USMC Helicopter Squadrons
$12.00
Only 81 items left in stock
Bulk Patch Pricing
Embroidered
Minimum order: 25
25-49: $6.00 each
50-99: $5.00 each
100-199: $4.00 each
200-299: $3.00 each
300+: $2.50 each
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HMM-263 Routine Extract My Ass Patch — Embroidered Patch
Nothing in Vietnam Was Routine
"Routine extraction" was the biggest lie ever briefed in a mission brief. HMM-263's "Routine Extract My Ass" patch cuts through the sanitized language of operations orders and tells the truth — every extraction in combat was a calculated gamble with lives on the line. This patch is pure helicopter crew humor, born from the reality that the only routine thing about a combat extract was the danger.
HMM-263 — the Thunder Chickens — served two combat tours in Vietnam, participating in over twenty-four named combat operations from their base at Marble Mountain. The squadron flew UH-34s during their first tour beginning in October 1965, then returned with CH-46Ds in January 1969. HMM-263's most significant early operation was Beau Charger in May 1967, which was the first official incursion by U.S. forces into the DMZ — a strongly opposed landing that resulted in heavy casualties and significant aircraft damage. Squadron member Raymond M. Clausen Jr. earned the Medal of Honor for his actions in January 1970. Every extraction the Thunder Chickens flew was a test of skill and nerve, no matter what the operations order called it.
Perfect For:
HMM-263 veterans, Vietnam helicopter aircrew, Marine medium helicopter community, combat humor enthusiasts, Marble Mountain veterans, and military morale patch collectors
If it was routine, they wouldn't have sent us.
If you want to swap patches on/off gear, choose hook & loop (velcro). If you’re attaching permanently to uniforms or fabric, choose sew-on. If you want quick application on compatible fabric, choose iron-on / heat seal (when offered). Backing options are shown on the page and update based on the variant you select.
Size is shown on the product page and updates with the variant you select (example: 3"). If you’re mounting on a hat or small panel, choose smaller sizes; for plate carriers and display boards, larger sizes fit better.
If the product is officially licensed, it will say “Officially Licensed” in the title and/or in the product details. If it doesn’t, it’s still a legitimate product—just not part of a licensed program.
Yes. If you see a note like “bulk reruns available,” that means we can support group orders or reruns. If you don’t see it, contact us with the unit/squadron and quantity and we’ll confirm options.
Yes—custom solutions are available (patches, name tags, lanyards, apparel). Use the custom request page and include artwork, size, backing preference, and quantity.
