Robert Linnabery

The 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (3rd MAW) was commissioned on November 10, 1942, at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, to provide air support for Marine ground forces during World War II. Throughout the war, the wing played a crucial role in the Pacific Theater, participating in campaigns such as the Battle of Okinawa. During the Korean and Vietnam Wars, the 3rd MAW continued to provide vital air power, including close air support, assault support, and air reconnaissance. Today, based at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, the 3rd MAW remains a key element of the USMC’s aviation combat power, supporting operations worldwide.

The 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (2nd MAW) was commissioned on July 10, 1941, at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina. During World War II, the unit played a crucial role in the Pacific Theater, providing air support in key campaigns such as the Battle of Okinawa and the capture of Iwo Jima. In subsequent decades, 2nd MAW participated in the Korean War, Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, and the Global War on Terror, supporting Marine operations with fixed-wing and rotary aircraft. Today, the 2nd MAW remains a vital component of the United States Marine Corps, delivering air support, assault support, and reconnaissance capabilities to Marine Air-Ground Task Forces worldwide.

Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 262 (HMM-262), known as the "Flying Tigers," is a distinguished helicopter squadron within Marine Aircraft Group 39 (MAG-39), 1st Marine Aircraft Wing (1st MAW). Activated in 1951, HMM-262 has served in numerous major conflicts, including the Vietnam War, where it provided critical assault support and troop transport. Over the decades, the squadron has participated in various humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions across the Asia-Pacific region. Renowned for its operational excellence and adaptability, HMM-262 continues to support Marine Corps missions with its fleet of transport helicopters, upholding a proud legacy of service.