VMM-266 third ‘Osprey’ squadron to stand-up
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION NEW RIVER, N.C. (March 23, 2007) -- Decommissioned Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 266 will officially stand-up as the newest addition to the Corps' "Osprey" arsenal, March 23, during a ceremony at the squadron's hangar.
http://www.usmc.mil/marinelink/mcn2000.nsf/main5/C6073D9F86971631852572A70045463B?opendocument
March 23, 2007
By Cpl. Jonathan A. Tabb, MCAS New River
With the Corps' gradual transition from the CH-46E "Sea Knight," to the MV-22 "Osprey," the Station has already seen the commissioning of two tiltrotor squadrons, making Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 266 the third.
According to Lt. Col. Christopher C. Seymour, commanding officer of VMM-266, the squadron's mission will be to provide assault support transport of combat troops, supplies and equipment during expeditionary, joint or combined operations.
"(Basically), we're going to provide the (Fleet Marine Force) with the operational capability to change the landscape of the battlefield, through speed, agility and increased capacities," he said.
Seymour, who has been working with the "Osprey" as the executive officer for Marine Medium Tiltrotor Training Squadron 204, said he has enjoyed his time with the aircraft and is excited to put his training and knowledge to good use as the newest "Osprey" commanding officer.
"I feel honored and humbled by the opportunity to lead Marines, particularly during this time in U.S. history," he said.
Sgt. Maj. Suzanne R. How, the squadron's sergeant major, said she's looking forward to working with the "Osprey" and the Marines of VMM-266.
"We're an 'Osprey' squadron and we're going to go to work," she said. "We have an awesome team."
Seymour said he is excited to have the opportunity to show the Marines what an operational "Osprey" squadron can do.
"I look forward to demonstrating to our Marine brothers on the ground and other supporting arms, the amazing capabilities and potential the 'Osprey' has in combat operations," he explained. "We're preparing for the delivery of the first aircraft to the 'Fighting Griffins' of VMM-266 and will begin combat core training post haste."