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HMM-363

4 members•1 unit

HMM-363 Homepage Photos Members

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Branch

U.S. Marine Corps

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About HMM-363

HMM-363, known as the "Lucky Red Lions," is a United States Marine Corps helicopter squadron originally commissioned on June 2, 1952. The unit distinguished itself during the Vietnam War, providing critical assault support and medevac missions under challenging combat conditions. Over the decades, HMM-363 participated in numerous operations and exercises, adapting to evolving aviation technology and mission requirements. In 2012, the squadron transitioned from flying the CH-46 Sea Knight to the MV-22B Osprey and was redesignated as VMM-363, continuing its legacy of excellence in Marine Corps aviation.

About HMM-363

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Nickname: HMM-363 was famously known as the "Lucky Red Lions," a moniker that reflects both their mascot and their reputation for effectiveness and courage.
Vietnam War Service: HMM-363 deployed to Vietnam in 1965, becoming one of the first Marine helicopter squadrons to serve in combat there, providing troop transport, medevac, and resupply missions.
CH-46 Sea Knight Operators: The squadron operated the CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter for much of its history, which became synonymous with their identity and operations.
Presidential Support: HMM-363 participated in Operation Homecoming in 1973, assisting in the return of American POWs from North Vietnam.
Multiple Deactivations and Reactivations: The squadron was deactivated in 1971 after Vietnam, reactivated in 1978, deactivated again in 1992, and once more reactivated in 2006—demonstrating its ongoing value to Marine aviation.
Humanitarian Missions: Beyond combat, HMM-363 played key roles in humanitarian operations, such as disaster relief in Bangladesh following a devastating cyclone in 1991.
OIF Deployments: The squadron deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, providing essential assault support and logistical operations for Marine ground forces.
Aircraft Transition: In 2012, HMM-363 was redesignated as VMM-363 and transitioned to the MV-22 Osprey, ending its era as a CH-46 squadron.
Distinctive Insignia: The squadron's patch features a red lion on a yellow background, symbolizing strength, courage, and their "Lucky" tradition.
Legacy of Valor: HMM-363 earned numerous unit citations and commendations for valor and excellence, including Navy Unit Commendations and Meritorious Unit Commendations across its storied history.

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HMM-363

4 members•1 unit

HMM-363 Homepage Photos Members

Relive and share the memories of your service-time with your brothers and sisters in arms today. VetFriends.com can help you reconnect.

Did you proudly serve in the HMM-363?

Are you looking for someone who is or was in the HMM-363?

Do you have HMM-363 photos you'd like to share?

Then join a community with your brothers and sisters of the HMM-363.

Branch

U.S. Marine Corps

Members

About HMM-363

Photos

Viet Nam 1970

H&MS-13 • U.S. Marine Corps • 1970

Jesse K Hyder 1st Lt Vietnam 1969

1st Marine Airwing DaNang Vietnam • U.S. Marine Corps • 1969

Jesse K Hyder USMC 1st Lt Retired

1st Marine Air Wing Vietnam 1969 • U.S. Marine Corps • 2026

Boot Camp Graduation Picture Nov.1979

2nd Bn, 10th Mariners Artillery • U.S. Marine Corps

About HMM-363

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Nickname: HMM-363 was famously known as the "Lucky Red Lions," a moniker that reflects both their mascot and their reputation for effectiveness and courage.
Vietnam War Service: HMM-363 deployed to Vietnam in 1965, becoming one of the first Marine helicopter squadrons to serve in combat there, providing troop transport, medevac, and resupply missions.
CH-46 Sea Knight Operators: The squadron operated the CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter for much of its history, which became synonymous with their identity and operations.
Presidential Support: HMM-363 participated in Operation Homecoming in 1973, assisting in the return of American POWs from North Vietnam.
Multiple Deactivations and Reactivations: The squadron was deactivated in 1971 after Vietnam, reactivated in 1978, deactivated again in 1992, and once more reactivated in 2006—demonstrating its ongoing value to Marine aviation.
Humanitarian Missions: Beyond combat, HMM-363 played key roles in humanitarian operations, such as disaster relief in Bangladesh following a devastating cyclone in 1991.
OIF Deployments: The squadron deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, providing essential assault support and logistical operations for Marine ground forces.
Aircraft Transition: In 2012, HMM-363 was redesignated as VMM-363 and transitioned to the MV-22 Osprey, ending its era as a CH-46 squadron.
Distinctive Insignia: The squadron's patch features a red lion on a yellow background, symbolizing strength, courage, and their "Lucky" tradition.
Legacy of Valor: HMM-363 earned numerous unit citations and commendations for valor and excellence, including Navy Unit Commendations and Meritorious Unit Commendations across its storied history.