HMH 461st MCAS

• Origins: Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461 (HMH-461), known as "Ironhorse," was activated on 15 May 1944 during World War II. • Aircraft Evolution: The squadron has operated several aircraft, including the Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion and, more recently, the CH-53K King Stallion, the most advanced heavy-lift helicopter in the USMC inventory. • World War II Service: HMH-461 was originally formed as Marine Fighting Squadron 461 (VMF-461) and flew F4U Corsairs during WWII. • Redesignation: The squadron was redesignated several times, transitioning from a fighter to a transport squadron, and finally to a heavy helicopter squadron in 1957. • Humanitarian Missions: HMH-461 has provided disaster relief and humanitarian assistance worldwide, including operations in Haiti after the 2010 earthquake. • Combat Deployments: The squadron has participated in combat operations in the Middle East, including Operations Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom. • First CH-53K Deployment: In April 2023, HMH-461 became the first operational squadron to deploy the CH-53K King Stallion, marking a new era in Marine Corps aviation. • Home Base: The squadron is based at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) New River in North Carolina, a major hub for Marine aviation units. • SAR Missions: HMH-461 is renowned for its search and rescue (SAR) capabilities, conducting numerous life-saving missions both in peacetime and combat. • Unit Motto and Insignia: The squadron’s motto is "Ironhorse," and its insignia features a powerful warhorse, symbolizing strength, endurance, and dependability.