Lt. Col. Nicholas A. Morris relinquished command of Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 461 to Lt. Col. Wade J. Dunford during a change of command ceremony at the HMH-461 flight line, Oct. 18.

Morris’ first duty station was Marine Corps Air Station New River in 1997, where he served as a pilot for Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron (HMHT) 302.

“HMH-461 has done a lot,” said Col. James Jenkins, commanding officer of Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 29. “Lt. Col. Morris has done a fantastic job and that is a testament to your professionalism and common sense. You should be very proud.”

Morris addressed the friends and family who have worked alongside him and the squadron as a whole. He thanked them for the support that he received throughout the years and expressed his gratitude for the hard work of the Marines in the squadron.

“This (squadron) has done many great things,” said Morris. “Not only while deployed but in garrison as well.”

Under his command, the Marines of HMH-461 donated more than $17,000 of their own money toward the Habitat for Humanity campaign, as well as a vast number of toys to Toys for Tots, said Morris.

“I welcome Lt. Col. Dunford and his wife Renee,” said Morris. “I know you will do an outstanding job and you are well prepared.”

Dunford is not new to the squadron, serving as the aircraft maintenance officer and as the executive officer of HMH-461.

“The mission of an HMH squadron is to provide timely and effective CH-53E helicopter combat assault transport of heavy equipment, personnel and supplies, on order to support the Marine Air-Ground Task Force and other units, as directed,” said Dunford. “I am excited to work with the squadron and get into the daily grind.”

Having accepted the squadron colors, Dunford addressed HMH-461 for the first time as commanding officer.

“I’m honored to have an opportunity to serve with you,” said Dunford.

“I thank you for your special trust and confidence in allowing me to take command of HMH-461,” said Dunford. “This squadron’s motto ‘Mission First, People Always’ is something I hold very near and dear to my heart. I look forward to the road ahead. I will carry the squadron colors proudly and promise to do right by it.”