HSC-6

• Establishment: Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron SIX (HSC-6), known as the "Screamin' Indians," was originally established as Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron SIX (HS-6) on 1 June 1956 at Naval Air Station San Diego, California. • Nickname: The squadron's nickname, "Screamin' Indians," is represented by their famous insignia featuring a Native American in a war bonnet. • Vietnam War Service: HS-6 participated in combat search and rescue (CSAR) and anti-submarine warfare missions during the Vietnam War, playing a vital role in recovering downed aviators. • Transition to HSC: In 2009, HS-6 was redesignated as HSC-6, reflecting a shift from a primary anti-submarine focus to multi-mission capabilities, including combat search and rescue, logistics, and special operations support. • Aircraft Evolution: Over its history, the squadron has flown several helicopters, including the SH-3 Sea King, the SH-60F/HH-60H Seahawk, and currently the MH-60S Knighthawk. • Operation Iraqi Freedom & Enduring Freedom: HSC-6 provided critical support in the Middle East, conducting logistics, search and rescue, and special operations missions in support of these operations. • Carrier Deployments: The unit has been embarked with many U.S. Navy aircraft carriers, including the USS Nimitz (CVN-68) and USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76), supporting carrier strike group operations worldwide. • Humanitarian Missions: HSC-6 has participated in several disaster relief operations, such as Operation Unified Assistance following the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, providing humanitarian aid and medical evacuations. • Safety and Awards: The squadron has received numerous awards for operational excellence and safety, including multiple Battle "E" awards and Chief of Naval Operations Aviation Safety Awards. • Legacy and Culture: HSC-6 is recognized for its strong unit camaraderie and esprit de corps, with a legacy spanning over six decades of distinguished service in the United States Navy.