HS-9

• Origins: HS-9, or Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 9, was first established on 1 June 1956 at Naval Air Station Quonset Point, Rhode Island. • Nickname: The squadron was known as the "Sea Griffins," and their distinctive insignia featured a griffin with a trident. • Aircraft Evolution: HS-9 initially flew the Sikorsky HSS-1 Seabat, later transitioning to models such as the SH-3 Sea King and, eventually, the SH-60F Seahawk. • Cuban Missile Crisis: HS-9 participated in the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, providing anti-submarine patrols during the naval quarantine of Cuba. • Apollo Recovery Missions: HS-9 helicopters were part of the recovery forces for America's Apollo space missions, including Apollo 7 and Apollo 9, assisting in returning astronauts to safety. • Vietnam War: Elements of HS-9 deployed to the Vietnam War, supporting anti-submarine operations and search and rescue missions in the Gulf of Tonkin. • Carrier Deployments: HS-9 frequently deployed aboard aircraft carriers such as USS Nimitz (CVN-68) and USS Saratoga (CV-60), providing anti-submarine and combat search and rescue capabilities. • Operation Desert Storm: During the 1991 Gulf War, HS-9 played a crucial role in enforcing maritime blockades and hunting for enemy submarines in the Persian Gulf. • Humanitarian Missions: Besides combat operations, HS-9 was involved in humanitarian relief efforts, including disaster response and search and rescue missions in the Caribbean and Mediterranean. • Disestablishment: HS-9 was officially disestablished on 30 April 1993, after nearly 37 years of distinguished service to the U.S. Navy.