About this Unit
Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 164 (HMM-164), also known as the "Knightriders," was activated on July 1, 1964, at Marine Corps Air Facility Santa Ana, California. The squadron quickly deployed to Vietnam, where it played a vital role in troop transport, medevac, and resupply missions using CH-46 Sea Knight helicopters. HMM-164 participated in major operations throughout the Vietnam War, earning multiple unit commendations for its distinguished service. Following Vietnam, the squadron continued to support Marine Corps operations worldwide until it was redesignated as VMM-164 in 2015, transitioning to the MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft.
Historical Facts
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Formation and Early Days: Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 164 (HMM-164) was activated on July 1, 1964, at Marine Corps Air Facility Santa Ana, California, to provide medium-lift helicopter support.
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Vietnam War Service: HMM-164 was rapidly deployed to Vietnam in 1966, operating CH-46 Sea Knight helicopters and playing a crucial role in troop transport, medevac, and supply missions throughout the conflict.
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Nickname “Knightriders”: The squadron was known as the “Knightriders,” a nickname derived from their primary aircraft, the CH-46 Sea Knight, and their steadfast support of Marine ground operations.
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Presidential Helicopter Missions: In 1967, HMM-164 was selected to provide helicopter support for President Lyndon B. Johnson during his visit to Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam.
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First “All-Black” Helicopter: HMM-164 became famous for operating “Lady Ace 09,” the first all-black painted helicopter used for night operations during the Vietnam War.
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Operation Frequent Wind: In April 1975, HMM-164 participated in Operation Frequent Wind, the evacuation of Saigon, rescuing U.S. and Vietnamese personnel as North Vietnamese forces captured the city.
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Post-Vietnam Deployments: After Vietnam, HMM-164 continued to serve in major exercises and deployments throughout the Western Pacific, including multiple deployments with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU).
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Gulf War Participation: HMM-164 supported Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm in 1990-1991, providing combat assault and logistical support to coalition forces in the Middle East.
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Humanitarian Missions: The squadron was involved in numerous humanitarian missions, including disaster relief operations in the Philippines and Bangladesh following typhoons and cyclones.
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Deactivation and Legacy: HMM-164 was deactivated on June 30, 2015, as part of the Marine Corps’ transition to the MV-22 Osprey, but its legacy of valor and innovation continues to inspire Marine aviation.
