About this Unit
Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Fourteen (HS-14), known as the "Chargers," was established in 1984 as a U.S. Navy helicopter unit. Originally based at Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan, HS-14 operated primarily with the SH-3H Sea King and later transitioned to the SH-60F and HH-60H Seahawk helicopters. The squadron's primary mission was anti-submarine warfare (ASW), but it also provided search and rescue (SAR), anti-surface warfare, and logistics support, often deploying with Carrier Air Wing Five aboard the USS Kitty Hawk and later the USS George Washington. In 2013, HS-14 was redesignated as Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Fourteen (HSC-14), reflecting a broader mission set with the introduction of the MH-60S Seahawk.
Historical Facts
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Origin of HS-14: Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 14 (HS-14), known as the "Chargers," was established on July 3, 1984, at Naval Air Station North Island, California.
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Homeport Shift to Japan: In 1991, HS-14 was forward-deployed to Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan, joining Carrier Air Wing 5 onboard USS Independence (CV-62), reinforcing the U.S. Navy's presence in the Pacific.
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Primary Mission: HS-14 specialized in anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASUW), search and rescue (SAR), and logistics support, primarily operating the Sikorsky SH-60F and HH-60H Seahawk helicopters.
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Desert Storm Support: While not directly deployed during Operation Desert Storm, HS-14 contributed to U.S. naval readiness in the Pacific during the Gulf War era.
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Humanitarian Assistance: HS-14 played a crucial role in Operation Unified Assistance, providing disaster relief after the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, delivering supplies and evacuating victims in Southeast Asia.
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First to Use Armed Helicopters in the Pacific: HS-14 was among the first helicopter squadrons in the Pacific Fleet to deploy armed HH-60H helicopters capable of firing Hellfire missiles and crew-served weapons.
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Transition to HSC-14: In 2013, HS-14 was redesignated as Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 14 (HSC-14), reflecting the Navy's transition from a pure ASW focus to a broader mission set.
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Nickname and Mascot: The squadron's nickname, "Chargers," is reflected in their logo, which features a charging knight, symbolizing speed, power, and readiness.
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Support to Presidential Visits: HS-14 provided helicopter support for several U.S. Presidential visits to Asia, ensuring secure and rapid transport for VIPs.
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Decorations and Honors: Over its history, HS-14 earned multiple awards, including the Meritorious Unit Commendation, Navy Battle “E” Award, and the Humanitarian Service Medal for its operational excellence and disaster relief efforts.
