About this Unit
Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 263 (HMM-263), also known as the "Thunder Chickens," was activated on 1 June 1958. The squadron has a distinguished history, participating in major operations including the Cuban Missile Crisis, the Vietnam War, and Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. HMM-263 also played significant roles in humanitarian missions and peacekeeping operations, such as Operation Provide Comfort in Northern Iraq and disaster relief in Haiti. The unit transitioned to the MV-22 Osprey in 2006, redesignating as VMM-263, and continues to serve as a vital part of Marine Corps aviation.
Historical Facts
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Vietnam War Service: HMM-263, also known as the "Thunder Chickens," was activated in 1958 and played a significant role in the Vietnam War, conducting helicopter assault and resupply missions.
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CH-46 Sea Knight Era: The squadron operated the CH-46D/E "Sea Knight" helicopter for decades, making them iconic for their tandem-rotor aircraft and amphibious assault capabilities.
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Operation Urgent Fury (Grenada): In 1983, HMM-263 participated in Operation Urgent Fury, the U.S. invasion of Grenada, providing helicopter transport for Marines and evacuating civilians.
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Gulf War Deployment: HMM-263 deployed in support of Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm, moving Marines and supplies in the liberation of Kuwait.
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Somalia Humanitarian Mission: The squadron was involved in Operation Restore Hope in Somalia (1992-93), supporting humanitarian relief efforts in a conflict zone.
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Iraq War Involvement: HMM-263 deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, conducting troop insertions, logistics, and casualty evacuations.
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Transition to Osprey: In 2007, HMM-263 was redesignated as VMM-263, becoming one of the first Marine units to transition from CH-46 helicopters to the MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft.
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Hurricane Katrina Relief: The squadron provided disaster relief and search-and-rescue operations after Hurricane Katrina in 2005, showcasing their rapid response capability.
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Nickname and Mascot: The "Thunder Chickens" nickname and rooster mascot are beloved traditions, symbolizing the unit's pride and esprit de corps.
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Presidential Unit Citation: HMM-263 has received several unit awards, including the prestigious Presidential Unit Citation, for extraordinary heroism and outstanding performance in combat operations.
