Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 1 (HC-1) was a helicopter squadron of the United States Navy operating several helicopter types in support of United States Pacific Fleet ships and other units. The squadron was established on 1 April 1948 and disestablished on 29 April 1994. It was nicknamed "Pacific Fleet Angels" or just "Angels".
Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 1 (HC-1) | |
---|---|
Active | 1 April 1948 – 29 April 1994 |
Country | United States of America |
Branch | |
Type | Navy Helicopter Squadron |
Size | Squadron |
Garrison/HQ | NAS North Island |
Nickname(s) | "Pacific Fleet Angels" |
Engagements | Vietnam War |
History
editEarly experience with helicopters by the Navy was developed by Helicopter Development Squadron THREE (VX-3) which operated out of Naval Air Station Lakehurst, New Jersey. This led to the creation of the service's first two designated helicopter squadrons, Helicopter Utility Squadron (HU-1) and HU-2 on 1 April 1948.[1]
As the Navy changed the scope of roles for its utility helicopter squadrons, it also re-designated them Helicopter Combat Support Squadrons. HU-1 was duly re-designated HC-1 on 1 July 1965.[2]
A detachment of HC-1 participated in Operation Desert Storm aboard USS Tarawa and during its return played a key role assisting civilians in aftermath of the 1991 Bangladesh cyclone.[2]
The squadron was disestablished on 29 April 1994.[citation needed]
Equipment
editThe squadron has operated several types during its history:
See also
editReferences
edit- ^ "History". Archived from the original on 15 September 2013.
- ^ a b Donald, David; Lake, Jon (1992). "US Navy Units". U.S. Navy & Marine Corps Air Power Directory.
External links
editMedia related to Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 1 (United States Navy) at Wikimedia Commons