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Ugly Angels extend their legs, thanks to VMGR-152

USMC News

Submitted by: MCB Hawaii
Story Identification Number: 200373181915
Story by Sgt. Alexis R. Mulero

BARBERS POINT, ISLAND OF OAHU, Hawaii(June 17, 2003) -- BARBERS POINT - Twenty Marines from Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 362 carried out some infrequent training while en route to transport more than 75 U.S. Marines and Australian soldiers from the "Big Island" into the airfield at MCB Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay.

With the assistance of one KC-130 Hercules transport aircraft from Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152, five CH-53D Sea Stallion helicopters from HMH-362 conducted a rapid ground refueling exercise here, June 17.

"The Marines are unfamiliar with this type of exercise because there are no KC-130s Hercules transport aircraft in Hawaii," said Capt Lee K. Clare, fragmentary officer, Marine Air Group 24.

During the rapid ground refueling exercise, the KC-130 - predominantly used for aircraft refueling - landed, but didn't shut off its engines. Equipped with a special hose system that contains three to four fueling stations, the KC-130 proceeded to fuel the helicopters while they were running.

"They're a mobile gas station that allow aircraft to travel twice the distance than it would travel on one tank of gas," said Clare. "When we deploy, we train with other groups that have fixed wing assets, and we have to be ready to work together to accomplish all of the Marine Corps missions. This training really lets us build our comfort level."

During any refueling exercise, risks are assumed, but for the most part the operation is safe, said Lance Cpl. Marcus Whiffill, crewman, VMGR-152.

"The crew and pilots are well-trained to handle any problems that may arise," said Whiffill. "Also, there are fire extinguishers at each of the fueling stations."

Afterward, the Ugly Angels delivered the service members onto the airfield, and the allies were able to raid it and complete their mission of seizing the airfield, flawlessly.

"It is aerial support like the kind provided today that allows ground allied forces to achieve any mission tasked to them," said a soldier from 1st Royal Australian Regiment.