Marine Aircraft Group 40

Story by Staff Sgt. Roman Yurek

CAMP BASTION, Helmand province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 772 "Hustlers" transferred control of air support for Marine Aircraft Group 40, Marine Expeditionary Brigade-Afghanistan, to HMH-462 "Heavy Haulers" during a transfer of authority ceremony here, Nov. 16.

The Hustlers, commanded by Lt. Col. Michael Ulses, were one of two heavy lift helicopter squadrons operating for MAG-40. After a six month deployment, Ulses transferred his squadron's authority to Lt. Col. Ronnie Carson, the commanding officer of the Heavy Haulers.

"The transition went well and we have built a strong foundation for you," said Ulses as he addressed the Heavy Hauler Marines.

Ulses and the rest of the Hustlers arrived in Afghanistan in June from their home base of Naval Air Station Willow Grove Joint Reserve Base, Pa. Unlike most Marine Corps units, these reserve Marines will return to homes spread out across the U.S.

Like many squadrons, this was the Hustlers' first deployment to Afghanistan. While training for deployment, the Hustlers were outfitted with new aircraft. This added extra duties to the squadron as they completed training and had to prepare the new aircraft for deployment.

"The Marines handled this exceptionally well, with a well-thought-out and -executed plan, and an unbelievable amount of motivation," said Ulses "All key tasks were completed with everything being ready on time and transported to theater."

As the Hustlers begin their journey home, the Heavy Haulers will pick up exactly where their counterparts left off.

With more than 50 years of service, the Heavy Haulers are no stranger to high operational tempos. They earned the name Heavy Haulers in 1963 when the squadron became honorary members of the Havasupai Indian Tribe in Arizona after providing needed supplies to the tribe.

Following the support of the Havasupai tribe, the squadron conducted operations in Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, Japan and the Philippines. From 2003-2005, the squadron supported operations in both Iraq and Afghanistan.

"This was the best transition we have ever received," said Carson, adding that MAG-40 can expect the same professional work ethic that the Heavy Haulers are known for.

Associated Images

Control Panel