HC-1
Former helicopter squadron of the United States Navy
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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".
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United States Navy| Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 1 (HC-1) | |
|---|---|
| |
| Active | 1 April 1948 – 29 April 1994 |
| Country | United States of America |
| Branch | United States Navy |
| Type | Navy Helicopter Squadron |
| Size | Squadron |
| Garrison/HQ | NAS North Island |
| Nickname | "Pacific Fleet Angels" |
| Engagements | Vietnam War Gulf War |
History
Early 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]
Performing SAR and flying SH3G and CH53E helos, HC-1 operated out of Naval Air Station North Island - NASNI - in Coronado, CA. Fleet Angels. So Others May Live.
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
The squadron has operated several types during its history:
