About this Unit
Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron One (HS-1), known as the "Seahorses," was established at Naval Air Station Jacksonville (NAS Jax), Florida, in 1951. As the U.S. Navy’s first helicopter antisubmarine warfare (ASW) squadron, HS-1 pioneered tactics and training for rotary-wing ASW operations during the Cold War. Throughout its history, HS-1 played a key role in developing helicopter doctrine, serving as the Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) to train generations of pilots and aircrew. The squadron was decommissioned in 1997, leaving a lasting legacy in naval aviation and antisubmarine warfare.
Historical Facts
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Establishment: Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron ONE (HS-1) was established on October 1, 1951 at Naval Air Station Jacksonville (NAS Jax), Florida, as the first anti-submarine helicopter squadron in the U.S. Navy.
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Pioneering Role: HS-1 was the Navy's first operational helicopter anti-submarine squadron, paving the way for modern naval rotary-wing ASW operations.
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First Aircraft: The squadron initially flew the Sikorsky HO4S-3 helicopter, a predecessor to later, more advanced ASW helicopters.
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Training Mission: Known as the "Seahorses," HS-1 served as the fleet replacement squadron, training thousands of pilots and aircrew in anti-submarine warfare over its active years.
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Aircraft Evolution: Through the decades, HS-1 transitioned through several helicopter models, including the HSS-1 Seabat, SH-3A/D/G/H Sea King, and finally the SH-60F/HH-60H Seahawk.
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Vietnam War Contribution: HS-1 personnel and aircraft were deployed in support of fleet operations during the Vietnam War, contributing to search and rescue (SAR) and ASW missions.
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Presidential Support: HS-1 Sea King helicopters were sometimes used in support roles for presidential transport and security missions.
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Deactivation: After more than 55 years of service, HS-1 was disestablished on June 29, 2007, as the Navy transitioned to the MH-60R helicopter and reorganized its ASW training.
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Legacy: Many of today’s Navy helicopter pilots and aircrew trace their roots to the rigorous training and standards set by HS-1 at NAS Jacksonville.
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Symbolism: The squadron's patch featured a seahorse, symbolizing agility and adaptability in the sea, and became an enduring emblem for generations of Navy helicopter crews.
