Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369 

On June 24, 2008, the Vista City Council "adopted" Marine Squadron 369, a helicopter squadron within the Marine Aircraft group 39, based out of Camp Pendleton, as part of the America Supporting Americans Adopt a Unit program.  The purpose of the program is to bond Americans with servicemen and women who so bravely serve our country. It is a way for communities to reach out and make a difference in the lives of Marines, both when they are deployed and when they are stationed locally, but away from their homes. The City of Vista is coordinating several ways that the community, including school classes, church groups, service organizations, and individuals, can express their appreciation for the troop's efforts. 

HMLA-369

HMLA 369 is one helicopter squadron within the Marine Aircraft Group 39. The group's mission is to provide combat ready expeditionary aviation forces, capable of world wide deployment in short notice. Known as the "Gunfighters", HMLA 369 has proven itself as the premier attack helicopter squadron in the Marine Corps by establishing a pattern of excellence few military units can emulate.

Thank you to the local businesses & organizations donating in support of HMLA 369:

• Albertsons at 1301 E. Vista Way
• American Legion
• Belching Beaver Brewery
• Boomers
• Contemporary Woman’s Club of North County
• Daughters of the American Revolution
• Dr. Bronner's
• EDCO
• Glacier Water
• The Lions Club of Vista
• Mother Earth Brew Co.
• Ms. Judy Pantazo
• Mrs. Karen Pearson
• RE/MAX Regal
• San Diego North Economic Development Council
• Urbn Pizza
• Vista Elks Lodge
• The Woman’s Club of Vista

Helping on the Home Front

There are many ways to help support the squadron and family members. All are deeply appreciated by the troops: 

Monetary Donations

To send fundraising monetary donations to HMLA 369, contact Sara Trench in the City Manager's Office at 760.643.5206.

Letter Writing Campaigns

Classes, youth groups, scout troops or others can coordinate letter writing campaigns to the Marine Unit.

Donations for Marine Family Members

These items could be donated to the Marine’s family members to help support them while the troops are overseas: 

• Gift certificates
• Prepaid phone cards
• Car repair services
• Grocery store gift cards
• Baby items (diapers, formulas)
• Toys for kids at Christmas
• School supplies for kids.

Create a Care Package

You can make a care package and include items such as, non-perishable food items (sunflower seeds, beef jerky, hot sauces, instant coffee, tea bags, cocoa); snacks such as, life-savers, mints, gum, candy, cookies; reading materials (both books and magazines); toothpaste;, soap; deodorant; writing materials; cotton socks, underwear, tee-shirts; etc. Include a note in each care package with some local news articles or comics.

Contact

City Manager's Office
Sara Trench
P: 760.643.5206

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