USMC VMM-166 SeaElk REIN Patch — USMC Embroidered Patch
The SeaElk (Reinforced) — Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 166
VMM-166 "SeaElk" holds a unique place in Marine Corps aviation history as one of the youngest medium helicopter squadrons ever activated and one that served with distinction across 36 years of operations before its deactivation under Force Design 2030. Based at MCAS Miramar, California, the SeaElk provided assault support transport as part of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, deploying as the aviation combat element for Marine Expeditionary Units around the globe.
Activated on 13 September 1985 at MCAS Tustin, California, and assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 16, HMM-166 was the youngest CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter squadron in the Marine Corps. The squadron quickly established itself as a versatile and dependable combat unit, deploying in support of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm (1990–1991), Operation Support Hope in Rwanda (1994), Operation Restore Hope in Somalia (1994), and Operation Southern Watch. In 2004, HMM-166 deployed as the aviation combat element of the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit and participated in the Battle of Najaf during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
In December 2007, as part of the 11th MEU, HMM-166 flew 29 humanitarian assistance missions over Bangladesh following Tropical Cyclone Sidr, transporting over 54,165 pounds of food and supplies and 1,875 gallons of water to affected populations. The squadron transitioned to the MV-22 Osprey on 23 June 2010, becoming VMM-166. After 36 years of faithful service spanning Desert Storm to Inherent Resolve, VMM-166 conducted its final flight on 30 June 2021 and was officially decommissioned on 1 October 2021.
Perfect For: Veterans of VMM-166/HMM-166, MV-22 and CH-46 aircrews, Marines of MAG-16 and the 11th MEU, Miramar-based Marines, and collectors honoring deactivated Marine squadrons.
This REIN patch preserves the legacy of the SeaElk—a squadron that served from the deserts of Kuwait to the humanitarian frontlines of Bangladesh, embodying the Marine Corps' expeditionary spirit until its final flight.
