HA(L)-3

• Origins as the "Seawolves": HA(L)-3, Helicopter Attack (Light) Squadron Three, was known as the "Seawolves" and was officially established on April 1, 1967, during the Vietnam War. • Only Navy Attack Helicopter Squadron: HA(L)-3 was the only helicopter gunship squadron ever commissioned by the U.S. Navy, created specifically to support riverine operations in Vietnam. • Brown Water Navy Support: The squadron provided close air support to the Navy's "Brown Water Navy"—patrol boats and riverine units operating in the Mekong Delta. • Unusual Aircraft: The Seawolves primarily flew the UH-1B and UH-1C "Huey" helicopters, typically associated with the U.S. Army, not the Navy. • Extreme Combat Activity: HA(L)-3 became one of the most decorated units in the Vietnam War, flying over 120,000 combat missions between 1967 and 1972. • High Operational Tempo: The unit averaged more than 600 combat missions each month, often launching within minutes of receiving a call for help. • Heroic Rescues: Seawolves crews frequently performed daring rescues under fire, extracting wounded personnel and downed pilots from hostile territory at great personal risk. • Decorations and Honors: HA(L)-3 members earned over 3,000 medals, including 17 Navy Crosses, 31 Silver Stars, and 219 Distinguished Flying Crosses. • Casualties: The squadron lost 44 men killed in action and 200 wounded during its five years of combat operations. • Legacy: HA(L)-3 was disbanded on March 16, 1972, but its legacy continues in Navy special operations aviation, and its members maintain an active veteran association.