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History of Squadron One Vietmam

**Squadron One** was a U.S. Navy riverine unit established during the Vietnam War as part of the Mobile Riverine Force operations in the Mekong Delta. Initially formed in 1966, Squadron One operated Patrol Boat, River (PBR) craft, conducting patrols, interdiction, and support missions along the complex waterways of South Vietnam. The unit played a crucial role in disrupting Viet Cong supply lines, providing fire support for ground forces, and participating in major operations such as Operation Game Warden. Squadron One's efforts were instrumental in asserting control over the riverine environment until its disestablishment in the early 1970s as U.S. involvement in Vietnam decreased.

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ABOUT Squadron One Vietmam

  • Squadron One (also known as HA(L)-3 "Seawolves"): The formal name for Squadron One was Helicopter Attack (Light) Squadron Three (HA(L)-3), famously called the "Seawolves." They were the only Navy helicopter gunship squadron ever commissioned.
  • Formed in Response to Urgent Need: HA(L)-3 was created in 1967 to provide close air support for Navy riverine operations in the Mekong Delta, a strategic and dangerous region during the Vietnam War.
  • Most Decorated Squadron of the Vietnam War: The Seawolves became the most decorated unit in the Vietnam War, earning over 30,000 individual and unit awards, including 5 Presidential Unit Citations.
  • High Operational Tempo: HA(L)-3 conducted over 120,000 combat missions, often flying multiple sorties per day and operating around the clock in support of river patrol boats (PBRs) and SEAL teams.
  • Unique Aircraft: The squadron flew heavily armed UH-1B Huey helicopters, customized with machine guns, rockets, and grenade launchers for attack and support roles.
  • Volunteer Crews: The Seawolves were composed entirely of volunteers from the Navy, many of whom had minimal helicopter experience before joining the squadron.
  • Casualties and Heroism: Despite the risks, HA(L)-3 suffered relatively low losses compared to their operational tempo, but 44 Seawolves made the ultimate sacrifice during their missions.
  • Support for Special Operations: The squadron played a crucial role in supporting Navy SEAL operations, often extracting teams under heavy fire or providing immediate air cover during ambushes.
  • Disbanded after the War: HA(L)-3 was disbanded in March 1972, shortly before the U.S. withdrawal from Vietnam, as their unique mission was no longer required.
  • Legacy and Recognition: The legacy of HA(L)-3 continues through reunions, memorials, and the Seawolf Association, which preserves the history and stories of this exceptional squadron.

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