HMLA-167 Warriors NVG Patch

HMLA-167 Warriors NVG Patch

Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 167 (HMLA-167) — "Warriors" — Night Vision Patch

Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 167, the Warriors, holds the rare distinction of being the only Marine helicopter squadron commissioned in a combat zone. Activated on 1 April 1968 at Marble Mountain Air Facility in the Republic of Vietnam, HML-167 flew UH-1E Hueys in sustained combat operations until June 1971 — becoming the last operating helicopter squadron in Vietnam in May 1971. Relocating to MCAS New River, the Warriors received their first AH-1T Cobras on 17 January 1984 and were redesignated HMLA-167 on 1 April 1986, becoming the first unit officially designated as a Light/Attack Squadron.

On 28 February 1995, HMLA-167 became the first HMLA on the East Coast to receive an AH-1W Super Cobra with the Night Targeting System — a revolutionary FLIR and laser designator that transformed Marine attack helicopter capabilities for night and adverse weather operations. This NVG-compatible patch commemorates the Warriors' leadership in developing and employing night attack tactics that would become standard across Marine aviation. The squadron deployed multiple times in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, simultaneously operating detachments in Iraq and Afghanistan flying night assault support and close air support missions.

Today, HMLA-167 flies the AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom from MCAS New River under MAG-29, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. The squadron's night-fighting heritage continues with modern digital targeting systems and helmet-mounted displays that trace their lineage to the pioneering Night Targeting System the Warriors first employed three decades ago.

Perfect For: HMLA-167 Warriors past and present, night attack helicopter professionals, AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom aircrew, NVG-qualified aviators, and Marine light attack aviation collectors.

The Warriors of HMLA-167 — pioneering night attack helicopter operations from Vietnam to Afghanistan, owning the night since 1968.