Posted for Ray Norton

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Squadron prepares for Iraq
Story by: Cpl. Glen R. Springstead

NAVAL STATION NORFOLK, Norfolk Va. (July 29, 2004) -- A local group of Marines and sailors are suiting up and preparing to deploy in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF).

Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron-774, a reserve unit based out of Norfolk, Va. has been activated and is scheduled to deploy to the Middle East at the end of the summer to support ongoing efforts in the “War Against Terror.”

“We first heard we were being activated in November 2003,” said Lt. Col. John McGonagle, squadron commanding officer, HMM-774. “We are a reserve squadron, so we have always been preparing to be called up in time of need.”

The squadron’s deployment preparation consists of tactics and maintenance procedures, and operations in a desert environment training to name a few.

The mission of HMM-774 is to maintain combat readiness and provide support to the 4th Marine Aircraft Wing. The HMM-774 "Wild Goose" fly the CH-46E ‘Sea Knight’ helicopter, which are maintained by Marine Air Group-42, Detachment B and reserve unit personnel. Missions include tactical airlifts, medical evacuation operations (MEDEVAC) and helicopter support team training.

Accordingly A normal Marine CH-46E helicopter squadron consists of 12 aircraft and approximately 175-200 Marines and sailors.

The squadron will be supporting the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force in Iraq and according to McGonagle, his Marines are eager to offer any support necessary.

The reserve squadron is stranger to activations; the Marines were mobilized back in 1991 to provide support during Operation Desert Storm.

While there is no telling how long they will be supporting the OIF efforts, the Marines and sailors have been activated for active duty for a period of 2 years, and plan on supporting OIF during that time.

“Morale is high; we have an outstanding group of Marines and sailors that look forward to supporting the Marine Corps, our country, and the Iraqi people during this time of need,” McGonagle said.

Whatever their missions will be, it is certain that the Marines and sailors of HMM-774 will be ready to tackle them in true Marine Corps fashion, according to McGonagle.

“The Marine Corps Reserve is trained, and expected to be ready to go anywhere in the world during a time of need to augment and reinforce our active duty units; HMM-774 stands ready to answer the call,” McGonagle concluded.