U.S. Marine Corps Veteran
Branch
U.S. Marine Corps
Service Years
2005 - 2017
3:6th Marines
U.S. Marine Corps
The 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment (3/6), nicknamed "Teufelhunden," was activated in 1917 and quickly distinguished itself in World War I, fighting in battles such as Belleau Wood and Soissons. During World War II, the battalion participated in the Guadalcanal, Tarawa, and Saipan campaigns, earning multiple Presidential Unit Citations. In more recent history, 3/6 has deployed in support of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, taking part in major campaigns such as Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Renowned for its combat effectiveness and esprit de corps, 3/6 remains a vital infantry battalion within the 2nd Marine Division.
HMLA 167
U.S. Marine Corps
Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 167 (HMLA-167), known as the "Warriors," was originally activated on March 1, 1968, at Marble Mountain Air Facility, Vietnam, as HML-167. The squadron provided close air support, armed escort, and utility helicopter support to Marine ground forces during the Vietnam War, flying the UH-1E Huey. Over the decades, HMLA-167 has participated in numerous operations, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom, evolving its mission with the introduction of AH-1 Cobra attack helicopters and upgraded UH-1Y Venoms. Today, HMLA-167 remains an integral part of Marine Aircraft Group 29, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, based at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina.
VMGR-452
U.S. Marine Corps
Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 452 (VMGR-452), known as the "Yankees," was a reserve United States Marine Corps squadron based at Stewart Air National Guard Base, New York. Established in 1988, VMGR-452 operated the KC-130 Hercules, providing aerial refueling and assault support to Marine Corps and joint forces. The squadron played a notable role in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, deploying personnel and aircraft to support combat operations overseas. VMGR-452 was deactivated in December 2022 as part of the Marine Corps' Force Design 2030 restructuring efforts.
HMT-302
U.S. Marine Corps
Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron 302 (HMT-302), also known as the "Phoenix," was a United States Marine Corps helicopter training squadron. Activated in September 1969 at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Tustin, California, HMT-302 was tasked with training pilots and aircrew on the CH-53 Sea Stallion and later the CH-53E Super Stallion heavy-lift helicopters. Throughout its existence, the squadron played a critical role in preparing Marines for operational assignments around the globe. HMT-302 was deactivated in 2005 as part of a broader restructuring of Marine Corps aviation training.
MAG-49
U.S. Marine Corps
Marine Aircraft Group 49 (MAG-49) is a United States Marine Corps Reserve aviation unit established in 1969. Headquartered at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, MAG-49 provides aviation combat element support, including assault support, heavy lift, and aviation logistics, to Marine Forces Reserve. Throughout its history, MAG-49 has participated in numerous training exercises and mobilizations, supporting both domestic and overseas operations such as Operation Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. The group’s diverse squadrons operate various rotary and fixed-wing aircraft, maintaining readiness to augment active-duty Marine aviation forces when called upon.
USMC Recruiting
U.S. Marine Corps
The United States Marine Corps Recruiting Command traces its origins to the early days of the Marine Corps, with formal recruiting efforts dating back to 1775. Its mission is to seek out and enlist qualified individuals into the ranks of the Marine Corps, ensuring the continued strength and readiness of the force. Over the centuries, Marine recruiters have adapted to evolving warfare demands, technological advancements, and societal changes, refining their strategies to attract top talent. Today, USMC Recruiting operates nationwide and abroad, playing a critical role in maintaining the Marine Corps’ elite status and upholding its proud traditions.