and Navy Unit Commendations for valor and effectiveness in combat. • Humanitarian Missions: HMM-163 participated in disaster relief operations, including support after typhoons and earthquakes in the Pacific region. • Transition to VMM-163: In 2011, HMM-163 transitioned from CH-46 helicopters to the MV-22 Osprey, becoming Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 163 (VMM-163). • Legacy and Popular Culture: The “Evil Eyes” imagery and squadron history remain popular in Marine Corps lore, featured in books, documentaries, and military art.