HC-2 FLEET ANGELS

• Founding and Early Years: Helicopter Combat Support Squadron TWO (HC-2), known as the "Fleet Angels," was originally established in 1948 at Naval Air Station Lakehurst, New Jersey, making it one of the oldest helicopter squadrons in the U.S. Navy. • Origin of the Nickname: The nickname "Fleet Angels" was earned due to their lifesaving search and rescue missions, especially during naval operations and emergencies at sea. • Korean War Service: HC-2 deployed helicopters during the Korean War, providing crucial medevac and logistics support, and helping to pioneer the use of helicopters in combat environments. • Presidential Support: HC-2 provided helicopter support for the President of the United States and other dignitaries, contributing to the birth of what would later become the official "Marine One" mission. • Rescue at Sea: The squadron was credited with thousands of lives saved during their decades of search and rescue missions, including dramatic rescues during hurricanes, shipwrecks, and aircraft crashes. • Helicopter Evolution: Over the years, HC-2 operated a variety of helicopters, including the Sikorsky HO3S, H-19 Chickasaw, SH-3 Sea King, and later the UH-3H, adapting to evolving mission requirements. • Cold War Operations: During the Cold War, HC-2 played a vital role in anti-submarine warfare (ASW) support, logistics, and vertical replenishment, supporting the U.S. Atlantic Fleet globally. • Humanitarian Missions: HC-2 was frequently called upon for disaster relief, such as providing aid and rescue services during Hurricane Andrew in 1992 and other natural disasters. • Final Years and Decommissioning: The squadron was officially disestablished on September 30, 1995, at Naval Air Station Norfolk, ending nearly five decades of distinguished service. • Legacy: The legacy of the Fleet Angels lives on in the Navy’s continued use of helicopters for search and rescue, logistics, and humanitarian missions—a testament to the pioneering spirit of HC-2.