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)
Active1 April 1948 – 29 April 1994
CountryUnited States of America
BranchUnited States Navy Seal United States Navy
TypeNavy Helicopter Squadron
SizeSquadron
Garrison/HQNAS North Island
Nickname(s)"Pacific Fleet Angels"
EngagementsVietnam War
Gulf War

History

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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]

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

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The squadron has operated several types during its history:

See also

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References

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  1. ^ "History". Archived from the original on 15 September 2013.
  2. ^ a b Donald, David; Lake, Jon (1992). "US Navy Units". U.S. Navy & Marine Corps Air Power Directory.
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