In a groundbreaking series of close air support missions, the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s H-1 helicopter detachment, operating from the USS Miguel Keith (ESB 5), marked a significant milestone in U.S. Marine aviation. Conducting live-fire training from the expeditionary sea base for the first time, Venom and Viper helicopters executed day and night sorties over Idesuna Jima, west of Okinawa, Japan.
From September 25 to October 13, the aircrew, part of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 165 (Reinforced), utilized .50 caliber and 7.62 mm crew-served weapons, 2.75-inch rockets, and 20 mm semi-armor-piercing incendiary rounds, honing their combat skills. This historic deployment allowed the 15th MEU to extend its reach across the Indo-Pacific while enhancing pilot proficiency, qualifying aerial gunners, and certifying aircraft commanders.
Lt. Col. Michael J. Harper, the detachment’s officer in charge, emphasized the significance of these missions for future readiness, stating, “This training means our crewmembers will return more capable and ready to lead and train Marines.” This deployment also reinforced the Miguel Keith’s ability to support distributed aviation operations, offering increased flexibility for the Marine Corps in contested areas.
