The Ugly Angels of VMM-326 in Vietnam

Corporal Richard Castellano Jr. takes center stage in an upcoming feature that highlights a captivating array of photographs capturing the experiences of HMM-362, famously known as the "Ugly Angels," during their impactful tour of duty in Vietnam, where they operated the UH-34S. Initially recognized as "Archie’s Angels," the squadron gained renown as the "Ugly Angels" under the leadership of Lieutenant Colonel Archie Clapp.

In April 1962, HMM-362, the first Marine aircraft unit in South Vietnam, touched down at Sóc Trăng Airfield in the Mekong Delta. Operating Sikorsky UH-34s and supported by Cessna OE-1 observation aircraft and one R4D, their mission, Operation Shufly, aimed to enhance the mobility of the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) units combating the Vietcong (VC) in the Delta.

The squadron's strategic prowess became evident from their inaugural operation on April 22, involving the airlift of soldiers from the ARVN 7th Division. As they supported various operations and pioneered the Eagle Flight concept in June, HMM-362 showcased its capabilities. By August 1, 1962, HMM-362 handed over its responsibilities to HMM-163 in Sóc Trăng.

In February 1964, the squadron assumed the role of the Shufly squadron at Da Nang Air Base, replacing HMM-361. This deployment included training Republic of Vietnam Air Force (RVNAF) pilots on UH-34s.

Embarking from Long Beach, California, on August 11, 1965, aboard the USS Princeton, the squadron's deployment to South Vietnam from September 2 to December 31, 1965, coincided with their support for Operation Harvest Moon.

Transitioning to Special Landing Force (SLF) duties aboard USS Valley Forge from January 6 to April 8, 1966, HMM-362 actively participated in operations like Double Eagle. Subsequent SLF duties, including support for Operation Deckhouse V, solidified the squadron's association with MAG-36 at Phu Bai Combat Base and later with MAG-16.

In late January 1968, HMM-362 played a pivotal role in supporting the Battle of Khe Sanh. The following months involved SLF deployments, marked by incidents such as the tragic collision during Operation Maui Peak on October 11, 1968.

Continuing SLF duties until May 25, 1969, the squadron rejoined MAG-36. After returning to shore, they supported the 9th Marine Amphibious Brigade before conducting their final UH-34 combat missions. On August 18, 1969, a ceremony at Phu Bai marked the end of their combat role. Assigned to Fleet Marine Force Atlantic on August 21, 1969, the squadron reformed at Marine Corps Air Station New River, transitioning to the CH-53 Sea Stallion, and was redesignated as HMH-362.

Throughout their service, HMM-362 endured significant losses, with a total of 33 Marines sacrificed during their years of supporting combat operations in South Vietnam. Stay tuned for more compelling content from this squadron, featuring photos curated by Richard Castellano Jr.