About this Unit
Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 764 (HMM-764), known as the "Moonlighters," is a United States Marine Corps Reserve unit originally activated in 1958. The squadron has operated a variety of helicopters, including the CH-46 Sea Knight, and has provided assault support and troop transport for Marine operations. HMM-764 has participated in numerous exercises and deployments, including humanitarian assistance missions and support for combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. In 2013, the squadron transitioned to the MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft and was redesignated as VMM-764.
Historical Facts
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Origins and Designation: HMM-764, also known as Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 764, was originally activated as VMO-764 in 1958, and later redesignated as HMM-764 in 1971.
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Reserve Component: The squadron was part of the United States Marine Corps Reserve and was based primarily at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth, Texas.
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Nickname: HMM-764 was nicknamed the “Moonlighters,” a moniker inherited from its earlier squadron lineage.
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Vietnam War Legacy: Though not deployed as a unit to Vietnam, many of its early personnel were veterans of the Vietnam War or trained with Vietnam-era equipment and tactics.
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Aircraft Operated: Throughout its history, HMM-764 flew a variety of helicopters, including the UH-34D Seahorse, CH-46 Sea Knight, and later transitioned to the MV-22B Osprey as VMM-764.
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Operation Desert Storm: HMM-764 was activated for service during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, providing valuable support in the Gulf War.
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Humanitarian Missions: The squadron participated in disaster relief missions, including support during Hurricane Andrew in 1992, demonstrating the flexibility and capability of Marine aviation.
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Global War on Terror: HMM-764 was mobilized for Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2004, deploying to Al Asad Airbase in Iraq and flying countless combat support missions.
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Transition to Ospreys: In 2013, HMM-764 was redesignated as VMM-764, transitioning from CH-46E Sea Knights to the MV-22B Osprey, reflecting modernization of the Marine Corps.
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Unit Decorations: The squadron earned multiple unit awards, including Navy Unit Commendations and Meritorious Unit Commendations, recognizing their operational excellence and service.