# VMM-261

> Mediated Wiki article. Canonical URL: https://mediated.wiki/source/VMM-261
> Markdown URL: https://mediated.wiki/source/VMM-261.md
> Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VMM-261
> Source revision: 1304235821
> License: Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/)

Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 261 VMM-261 insignia Active 5 April 1951 – present Country United States Branch USMC Type Medium-lift Tiltrotor Squadron Role Conduct air operations in support of the Fleet Marine Forces Part of Marine Aircraft Group 26 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing Garrison/HQ Marine Corps Air Station New River Nickname "Raging Bulls" Mottos "First in, Last out" Tail Code EM Mascot Bull Engagements Vietnam War Operation Urgent Fury Operation Sharp Edge Operation Desert Storm Operation Iraqi Freedom Operation Enduring Freedom * Operation Cobra's Anger Commanders Current commander LtCol Colin J. Culkin

Military unit

**Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 261** (VMM-261) is a [United States Marine Corps](/source/United_States_Marine_Corps) [tiltrotor](/source/Tiltrotor) squadron consisting of [MV-22 Osprey](/source/MV-22_Osprey) transport aircraft. The squadron, known as the "Raging Bulls", is based at [Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) New River](/source/Marine_Corps_Air_Station_New_River), [North Carolina](/source/North_Carolina) and typically falls under the command of [Marine Aircraft Group 26](/source/Marine_Aircraft_Group_26) (MAG-26) and the [2nd Marine Aircraft Wing](/source/2nd_Marine_Aircraft_Wing) (2nd MAW). They were the fourth squadron in the Marine Corps to transition to the MV-22 Osprey.

## Mission

Provide [assault support](/source/Assault_support) of [combat troops](/source/Troop#General_military_usage), supplies and equipment during [amphibious operations](/source/Amphibious_assault) and subsequent operations ashore. Routinely, VMM squadrons provide the foundation for an aviation combat element (ACE) of any level [Marine Air-Ground Task Force](/source/Marine_Air-Ground_Task_Force) (MAGTF) mission that may include conventional assault support tasks and special operations.

## History

### Early years

Marine Helicopter Transport Squadron 261 (**HMR-261**) was commissioned on 5 April 1951 at [Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point](/source/Marine_Corps_Air_Station_Cherry_Point), North Carolina.[1] From 1951 through 1956, HMR-261 carried the [tail code](/source/Tail_code) of "HM." Since then, it has carried the [tail code](/source/Tail_code) of "EM" on its helicopters. From 20 January to 28 February 1952 the squadron participated in Operations HELEX I and II to demonstrate ship to shore assault helicopter operations operating from [USS *Siboney*](/source/USS_Siboney_(CVE-112)).[2]

In 1954, the squadron moved from MCAS Cherry Point to MCAS New River, North Carolina. In October 1954, HMR-261 embarked its [HRS](/source/Sikorsky_H-19_Chickasaw) helicopters on the aircraft carrier [USS *Saipan*](/source/USS_Saipan_(CVL-48)) and sailed for [Haiti](/source/Haiti) where they flew humanitarian assistance/disaster relief missions following [Hurricane Hazel](/source/Hurricane_Hazel). In December 1956, the squadron was re-designated Marine Helicopter Transport Squadron (Light) 261 **(HMR(L)-261)**. In February 1957 the squadron began receiving the [HUS-1 Seahorse](/source/H-34_Choctaw) to replace its [HRS-1 helicopters](/source/H-19_Chickasaw).[3] The squadron was the first helicopter squadron to conduct troop lifts on the East coast. In 1961, the squadron was re-designated Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 261 (**HMM-261**). The squadron was, by then, flying the UH-34D helicopter. During July and August 1961 the squadron was deployed on [USS *Thetis Bay*](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=USS_Thetis_Bay_(LPH-1)&action=edit&redlink=1) in the [South China Sea](/source/South_China_Sea).[4]

Squadron UH-34s on [USS *Princeton*](/source/USS_Princeton_(CV-37)), March 1960

By April 1962 the squadron was assigned to [Marine Aircraft Group 16](/source/Marine_Aircraft_Group_16) (MAG-16) based at [Marine Corps Air Station Futenma](/source/Marine_Corps_Air_Station_Futenma) on [Okinawa](/source/Okinawa_Island).[5] The squadron had been participating in an exercise in the Philippines when it received orders to exchange helicopters with [HMM-362](/source/HMM-362) operating from [USS *Princeton*](/source/USS_Princeton_(CV-37)). On 15 April HMM-362 went ashore at [Sóc Trăng Airfield](/source/S%C3%B3c_Tr%C4%83ng_Airfield) in the [Mekong Delta](/source/Mekong_Delta), [South Vietnam](/source/South_Vietnam) to become the first Operation *Shufly* squadron and the squadron became the [Special Landing Force](/source/Special_Landing_Force) (SLF) helicopter squadron.[6][7]

On 15 May 1962 in response to the defeat of [Royal Lao Army](/source/Royal_Lao_Army) in the [Battle of Luang Namtha](/source/Battle_of_Luang_Namtha) in early May by [People's Army of Vietnam](/source/People's_Army_of_Vietnam) and [Pathet Lao](/source/Pathet_Lao) forces, it appeared that a communist invasion of northern [Thailand](/source/Thailand) was imminent and the [Kennedy Administration](/source/Kennedy_Administration) ordered US combat forces into Thailand to deter any attack. On 18 May the SLF went ashore at [Bangkok](/source/Bangkok) and then moved to [Udorn Royal Thai Air Force Base](/source/Udorn_Royal_Thai_Air_Force_Base).[8] On 25 June the squadron was replaced at Udorn by [HMM-162](/source/HMM-162).[9]

During October 1962, HMM-261 was embarked aboard [USS *Boxer*](/source/USS_Boxer_(CV-21)) and subsequently USS *Thetis Bay* for support during the [Cuban Blockade](/source/Cuban_Missile_Crisis).[10] Returning to MCAF New River, HMM 261 was deployed to the [southern United States](/source/Southern_United_States) during the [Civil Rights Movement](/source/Civil_Rights_Movement) to support freedom marches in the spring of 1963. Returning to MAG-26, MCAF New River, HMM-261 prepared to stand down for subsequent transfer of its colors to the [Western Pacific](/source/Western_Pacific_Ocean).

### Vietnam War

Squadron UH-34s refuel at Da Nang Air Base, July 1965

On 8 June 1963, the squadron began serving as the [Operation Shufly](/source/Operation_Shufly) squadron at [Da Nang Air Base](/source/Da_Nang_Air_Base), South Vietnam.[11] In mid-July the squadron suffered its first aircraft loss in a non-fatal accident 37 miles (60 km) southwest of Da Nang.[12] On 16 September another UH-34D was destroyed in a non-fatal crash 25 miles (40 km) west of [Huế](/source/Hu%E1%BA%BF).[13] On 2 October the squadron was relieved by [HMM-361](/source/HMM-361), it had achieved 5,288 combat flying hours and 11,406 sorties.[14]

In 1964, the squadron, deployed aboard [USS *Iwo Jima*](/source/USS_Iwo_Jima_(LPH-2)) as part of the Ready Landing Force in the Western Pacific, participating in training exercises in the Philippine Islands and [Taiwan](/source/Taiwan) and was afterwards shore-based at [MCAS Futenma](/source/MCAS_Futenma), [Okinawa](/source/Okinawa_Island) until returning the squadron colors to MCAF New River. The squadron again departed MCAS New River on May 18, 1965 finally arriving at [Kadena Air Base](/source/Kadena_Air_Base) in early June.[15] On June 21, 1965 the squadron was flown to [Da Nang Air Base](/source/Da_Nang_Air_Base) where it replaced [HMM-163](/source/HMM-163) and was assigned to [Marine Aircraft Group 16](/source/Marine_Aircraft_Group_16) (MAG-16).[16] On August 12, the squadron participated in Operation Midnight the first nighttime helicopter assault.[17]From 18 August the squadron supported [Operation Starlite](/source/Operation_Starlite).[18] At the end of August, MAG-16 moved to the newly completed [Marble Mountain Air Facility](/source/Marble_Mountain_Air_Facility) east of Da Nang.[19][15] On 10 October the squadron was assigned as the SLF helicopter squadron on [USS *Valley Forge*](/source/USS_Valley_Forge_(CV-45)).[20] On 30 November the SLF conducted Operation Dagger Thrust.[21] In December the squadron supported [Operation Harvest Moon](/source/Operation_Harvest_Moon) transporting Marines and [Army of the Republic of Vietnam](/source/Army_of_the_Republic_of_Vietnam) (ARVN) troops.[22]

On 5 January 1966 the squadron came ashore from SLF duty.[23] While In early March the squadron supported [Operation Utah](/source/Operation_Utah).[24] On 26 May the squadron left South Vietnam.[25] During its 1965-66 tour HMM-261 flew 11,859 combat hours, [MEDEVAC-ed](/source/Medevac) 2,315 wounded, flew 38,090 combat sorties, ferried 47,522 troops into battle and expended 32,610 rounds of ammunition.

### 1966-1970s

In 1966, the squadron returned to New River again. During the late 1960s, the squadron accepted their first [CH-46 Sea Knight](/source/Boeing_Vertol_CH-46_Sea_Knight) helicopters. The squadron later flew an updated model of the same helicopter, the CH-46E. Throughout the 1970s, the squadron participated in various training exercises in the Atlantic, Mediterranean, and Caribbean regions. It was during this time that the squadron added to their nickname and became the "Raging Bulls".

### 1980s

"Elvis 01" a CH-46E of HMM-261 awaits the loading of Army Rangers on Grenada during Operation Urgent Fury, October 1983.

In 1982, the squadron deployed to [Beirut, Lebanon](/source/Beirut%2C_Lebanon). In October 1983, the squadron had just departed Naval Base Norfolk aboard [USS *Guam*](/source/USS_Guam_(LPH-9)) heading toward Beirut, but received word to divert to the Caribbean for the invasion of [Grenada](/source/Grenada), codenamed [Operation Urgent Fury](/source/Operation_Urgent_Fury). There, the squadron provided the only helicopters for the initial landings of Marines and subsequent operations for the entire joint task force until Army helicopters arrived on the third day of action. [Delta Force](/source/Delta_Force) had arrived by Army helicopters as part of the initial assault, but after day one all the Army helicopters were unavailable due combat damage. While providing close air support to Army forces, two [AH-1T Cobras](/source/Bell_AH-1_Cobra) were shot down resulting in three squadron pilots being killed. Later one CH-46 was damaged beyond repair during the successful rescue of several hundred American students at the Medical School's Grand Anse Campus, while inserting Rangers of 2nd Battalion, [75th Ranger Regiment](/source/75th_Ranger_Regiment). Following this operation, the squadron resumed its mission to continue to Beirut, to relieve [24th Marine Amphibious Unit](/source/24th_Marine_Expeditionary_Unit) which had endured the [bombing of the Marine barracks](/source/1983_Beirut_barracks_bombings). While stationed off Beirut, the squadron conducted a variety of missions in support of the [22nd Marine Amphibious Unit](/source/22nd_Marine_Expeditionary_Unit) located ashore, U.S. [6th Fleet](/source/United_States_Sixth_Fleet) and the [Department of State](/source/United_States_Department_of_State) (flying diplomats to/from the various meetings and evacuating over 800 American and Lebanese citizens to safety.)

### The Gulf War and the 1990s

In 1990, the squadron took part in [Operation Sharp Edge](/source/Operation_Sharp_Edge), which consisted of the evacuation and protection of American citizens in [Liberia](/source/Liberia). In January 1991, following a quick turnaround in New River, the squadron deployed to [Saudi Arabia](/source/Saudi_Arabia) for [Operation Desert Shield](/source/Gulf_War#Operation_Desert_Shield) and [Operation Desert Storm](/source/Operation_Desert_Storm). With the ground war in full swing, the squadron flew numerous medevac and assault support missions in support of [2nd Marine Division](/source/2nd_Marine_Division_(United_States)). The squadron returned home to New River on 13 May 1991.

On 15 April 1997 the squadron prepared for a pending Noncombatant Evacuation Operation (NEO) in the country of [Zaire](/source/Zaire), leaving behind a detachment of four CH-46s and two UH-1Ns to board [USS *Ponce*](/source/USS_Ponce_(LPD-15)). The 22nd MEU Forward, which included HMM-261 (REIN) Det. A entered the [Mediterranean Sea](/source/Mediterranean_Sea) to cover the 22nd MEU's commitments. During the deployment, the main body of the 22nd MEU participated in two major operations: [Operation Guardian Retrieval](/source/Operation_Guardian_Retrieval), operating out of [Brazzaville](/source/Brazzaville), [Congo](/source/Republic_of_Congo); and [Operation Noble Obelisk](/source/Operation_Noble_Obelisk), in [Freetown, Sierra Leone](/source/Freetown%2C_Sierra_Leone), which resulted in the evacuation of more than 2,500 American citizens and foreign nationals. Meanwhile, HMM-261 (REIN)'s Det. A participated in [Operation Silver Wake](/source/Operation_Silver_Wake) in [Tirana, Albania](/source/Tirana%2C_Albania). A year later, in October 1998, the squadron was called upon to help provide [hurricane](/source/Hurricane_Georges) relief in [Puerto Rico](/source/Puerto_Rico).

### Global War on Terror

In July 2002, the MEU was called upon to conduct operations in support of [Operation Enduring Freedom](/source/Operation_Enduring_Freedom) (OEF). Once off the coast of [Pakistan](/source/Pakistan), the MEU continued to plan for interdiction operations in [Afghanistan](/source/Afghanistan). Concurrently [AV-8s](/source/McDonnell_Douglas_AV-8B_Harrier_II) flew the MEU’s first reconnaissance flights over the country. Advanced parties were dispatched into Pakistan to conduct liaison with host nation agencies.

2003 brought about pre-deployment planning for [Operation Iraqi Freedom](/source/Operation_Iraqi_Freedom) II. Upon arriving in the [Persian Gulf](/source/Persian_Gulf), the squadron flew into [1st Marine Expeditionary Force](/source/1st_Marine_Expeditionary_Force)’s Area of Operation, where it was attached to the [3rd Marine Aircraft Wing](/source/3rd_Marine_Aircraft_Wing) at [Al Asad Airbase](/source/Al_Asad_Airbase). While in Iraq, HMM-261 was fully engaged in various operations in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom II. The squadron continued to perform direct support missions in the form of casualty evacuation, command and control (C&C) standby, general support, re-supply, troop movements, VIP lifts and tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel (TRAP)/Quick Reaction Force (QRF) during the day and night. In September 2004, the squadron returned to MCAS New River, where it was attached to [Marine Aircraft Group 29](/source/Marine_Aircraft_Group_29). During the deployment, HMM-261 successfully completed over 2,000 Aviation Support Requests (ASRs), transported 8,358 passengers and 815,274 lb of cargo, flew 3,058.2 hours and executed 1,941 sorties, with zero combat casualties or loss of any aircraft.

On 8 November 2005, HMM-261 (REIN) conducted their onload to [USS *Nassau*](/source/USS_Nassau_(LHA-4)) to begin their current deployment as part of the 22nd MEU. They were based at Al Asad air base in western Iraq and on their third tour in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.[26] The squadron finished its latest tour in Iraq in late March 2006, accomplishing 1,845 sorties and over 3,000 combat flight hours providing medevacs and close air support.[27]

A VMM-261 MV-22B in 2009.

In late 2007, the squadron served as the aviation combat element for the 22nd MEU. From 25 September to 11 October 2007, AV-8Bs attached to the squadron flew 70 combat missions over [Afghanistan](/source/Afghanistan) providing [aerial reconnaissance](/source/Aerial_reconnaissance), close air support and convoy escort in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.[28] Following the impact of [Cyclone Sidr](/source/Cyclone_Sidr) on 15 November 2007, helicopters from the squadron operating from [USS *Kearsarge*](/source/USS_Kearsarge_(LHD-3)) off the coast of [Bangladesh](/source/Bangladesh) in the [Bay of Bengal](/source/Bay_of_Bengal) provided [humanitarian assistance](/source/Humanitarian_assistance) to those affected by the cyclone.[29]

On 10 April 2008, the squadron transitioned to the [MV-22 Osprey](/source/MV-22_Osprey) after 42 years of flying the CH-46 Sea Knight.[30]

VMM-261 deployed to [Afghanistan](/source/Afghanistan) in November 2009 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. It marked the first deployment of the MV-22 Osprey to Afghanistan and in early December the squadron supported their first major combat operation when they lifted troops and supplies in support of [Operation Cobra's Anger](/source/Operation_Cobra's_Anger).[31]

In 2014, VMM-261 deployed to Afghanistan as the first Marine Corps casualty evacuation squadron since Operation Iraqi Freedom. Under the call sign “Elvis”, VMM-261 flew combat operations in direct support of [Marine Special Operations Command](/source/United_States_Marine_Forces_Special_Operations_Command) (MARSOC) and [International Security Assistance Force](/source/International_Security_Assistance_Force) (ISAF) within [Helmand](/source/Helmand_Province) and [Herat](/source/Herat_Province) provinces. VMM-261 was supplemented with 12 [Navy](/source/United_States_navy) [Hospital Corpsmen](/source/Hospital_corpsman) and 1 Navy [Flight Surgeon](/source/Flight_Surgeon). The unit was considered enhanced (E-CasEvac) due to the V-22 Osprey’s operational speed and distance superiority over the [US Army’s](/source/United_States_Army) [UH-60 Blackhawks](/source/Sikorsky_UH-60_Black_Hawk) (Dustoff) and [British](/source/British_Army) [CH-47 Chinooks](/source/Boeing_CH-47_Chinook). Due to increased operational range, VMM-261 was assigned medical response responsibility to ISAF casualties beyond 80 nautical miles of a Role 2 Medical Facility.[32]

From October 2023[33] to June 2024, VMM-261, reinforced with a [KC-130J](/source/KC-130J) detachment and designated as VMM-261 (REIN), filled the role of the [aviation combat element](/source/Aviation_combat_element) for [Combined Joint Task Force — Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA)](/source/Combined_Joint_Task_Force_%E2%80%93_Horn_of_Africa) on [Camp Lemonnier](/source/Camp_Lemonnier), [Djibouti](/source/Djibouti). In December 2023, all V-22s were grounded after an [Air Force](/source/Air_force) [CV-22](/source/CV-22_Osprey) crashed in Japan in November 2023.[34] Despite four months of reduced V-22 flight status, VMM-261 (REIN) logged more than 3,000 flight hours, transported over 2 million pounds worth of cargo, and moved thousands of passengers while in the [Horn of Africa](/source/Horn_of_Africa).[35]

## Notable accidents

See also: [Accidents and incidents involving the V-22 Osprey](/source/Accidents_and_incidents_involving_the_V-22_Osprey)

On 11 April 2012, a squadron MV-22 crashed near [Agadir](/source/Agadir), [Morocco](/source/Morocco), during a joint training exercise after taking off from [USS *Iwo Jima*](/source/USS_Iwo_Jima_(LHD-7)). Two Marines were killed and two others were seriously injured, and the aircraft was lost. A Marine Corps investigation later deemed the crash was due to pilot error, not a mechanical or safety problem.[36][37][38][39][40]

## See also

- [List of active United States Marine Corps aircraft squadrons](/source/List_of_active_United_States_Marine_Corps_aircraft_squadrons)

- [United States Marine Corps Aviation](/source/United_States_Marine_Corps_Aviation)

## Citations

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTERawlins1976105_1-0)** [Rawlins 1976](#CITEREFRawlins1976), pp. 105.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTERawlins197660_2-0)** [Rawlins 1976](#CITEREFRawlins1976), pp. 60.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTERawlins197679_3-0)** [Rawlins 1976](#CITEREFRawlins1976), pp. 79.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFails19789_4-0)** [Fails 1978](#CITEREFFails1978), pp. 9.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFails197829_5-0)** [Fails 1978](#CITEREFFails1978), pp. 29.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFails197831–32_6-0)** [Fails 1978](#CITEREFFails1978), pp. 31–32.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEWhitlow197760_7-0)** [Whitlow 1977](#CITEREFWhitlow1977), pp. 60.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEWhitlow197789_8-0)** [Whitlow 1977](#CITEREFWhitlow1977), pp. 89.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEWhitlow1977180_9-0)** [Whitlow 1977](#CITEREFWhitlow1977), pp. 180.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEFails197834_10-0)** [Fails 1978](#CITEREFFails1978), pp. 34.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEWhitlow1977116_11-0)** [Whitlow 1977](#CITEREFWhitlow1977), pp. 116.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEWhitlow1977117_12-0)** [Whitlow 1977](#CITEREFWhitlow1977), pp. 117.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEWhitlow1977120–121_13-0)** [Whitlow 1977](#CITEREFWhitlow1977), pp. 120–121.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEWhitlow1977120_14-0)** [Whitlow 1977](#CITEREFWhitlow1977), pp. 120.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-ValleyForge_15-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-ValleyForge_15-1) *USS Valley Forge Cruise Book (1965-1966)*. 1966. p. 130.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEShulimson1978237_16-0)** [Shulimson 1978](#CITEREFShulimson1978), pp. 237.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEShulimson1978165_17-0)** [Shulimson 1978](#CITEREFShulimson1978), pp. 165.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEShulimson197871–81_18-0)** [Shulimson 1978](#CITEREFShulimson1978), pp. 71–81.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEShulimson1978150_19-0)** [Shulimson 1978](#CITEREFShulimson1978), pp. 150.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEShulimson1978230_20-0)** [Shulimson 1978](#CITEREFShulimson1978), pp. 230.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEShulimson1978240_21-0)** [Shulimson 1978](#CITEREFShulimson1978), pp. 240.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEShulimson1978105–106_22-0)** [Shulimson 1978](#CITEREFShulimson1978), pp. 105–106.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEShulimson1982297_23-0)** [Shulimson 1982](#CITEREFShulimson1982), pp. 297.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEShulimson1982110_24-0)** [Shulimson 1982](#CITEREFShulimson1982), pp. 110.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-FOOTNOTEShulimson1982347_25-0)** [Shulimson 1982](#CITEREFShulimson1982), pp. 347.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-26)** Milks, GySgt Keith A. (9 February 2006). ["Phrogs continue to soar above Iraq"](http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/mcn2000.nsf/main5/40203C0D9C19E87D85257110005CDA3E?opendocument). *Marine Corps News*. 22nd MEU, United States Marine Corps. Story ID#: 200629115411.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-27)** Miller, LCpl Peter R. (24 March 2006). ["'Raging Bulls' depart Iraq, head back to sea"](http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/mcn2000.nsf/main5/2E2AED9B7F08407D8525713B0028EA48?opendocument). *Marine Corps News*. 22nd MEU, United States Marine Corps. Story ID#: 200632422654.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-28)** Press Release # 1106-07-1411 (31 October 2007). ["22nd MEU (SOC) jets support combat operations in Afghanistan"](https://web.archive.org/web/20071113195545/http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/mcn2000.nsf/releaseview/8822CA656BC329F98525738B00696A1E?opendocument). United States Marine Corps. Archived from [the original](http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/mcn2000.nsf/releaseview/8822CA656BC329F98525738B00696A1E?opendocument) on 13 November 2007. Retrieved 30 November 2007.{{[cite web](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Cite_web)}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list ([link](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:CS1_maint:_numeric_names:_authors_list))

1. **[^](#cite_ref-29)** ["22nd MEU (SOC) ramps up relief operations in Bangladesh"](https://web.archive.org/web/20071213021419/http://www.usmc.mil/22ndmeu/HA_Ops/Releases_relief_ops.htm). 22nd MEU. 23 November 2007. Archived from [the original](http://www.usmc.mil/22ndmeu/HA_Ops/Releases_relief_ops.htm) on 13 December 2007. Retrieved 30 November 2007.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-30)** ["Corps gets new Osprey squadron"](http://www.jdnews.com/news/squadron_56019___article.html/command_bianca.html). JDNews.com. 11 April 2008. Retrieved 25 May 2008.[*[permanent dead link](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Link_rot)*]

1. **[^](#cite_ref-31)** [MV-22 and ABV Meet Expectations](http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_channel.jsp?channel=defense&id=news/dti/2010/02/01/DT_02_01_2010_p41-197406.xml&headline=MV-22%20and%20ABV%20Meet%20Expectations)[*[permanent dead link](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Link_rot)*]

1. **[^](#cite_ref-32)** Ostroska, Jessica (8 May 2014). ["MARINE NCO DISCUSSES MISSION, SETS EXAMPLE FOR JUNIOR MARINES"](https://www.marines.mil/News/News-Display/Article/535316/marine-nco-discusses-mission-sets-example-for-junior-marines/). *Marines.mil*. United States Marine Corps. Retrieved 10 November 2021.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-33)** ["VMM 364 transfers authority to VMM 261"](https://www.hoa.africom.mil/article/25529/vmm-364-transfers-authority-to-vmm-261). *www.hoa.africom.mil*. Retrieved 15 May 2025.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-34)** ["NAVAIR returns V-22 Osprey to flight status"](https://www.navair.navy.mil/news/NAVAIR-returns-V-22-Osprey-flight-status/Fri-03082024-0553). *NAVAIR*. 8 March 2024. Retrieved 15 May 2025.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-35)** Macera, John (10 June 2024). ["VMM-164 assumes authority of Marine tiltrotor mission"](https://www.hoa.africom.mil/article/25913/vmm-164-assumes-authority-of-marine-tiltrotor-mission). *Combined Joint Task Force Horn of Africa*. Retrieved 15 May 2025.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-36)** Schemm, Paul (Associated Press). ["2 US Marines killed, 2 injured in Morocco."](https://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hVUjgaK2sfgf85_Q8LZ1-O5z7iKA?docId=44ab37ab74924ac7930a1e56813fe56c)[*[dead link](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Link_rot)*] *Google News*, 11 April 2012. Retrieved: 12 April 2012.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-37)** Majumdar, Dave. ["Two killed in USMC MV-22 accident in Morocco."](http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/two-killed-in-usmc-mv-22-accident-in-morocco-370618/) *Flight International*, 11 April 2012. Retrieved: 13 April 2012.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-bno_38-0)** ["Two U.S. Marines killed in Morocco helicopter crash"](http://newstro.com/article/two-u-s-marines-killed-in-morocco-helicopter-crash.html) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20120415195808/http://newstro.com/article/two-u-s-marines-killed-in-morocco-helicopter-crash.html) 15 April 2012 at the [Wayback Machine](/source/Wayback_Machine) *BNO News*, 12 April 2012. Retrieved 16 April 2012.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-asn_39-0)** ["ASN Wikibase Occurrence # 144945"](http://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/wiki.php?id=144945) *[Aviation Safety Network](/source/Aviation_Safety_Network)*, 15 April 2012. Retrieved 16 April 2012.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-40)** Baldor, Lolita C. ["USMC: Morocco Osprey crash due to pilot error"](http://www.navytimes.com/news/2012/08/ap-usmc-morocco-osprey-crash-pilot-error-081612/). Retrieved 9 March 2013.

## References

- This article incorporates [public domain material](/source/Copyright_status_of_works_by_the_federal_government_of_the_United_States) from websites or documents of the [United States Marine Corps](/source/United_States_Marine_Corps).

**Bibliography**

- Fails, William R. (1978). [*Marines & Helicopters, 1962 - 1973*](https://www.usmcu.edu/Portals/218/Marines%20and%20Helicopters%201962-1973%20%20PCN%2019000307400.pdf) (PDF). History and Museums Division, Headquarters Marine Corps. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [0-7881-1818-8](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/0-7881-1818-8).

- Shulimson, Jack (1982). [*U.S. Marines in Vietnam: An Expanding War 1966*](https://www.usmcu.edu/Portals/218/US%20Marines%20in%20Vietnam%20An%20Expanding%20War%201966%20%20PCN%2019000308600.pdf) (PDF). History and Museums Division, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-1494285159](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1494285159).

- Rawlins, Eugene W. (1976). [*Marines and Helicopters 1946–1962*](https://www.usmcu.edu/Portals/218/Marines%20and%20Helicopters%201946-1962%20%20PCN%2019000306900.pdf) (PDF). History and Museums Division, Headquarters Marine Corps. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [9781500102852](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/9781500102852).

- Shulimson, Jack (1978). [*U.S. Marines in Vietnam: The Landing and the Buildup*](https://www.usmcu.edu/Portals/218/U_S_%20Marines%20in%20Vietnam_The%20Landing%20and%20the%20Buildup%201965%20%20PCN%2019000307600.pdf) (PDF). History and Museums Division, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-1494287559](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1494287559).

- Whitlow, Robert (1977). [*U.S. Marines in Vietnam:The Advisory And Combat Assistance Era, 1954–1964*](https://www.usmcu.edu/Portals/218/U_S_%20Marines%20in%20Vietnam_The%20Advisory%20and%20Combat%20Assistance%20Era%201954-1964%20%20PCN%2019000306400.pdf) (PDF). History and Museums Division, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [1494285290](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/1494285290).

## External links

- [VMM-261's official website](http://www.mag26.marines.mil/MAG26Units/VMM261.aspx) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20140830023700/http://www.mag26.marines.mil/MAG26Units/VMM261.aspx) 30 August 2014 at the [Wayback Machine](/source/Wayback_Machine)

- [Historical video of VMM-261](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O2iLGIC_3cQ)

v t e United States Marine Corps Leadership Secretary of the Navy Under Secretary of the Navy Commandant of the Marine Corps Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Military Secretary to the Commandant of the Marine Corps Marine Corps four-star generals Marine Corps three-star generals 1942–1959 2000–2009 2010–present US Congress House Armed Services Committee Seapower and Projection Forces subcommittee Senate Armed Services Committee Seapower subcommittee Major commands Organization of the Marine Corps Headquarters Marine Corps Marine Forces Command II Marine Expeditionary Force Marine Forces Pacific I Marine Expeditionary Force III Marine Expeditionary Force Marine Forces Reserve Fleet Marine Force Atlantic Pacific Marine Corps Combat Development Command Training & Education Command (TECOM) United States Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory Marine Corps Systems Command Auxiliary Marine Corps Cyber Auxiliary Structure Marine Air–Ground Task Force Bases Battalions Regiments Brigades Divisions MEF/Corps Marine aviation Marine Expeditionary Unit Marine Security Guard Special Operations Marine Raiders Marine Raider Regiment Recon Force Division Others: List of current formation types of the United States Marine Corps Personnel and training Personnel Rank insignia MOS Notable Marines Historical Marines Marine Astronauts Criminal Investigation Division Judge Advocate Division Chaplain of the Marine Corps Associated organizations Training Recruit Training School of Infantry Officer Candidates School The Basic School Martial Arts Program Uniforms and equipment Uniforms Awards Badges Weapons Vehicles and aircraft Individual equipment History and traditions History Culture Acronyms and terms Birthday Color Sergeant of the Marine Corps Eagle, Globe, and Anchor Flag Marine Band Drum and Bugle Corps Horse Marines Marine One Color Guard Silent Drill Platoon White House Sentries Service Numbers Marine Corps War Memorial Marine Detachments "Marines' Hymn" Oorah History Division National Museum Raising the Flag on Iwo Jima Rifleman's Creed Semper Fidelis march History of Hispanics in the USMC History of women in the USMC Women's Reserve Honorary Marine Toys for Tots Gung ho Category

v t e 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 2 2nd MAW Band MAG-14 MALS-14 VMUT-2 VMA-223 VMA-231 VMGR-252 VMFA-542 MAG-26 MALS-26 MWSS-272 VMM-162 VMMT-204 VMM-261 VMM-263 VMM-266 VMM-365 MAG-29 MALS-29 HMLA-167 HMLA-269 HMHT-302 HMH-366 HMH-461 HMH-464 MAG-31 MALS-31 VMFA-115 VMFA(AW)-224 VMFA-251 VMFA-312 VMFAT-501 VMFA(AW)-533 MACG-28 MTACS-28 MWCS-28 MASS-1 MACS-2 2nd LAAD MWSS-271 MWSS-272 MWSS-273 MWSS-274

---
Adapted from the Wikipedia article [VMM-261](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VMM-261) by Wikipedia contributors ([contributor history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VMM-261?action=history)). Available under [Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/). Changes may have been made.