HMX-1

• Presidential Helicopter Squadron: HMX-1 (Marine Helicopter Squadron One) is best known for providing helicopter transport to the President of the United States, earning the callsign “Marine One” when the President is aboard. • Founded in 1947: HMX-1 was established on December 1, 1947, at Marine Corps Air Station Quantico, Virginia, initially to test and evaluate military helicopters. • First Helicopter Assault: In 1950, HMX-1 conducted the first-ever helicopter-borne ship-to-shore assault, setting the stage for future vertical envelopment tactics used by the Marine Corps. • Presidential Duties Begin: HMX-1 began its presidential transport mission in 1957, when President Dwight D. Eisenhower became the first U.S. president to fly in a helicopter. • Dual Aircraft Fleet: The squadron operates both Sikorsky VH-3D Sea King and VH-60N White Hawk helicopters for presidential and VIP transport. • Distinctive Green and White Livery: HMX-1 helicopters are easily recognizable by their unique green and white paint scheme, symbolizing their special mission. • Secret Service Coordination: HMX-1 works closely with the U.S. Secret Service to ensure the President's safety during all helicopter flights and landings. • Other VIP Duties: Besides the President, HMX-1 also transports the Vice President, Cabinet members, foreign dignitaries, and other VIPs as directed. • Experimental Roots: The original mission of HMX-1 was to develop helicopter tactics, techniques, and procedures—making it the first U.S. military helicopter squadron. • Callsign Trivia: The “Marine One” callsign is only used when the President is on board; otherwise, the helicopters use the callsign “Nighthawk.”