41 helicopters in a massive "Elephant Walk" formation

41 helicopters in a massive “Elephant Walk” formation

41 helicopters formed up across the runway at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar.

Early in the morning on June 6, 2019, seven squadrons with Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW) conducted a massive training evolution during which 26 MV-22B Ospreys and 14 CH-53E Super Stallions took flight and soared over Southern California in an awesome display of combat power and capabilities.

Image credit U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Juan Anaya

Col. Craig C. LeFlore, commanding officer of MAG-16, said:

“MAG-16 has executed our maximum flight event to demonstrate the combat readiness of our MAG and to tell the MAG-16 story. We want to test ourselves. If there is a crisis somewhere in the world, our job is to be ready to respond to that crisis at a moment’s notice.

MAG-16 is a force in readiness. This mass launch is not just for show, the majority of these aircraft will go out and conduct tactical training after their launch. Training that makes your Marines the most ready when our nation is least ready. I can’t think of a better way for the MAG to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of D-Day and the accomplishments of those who have gone before us.”

Image credit U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Juan Anaya