Free Republic

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. (July 13, 2006) -- Marine Aerial Refueler and Transport Squadron 252, the squadron that performed the first in-flight helicopter refueling more than 30 years ago, continues to play integral roles in air combat innovation and military operations throughout the world. As Lt. Col. David A. Krebs took the reigns of VMGR-252, June 30, he spoke enthusiastically about the opportunity to assume command of a squadron that is flexible enough to be deployed and stretched thin. Saturday, VMGR-252 participated in the first transatlantic MV-22 Osprey flight. Meanwhile, approximately 25 percent of the squadron is...

AL ASAD, Iraq (Oct. 13, 2005) -- As the commandos came aboard, the stern looks on their faces, hardened from months of battling insurgents, turned to smiles as they greeted Marines operating the KC-130J Hercules. Under the cover of darkness, Marines from Marine Aerial Refueler and Transport Squadron 252 flew a company of Iraqi Special Operation Forces out of Al Asad, Iraq. “We are happy to be on this bird with so many successful missions accomplished,” said the ISF company commander. “We’re glad the bird was here and on time. I think that happened because the Marines are in charge....

KC-130R Hercules detachment proves reliable force multiplierSubmitted by: 22nd MEUStory Identification #: 200461141248Story by Gunnery Sgt. Keith A. Milks CENTRAL COMMAND AREA OF OPERATIONS (June 11, 2004) -- To successfully operate from a remote location such as Forward Operating Base Ripley, deep in the heart of Afghanistan's Oruzgan province, a unit requires a steady flow of supplies and personnel. For the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), a key provider of this support since it began conducting combat operations in late April has been a small detachment of Marines and aircraft from Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR)...