HS-5

• Establishment: Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron FIVE (HS-5), known as the "Nightdippers," was established on January 3, 1956 at Naval Air Station Key West, Florida. • Nickname: The squadron became widely known as the "Nightdippers" due to their ability to conduct anti-submarine operations at night, a challenging feat in the early days of naval helicopter operations. • Pioneering Role: HS-5 was one of the first U.S. Navy squadrons equipped with the Sikorsky HSS-1 Seabat, a key anti-submarine warfare (ASW) helicopter of the era. • Cuban Missile Crisis: In 1962, HS-5 played a critical role in the naval blockade during the Cuban Missile Crisis, providing ASW coverage for U.S. ships enforcing the quarantine. • Apollo Recovery: The squadron participated in the recovery of Apollo 7 in October 1968, serving as the primary helicopter squadron for the retrieval of astronauts after splashdown. • Transition to SH-3 Sea King: In 1969, HS-5 transitioned to the Sikorsky SH-3D Sea King, enhancing their capabilities for anti-submarine and search and rescue missions. • Gulf War Service: HS-5 deployed aboard USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm, conducting ASW and combat search and rescue missions. • 9/11 Response: The squadron was deployed at sea with USS George Washington (CVN 73) during the 9/11 terrorist attacks, immediately shifting to homeland defense operations. • Helicopter Upgrades: In 2005, HS-5 became one of the first anti-submarine squadrons to transition to the Sikorsky MH-60S Seahawk, modernizing its mission capabilities. • Redesignation: In 2016, as part of the Navy’s helicopter reorganization, HS-5 was redesignated as Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron FIVE (HSC-5), reflecting expanded roles beyond anti-submarine warfare.