HM-14

• First of Its Kind: HM-14, also known as the "Vanguard," was established on 12 May 1977 as the U.S. Navy’s first airborne mine countermeasures (AMCM) squadron, pioneering the use of helicopters for mine warfare. • Unique Aircraft: The squadron operated the MH-53E Sea Dragon, the largest and most powerful helicopter in the U.S. Navy’s inventory, specifically designed for mine countermeasures missions. • International Operations: HM-14 was the first U.S. Navy squadron to deploy an airborne mine countermeasures detachment to the Persian Gulf during Operation Earnest Will in the late 1980s. • Dual US-UK Teaming: HM-14 worked closely with the Royal Navy, often conducting joint AMCM exercises and exchanges with the British Fleet Air Arm. • Humanitarian Missions: In addition to mine countermeasures, HM-14 helicopters were used for humanitarian missions, including disaster relief operations in the aftermath of hurricanes and tsunamis. • Operation Desert Storm: During the Gulf War, HM-14 played a crucial role in clearing Iraqi-laid mines from the waterways leading to Kuwaiti ports, enabling coalition naval operations. • Trans-Atlantic Deployments: The squadron made several trans-Atlantic flights, including self-deployment of MH-53Es from the U.S. to Europe, showcasing their long-range capabilities. • Homeport: HM-14 was based at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, serving as a key asset on the U.S. East Coast for mine countermeasures and heavy lift operations. • Meritorious Unit Commendations: The squadron received multiple unit commendations for its outstanding performance and innovation in mine warfare and operational support. • Deactivation: HM-14 was officially deactivated on 29 June 2022, marking the end of an era for U.S. Navy airborne mine countermeasures as the service transitioned to new technologies and unmanned systems.