HMM-262

• Formation and Nickname: Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 262 (HMM-262), nicknamed the "Flying Tigers," was activated on September 1, 1951. • Vietnam War Service: HMM-262 served valiantly in the Vietnam War, conducting combat operations from 1966 to 1971, including troop insertions, medevac missions, and resupply. • Operation Frequent Wind: The squadron played a crucial role in Operation Frequent Wind in April 1975, the evacuation of Saigon, marking the end of American involvement in Vietnam. • First to Fly CH-46E: HMM-262 was among the first squadrons to operate the upgraded CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter, enhancing their lift and operational capabilities. • Humanitarian Assistance: In 1991, HMM-262 participated in Operation Sea Angel, providing disaster relief in Bangladesh after a devastating cyclone. • Global Deployments: The squadron has deployed throughout the Pacific, including Japan, Korea, the Philippines, and Australia, in support of exercises and real-world contingencies. • Re-designation: In 2009, HMM-262 transitioned from helicopters to tiltrotor aircraft and was re-designated as VMM-262, flying the MV-22B Osprey. • Distinctive Insignia: The squadron’s insignia features a flying tiger, honoring the legendary WWII Flying Tigers and symbolizing their fighting spirit. • Forward Deployed: HMM/VMM-262 is forward-deployed to Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan, maintaining readiness as part of the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. • Support to Allies: Over the years, HMM-262 has supported numerous joint and combined operations with allied nations, strengthening partnerships throughout the Indo-Pacific region.