About this Unit
Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25 (HSC-25), known as the "Island Knights," is a United States Navy helicopter squadron based at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. Established in 1984 as HC-5 and later redesignated HSC-25 in 2005, the unit operates the MH-60S Seahawk helicopter. HSC-25 provides vital combat support, search and rescue, logistics, and humanitarian assistance throughout the Western Pacific. The squadron is also the Navy’s only forward-deployed vertical replenishment unit in the Pacific, supporting both Navy and joint forces in the region.
Historical Facts
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Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25 (HSC-25): Known as the "Island Knights," HSC-25 is a United States Navy helicopter squadron based in Guam.
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Search and Rescue (SAR) Excellence: HSC-25 is the only permanently forward-deployed Navy helicopter squadron in the Western Pacific with a 24/7 SAR alert mission, supporting both military and civilian emergencies across Micronesia.
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Origins: The squadron was originally established as Helicopter Combat Support Squadron Five (HC-5) in 1984 and redesignated as HSC-25 in 2005.
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Nickname Legacy: The "Island Knights" nickname reflects their regional importance and commitment to the communities of the Pacific islands.
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Aircraft: HSC-25 flies the MH-60S Seahawk, a highly versatile helicopter capable of performing logistics, combat support, SAR, and special operations missions.
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Humanitarian Assistance: Over the years, HSC-25 has participated in numerous humanitarian operations, including disaster relief missions after typhoons and earthquakes in the Pacific region.
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Civilian Rescues: The squadron is frequently called upon to perform life-saving medical evacuations and search and rescue operations for civilians in remote Pacific islands, often in challenging conditions.
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Detachment Operations: HSC-25 maintains detachments aboard Military Sealift Command ships, providing vertical replenishment (VERTREP), logistics, and support for U.S. Navy operations throughout the 7th Fleet area of responsibility.
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Award-Winning Performance: The squadron has earned multiple awards for operational excellence, safety, and mission effectiveness, including the Battle "E" and CNO Safety Awards.
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Community Engagement: HSC-25 is active in outreach and community support in Guam, participating in local events, educational programs, and fostering strong ties with the people of the region.