About this Unit
Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 268 (HMM-268), known as the "Red Dragons," was commissioned on September 1, 1972, at Marine Corps Air Station Tustin, California. The squadron was equipped with CH-46 Sea Knight helicopters and participated in numerous operations and deployments, including humanitarian assistance, training exercises, and combat support roles. HMM-268 played a key role in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm during the Gulf War and later supported Operation Iraqi Freedom. In 2006, the squadron transitioned to the MV-22 Osprey, becoming VMM-268, and continues to serve as a vital aviation asset for the United States Marine Corps.
Historical Facts
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Nickname – “Red Dragons”: HMM-268 is famously known as the "Red Dragons," a moniker reflecting their fierce spirit and distinctive unit insignia featuring a red dragon.
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Established in 1972: Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 268 (HMM-268) was officially activated on September 1, 1972, at Marine Corps Air Station Tustin, California.
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Vietnam War Era Roots: Although formed near the end of the Vietnam War, many of its early members were veterans of that conflict, bringing valuable experience to the squadron.
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CH-46E “Sea Knight” Operators: HMM-268 primarily operated the Boeing-Vertol CH-46E “Sea Knight” helicopter, a reliable workhorse for troop transport and assault support.
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Operation Desert Storm: The squadron deployed to the Persian Gulf in 1990-1991, supporting combat operations during Operation Desert Storm and earning accolades for its performance.
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Humanitarian Missions: HMM-268 participated in humanitarian relief efforts, including Operation Sea Angel in Bangladesh (1991) after a devastating cyclone, delivering aid and saving lives.
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Expeditionary Deployments: The Red Dragons were frequently deployed with Marine Expeditionary Units (MEUs), providing rapid-response capabilities from amphibious assault ships.
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Global War on Terror: HMM-268 supported Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, conducting combat and logistical missions in Iraq and Afghanistan.
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Transition to VMM-268: In 2014, HMM-268 was redesignated as VMM-268, transitioning from CH-46E helicopters to the tiltrotor MV-22B Osprey, marking a new era in aviation capability.
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Unit Awards: Over its history, HMM-268 has received multiple unit commendations and awards, reflecting its excellence in both combat and peacetime operations.
