Helicopter Training Squadron 18

Helicopter Training Squadron Eighteen (HT-18), known as the "Vigilant Eagles," was established on March 1, 1972, at Naval Air Station Whiting Field in Milton, Florida. Created to meet the growing demand for Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard helicopter pilots, HT-18 initially flew the TH-1L "Huey" before transitioning to the TH-57 Sea Ranger. The squadron provides advanced rotary-wing training, preparing student aviators for operational assignments in various helicopter platforms. Over the decades, HT-18 has played a pivotal role in producing highly skilled helicopter pilots, upholding a tradition of excellence in naval aviation training.