HC-6

• 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.