HC-3

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Branch

U.S. Navy

Members

About HC-3

Helicopter Combat Support Squadron THREE (HC-3), nicknamed the "Merlins," was established by the U.S. Navy on September 1, 1967, at Naval Air Station Imperial Beach, California. Its primary mission was to provide vertical replenishment (VERTREP) and logistics support to the Pacific Fleet using CH-46 Sea Knight helicopters. Over the years, HC-3 became a major fleet replacement squadron, training pilots and aircrew for helicopter combat support operations. In 2005, reflecting changes in mission and aircraft, HC-3 was redesignated as Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron THREE (HSC-3), transitioning to the MH-60S Seahawk platform.

Unit Members

Rob Langford

U.S. Navy

HC-3View Profile

Tom Dew

U.S. Navy

HC-3View Profile

Photos

The Hallers 1967, @ the U

U.S. Navy • 1967

USNS Stalwart TAGOS-1, no

U.S. Navy • 1985

About HC-3

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins and Establishment: Helicopter Combat Support Squadron THREE (HC-3) was established on 1 September 1967 at Naval Air Station Imperial Beach, California, during the Vietnam War era. • Nickname: The squadron was known as the "Pack Rats," a name reflecting their support and logistics mission for the Navy. • Primary Mission: HC-3 originally provided vertical replenishment (VERTREP) services, transporting supplies, mail, and personnel between ships at sea using helicopters. • First Helicopter Platform: The squadron initially flew the CH-46D Sea Knight helicopter, a versatile twin-rotor aircraft well-suited for cargo and personnel transport. • Pioneering Vertical Replenishment: HC-3 was the first Navy squadron dedicated solely to the VERTREP mission, revolutionizing underway replenishment tactics for the fleet. • Training Role: In the 1980s, HC-3 transitioned into a Fleet Replacement Squadron, training pilots and aircrew for helicopter operations, significantly increasing its importance in Navy aviation. • Aircraft Evolution: Over time, HC-3 operated several helicopter types, including the CH-46 Sea Knight, and later transitioned to the MH-60S Knighthawk, reflecting advancements in naval aviation technology. • Base Relocation: The squadron moved from NAS Imperial Beach to NAS North Island, San Diego, aligning with Navy realignment strategies and consolidating helicopter operations. • Supporting Major Operations: HC-3 and its crews supported numerous high-profile military and humanitarian operations, including disaster relief efforts, showcasing their versatility beyond combat support. • Legacy and Redesignation: On 1 April 2005, HC-3 was redesignated as Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron THREE (HSC-3), continuing its legacy as the Navy’s premier helicopter training squadron.