USMC HMLAT-303 PVC Patches — PVC Patch
Atlas — Where Marine Light Attack Pilots Are Made
Every AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom pilot in the Marine Corps passed through the doors of HMLAT-303 before they ever flew a combat mission. This PVC patch represents Atlas — the squadron that carries the weight of training the entire light attack helicopter community on its shoulders.
Marine Light Attack Helicopter Training Squadron 303 (HMLAT-303), known as "Atlas," is stationed at MCAS Camp Pendleton, California, under MAG-39 and the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. Activated on 30 April 1982 with just four officers and three enlisted Marines, Atlas has grown to over 400 Marines and 45 aircraft — the largest squadron in the Marine Corps. HMLAT-303 is the sole Marine Corps squadron tasked with training replacement, refresher, and conversion pilots for the AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom, as well as Venom crew chiefs. The squadron's nickname comes from the mythological Titan who carried the world on his shoulders — fitting for a unit that bears the responsibility of producing every light attack aviator who will fly in combat. The motto "Training the Future of Light Attack" says it all.
Perfect For:
HMLAT-303 instructors and alumni, AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom pilots, MCAS Camp Pendleton Marines, MAG-39 personnel, 3rd MAW veterans, light attack aviation enthusiasts, and anyone who trained with Atlas.
Atlas — training the future of light attack.