About this Unit
Marine Transport Squadron 216 (VMR-216) was a United States Marine Corps transport squadron established during World War II. Activated in March 1944, VMR-216 was primarily tasked with providing critical air transport of personnel, equipment, and supplies throughout the Pacific Theater, supporting major campaigns such as those in the Philippines and Okinawa. The squadron operated the R4D (military version of the Douglas DC-3) and played a vital role in medical evacuations and logistics operations. After the war, VMR-216 was deactivated in 1946 as part of the postwar drawdown of forces.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: Marine Transport Squadron 216 (VMR-216) was commissioned on March 1, 1944, at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, to provide air transport support during World War II.
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Pacific Theater Operations: VMR-216 was deployed to the Pacific and supported major campaigns, including the Battle of Okinawa, by transporting troops, cargo, and evacuating wounded Marines.
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C-46 Commando Aircraft: The squadron was primarily equipped with the Curtiss C-46 Commando, a large twin-engine transport aircraft ideal for long-range missions over the vast Pacific.
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Critical Resupply Missions: VMR-216 played a crucial role in resupplying forward-deployed units on remote islands, often flying through hazardous weather and under threat of enemy action.
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Casualty Evacuation: The squadron performed vital medical evacuation missions, rapidly transporting wounded Marines from combat zones to rear-area hospitals, saving countless lives.
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Post-War Activity: After World War II, VMR-216 remained active in the Pacific, supporting occupation and rebuilding efforts in Japan and other areas.
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Deactivation and Reactivation: The squadron was deactivated in November 1949 as part of post-war drawdowns, but its legacy continued through other Marine Corps transport squadrons.
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Distinctive Insignia: VMR-216’s squadron patch featured a winged horse (Pegasus) carrying a mailbag, symbolizing speed and reliability in delivering vital supplies and messages.
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Notable Firsts: VMR-216 was among the earliest Marine squadrons to operate the C-46 in a combat environment, demonstrating the aircraft’s value for military airlift missions.
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Honored Legacy: Although VMR-216 was short-lived, its contributions to Marine air transport in WWII are remembered as an important chapter in the evolution of Marine aviation logistics.
