HMM-262 Marines deploy to first combat tour since Vietnam
Lance Cpl. Juan D. Alfonso

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FUTENMA, Okinawa (January 26, 2007) -- After more than 40 years since its last combat deployment, an Okinawa-based medium helicopter squadron from 1st Marine Aircraft Wing is answering the call to support operations in Iraq.

Marines with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 262, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st MAW, left for Iraq this month.

The squadron will be based in Anbar province, where it will provide general air support to ground units. HMM-262 Marines will deliver supplies and assist rescue operations and raids in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

The squadron will work around the clock from the moment they arrive in Iraq, according to Capt. Andrew J. Tyson, the squadron's adjutant. Marines will set up day and night crews to ensure support is available to any unit at any time.

Many Marines said the squadron was due to be called to combat. The last time was during the Vietnam War, Tyson said.

"We're anxious to get out there and do what we were trained to do," Tyson said.

The squadron received deployment notification in October and immediately began preparing. They trained on convoy operations and familiarization with crew served weapons, among other combat skills.

In December, the Marines with Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron 1 put the HMM-262 Marines through a series of simulated missions during Exercise Desert Talon at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz.

"We're very prepared," Tyson said. "Desert Talon did a great job of getting us ready by familiarizing us with the types of missions we are expected to perform."

The squadron's sergeant major echoed Tyson's confidence.

"We've done everything to have a successful deployment," said Sgt. Maj. Leon S. Thornton. "The Marines have a high level of motivation, and the command provided us with all the opportunities and training we needed for this deployment."

Many of the Marines with the squadron felt anxious to begin their deployment and perform their jobs in a combat environment.

"Every Marine wants to ensure their name is written in history," Thornton said. "As Marines, we all train for combat. It's ingrained in us to live to defend America. We've answered the call and accepted the challenge. We're going to Iraq."

http://www.okinawa.usmc.mil/Public%20Affairs%20Info/Archive%20News%20Pages/2007/070126-deploy.html