Submitted by:
MCB Camp Pendleton
Story by:
Computed Name: Lance Cpl. Chris T. Mann
Story Identification #:
20076715038

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif.(June 7, 2007) -- Faces of expectant friends and families displayed joy as a small formation of helicopters flew over the landing area of the Marine Aircraft Group 39 flight line.

Marines with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267 and Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 39 returned to Camp Pendleton May 30 after a seven-month deployment to Iraq. After landing, they dashed out of the helicopters without haste to greet eagerly waiting family and friends inside the HMLA-267 hangar.

“It feels great to have our son back home after all this time,” said Elizabeth Canales.

During deployment, the two units with MAG-39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, functioned as the air combat element for the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

MALS-39 provided logistical support to aviation detachments and security elements while deployed with the 15th MEU.

“Marines from our unit really kept the birds flying in their day-to-day operations, and they continually provided the needed support for the MEU to function,” said Sgt. Maj. William Skiles, sergeant major, HMLA-267.

“These Marines worked hard 24-hours-a-day to keep the mission going and kill the enemy,” Skiles continued.

Several squadron members made hamburgers and other refreshments for returning Marines as troops shared experiences from their deployment.

“During the deployment, many of our junior Marines worked tirelessly to get their mission
done, and they kept these helicopters flying,” Skiles said.

The hangar was filled with the sounds of joyous families, which quickly dissipated as Marines left with their loved ones to enjoy the long-awaited break after the deployment.

http://www.marines.mil/marinelink/mcn2000.nsf/0/2A707B6D3DCCE6B2852572F300686DAB?opendocument