Adopt-a-Unit Program

Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369

The purpose of the Adopt-a-Unit program is to bond local communities with brave servicemen and women who protect and 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. As part of this program, the City of Vista has adopted HMLA-369, stationed at Camp Pendleton. The City 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 short notice world wide deployment. 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.

Helping on the Home Front

There are many ways you can help support the squadron and their family members and all are deeply appreciated by the troops:

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 or certificates for service donations would 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.