HMM-266

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Branch

U.S. Marine Corps

Members

About HMM-266

Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 266 (HMM-266) was activated on September 26, 1983, at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina. The squadron, known as the "Fighting Griffins," operated CH-46E Sea Knight helicopters and provided assault support for Marine Air-Ground Task Force operations. HMM-266 participated in numerous deployments and operations, including peacekeeping in Lebanon, Operations Desert Shield/Desert Storm, and multiple deployments in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In 2006, the squadron transitioned to the MV-22 Osprey and was redesignated as VMM-266, continuing its legacy of excellence in tiltrotor aviation.

Unit Members

zachery Cordes

U.S. Marine Corps

HMM-266View Profile

Andy Cordill

U.S. Marine Corps

HMM-266View Profile

Photos

U.S. Marine Corps • 1976

About HMM-266

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Official Name and Nickname: Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 266 (HMM-266) is also known as the "Fighting Griffins." • Activation Date: HMM-266 was activated on 26 September 1983 at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) New River, North Carolina. • Primary Aircraft: The squadron initially operated the CH-46E Sea Knight, a twin-rotor transport helicopter renowned for its reliability and service in the USMC. • Operation Desert Storm: HMM-266 participated in Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm in the early 1990s, supporting combat and humanitarian missions in the Persian Gulf. • Humanitarian Operations: The squadron was involved in Operation Provide Comfort in northern Iraq, delivering aid and evacuating refugees post-Gulf War. • MEU Deployments: As a regular part of the 24th and 26th Marine Expeditionary Units (MEUs), HMM-266 supported numerous global deployments and exercises. • Operation Enduring Freedom: HMM-266 deployed to Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom, supporting helicopter assault and resupply operations. • Iraq War Involvement: The squadron participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom, providing critical lift and support for Marine and coalition forces. • Aircraft Transition: HMM-266 was redesignated as VMM-266 in 2007, transitioning to the MV-22B Osprey, a tiltrotor aircraft with greater speed and range than the CH-46E. • Distinctive Insignia: The “Griffin” insignia, featuring a mythological creature, reflects the squadron’s strength, vigilance, and fighting spirit throughout its history.