About this Unit
Helicopter Combat Support Squadron Six (HC-6), known as the “Chargers,” was established by the United States Navy in 1967. Based primarily at Naval Air Station Norfolk, Virginia, HC-6 provided vital logistics, vertical replenishment, search and rescue, and medevac support for the Atlantic Fleet. The squadron operated various helicopters over its history, including the UH-46 Sea Knight and later the MH-60S Knighthawk. HC-6 played significant roles in numerous operations and humanitarian missions before being disestablished in 2005, with its legacy carried forward by successor units.
Historical Facts
•
Establishment: Helicopter Combat Support Squadron SIX (HC-6), known as the "Chargers," was commissioned on 1 April 1967 at Naval Air Station Norfolk, Virginia.
•
Primary Mission: HC-6’s primary mission was vertical replenishment (VERTREP), providing logistics and supply support to U.S. Navy ships at sea, often using the CH-46 Sea Knight and later the MH-60S Seahawk helicopters.
•
Vietnam War Service: Soon after its commissioning, HC-6 participated in combat support missions during the Vietnam War, including logistics and medevac operations.
•
Arctic Operations: HC-6 supported Arctic resupply missions, flying helicopters off icebreakers and supporting scientific and military activities in harsh environments.
•
Rescue Missions: The squadron was involved in numerous high-profile search and rescue (SAR) missions, saving both military and civilian lives at sea and on land.
•
Desert Storm: During Operation Desert Storm in 1991, HC-6 detachments provided vital logistics and medevac support to the U.S. Fifth Fleet in the Persian Gulf.
•
Humanitarian Assistance: HC-6 participated in humanitarian missions, including disaster relief after hurricanes and earthquakes, delivering food, water, and medical supplies.
•
Presidential Support: The squadron provided helicopter support for Presidential and VIP transport missions, ensuring security and rapid mobility for senior leaders.
•
Nickname and Mascot: HC-6 was known as the “Chargers,” and their mascot was a lightning bolt, symbolizing speed and power.
•
Deactivation: HC-6 was officially deactivated on 8 April 2005 after 38 years of distinguished service, with many of its missions and personnel transitioning to other Navy helicopter squadrons.
