USMC HMLA-267 Stingers OD Patch — USMC Embroidered Patch
The Stingers — Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267
HMLA-267 "Stingers" traces its lineage to 15 February 1944 when it was first activated at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, as Marine Observation Squadron 5 (VMO-5). Originally known as the "Black Aces," the squadron saw action in the Pacific Theater during World War II, participating in the Iwo Jima campaign before deploying to Sasebo, Japan, for occupation duty. The Stingers have since evolved into one of the Marine Corps' premier light attack helicopter squadrons, based at MCAS Camp Pendleton under MAG-39 and the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing.
Reactivated during the Vietnam War in December 1966, the squadron deployed to South Vietnam providing aerial reconnaissance and close air support. Through multiple redesignations—VMO-5, HMA-267, HML-267—the squadron steadily expanded its capabilities. In 1987, it was redesignated HMLA-267 and received its first AH-1W SuperCobras, becoming the first Marine squadron to operate the type. The Stingers have since deployed extensively across the globe, including Operations Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom. During OIF alone, HMLA-267 flew over 2,100 combat flight hours and 1,400 combat sorties in just three weeks supporting I Marine Expeditionary Force operations throughout Iraq.
In April 2012, HMLA-267 became the first HMLA to completely transition to both the AH-1Z Viper and the UH-1Y Venom, ending decades of SuperCobra operations. The squadron was recognized with the John P. Giguere Award as Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron of the Year in both 2003 and 2017, underscoring its reputation as a consistently elite unit.
Perfect For: Veterans of HMLA-267/HML-267/VMO-5, AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom aircrews, Marines of MAG-39 and 3rd MAW, OIF and OEF rotary-wing veterans, and collectors of Marine attack aviation heritage.
This subdued OD patch honors the Stingers' eight decades of service—from the beaches of Iwo Jima to the skies over Iraq and Afghanistan, always ready "Any Time, Any Where."
