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{{morefootnotes|date=February 2024}}
{{Use American English|date=February 2024}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=February 2024}}
{{Infobox military unit
{{Infobox military unit
|unit_name= Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Eight
|unit_name= Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Eight
|image= [[Image:HSC-8.gif|200px]]
|image= HSC-8.gif
|image_size= 200px
|caption= HSC-8 Emblem
|caption= HSC-8 Emblem
|dates= November 1, 1969 – present
|dates= 1 November 1969 – present
|country= {{flag|United States of America}}
|country= {{flag|United States of America}}
|allegiance=
|allegiance=
|branch= {{nowrap|[[Image:United States Department of the Navy Seal.svg|30px|United States Navy Seal]] [[United States Navy]]}}
|branch= {{nowrap|[[File:United States Department of the Navy Seal.svg|30px|United States Navy Seal]] [[United States Navy]]}}
|type= Navy Helicopter Squadron
|type= Navy Helicopter Squadron
|role= [[Anti-Surface Warfare]] (ASUW)<br>Combat [[Search & Rescue]] (CSAR)<br>[[Search & Rescue]] (SAR)<br> [[Special Operations]] (SpecOps) <br> [[Vertical replenishment]] (VERTREP)
|role= [[Anti-Surface Warfare]] (ASUW)<br />Combat [[Search & Rescue]] (CSAR)<br />[[Search & Rescue]] (SAR)<br /> [[Special Operations]] (SpecOps) <br /> [[Vertical replenishment]] (VERTREP)
|size=
|size=
|command_structure= [[CVW-11]]<br> [[Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific]]
|command_structure= [[CVW-11]]<br /> [[Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific]]
|current_commander= CDR Jeremy "Shed" Clarke
|current_commander= [[Commander (United States)#Naval|CDR]] Dan Thomas{{cn|date=July 2023}}
|executive_officer= CDR Justin Issler
|command_master_chief= CMDCM Doug Steinmetz
|garrison= [[NAS North Island]]
|garrison= [[NAS North Island]]
|nickname= "Eightballers"
|nickname= "Eightballers"
|motto= 'Ready & Lethal: Victory Follows the Eightball!'
|motto= 'Ready & Lethal: Victory Follows the Eightball!'
|colors= Green and Black
|colors= Green and Black
|battles= [[Vietnam War]]<br>[[Operation Desert Storm]]<br>[[Operation Enduring Freedom]]<br>[[Operation Iraqi Freedom]]<br>[[War on Terrorism|Global War on Terror]]
|battles= [[Vietnam War]]<br />[[Operation Desert Storm]]<br />[[Operation Enduring Freedom]]<br />[[Operation Iraqi Freedom]]<br />[[War on Terrorism|Global War on Terror]]
}}
}}


'''Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Eight''' ('''HSC-8''') '''"Eightballers"''' is a [[United States Navy]] helicopter squadron based at [[Naval Air Station North Island]], [[San Diego, California]]. HSC-8 is attached to Carrier Air Wing 11<ref>[http://www.cvw11.navy.mil]</ref> ([[CVW-11]]) and deploys aboard {{USS|Nimitz|CVN-68}}. HSC-8 was redesignated from HS-8 on 28 September 2007.
'''Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Eight''' ('''HSC-8''') '''"Eightballers"''' is a [[United States Navy]] helicopter squadron based at [[Naval Air Station North Island]], [[San Diego, California]]. HSC-8 is attached to Carrier Air Wing 11<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.cvw11.navy.mil/ |title=Serving Speed and Violence since 1942! |access-date=2022-03-25 |archive-date=2013-02-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130216194746/http://www.cvw11.navy.mil/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> ([[CVW-11]]) and deploys aboard {{USS|Theodore Roosevelt|CVN-71|6}}. HSC-8 was redesignated from HS-8 on 28 September 2007.


==Mission==
==Mission==
Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Eight (HSC-8), "America's Premier Combat Helicopter Squadron", provides vertical lift [[Search and Rescue]], Logistics, [[Anti-Surface Warfare]], [[Special Operations]] Forces Support, and Combat Search and Rescue capabilities for Carrier Air Wing Nine (CVW-11) in support of the USS Nimitz(CVN-68) and Carrier Strike Group 11 (CSG-11) operations.
Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Eight (HSC-8), "America's Premier Combat Helicopter Squadron", executes helicopter utility and light attack missions in support of Carrier Air Wing ELEVEN (CVW-11), USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) and Carrier Strike Group 9 (CSG-9) operations.


==History==
==History==
HSC-8 traces its lineage to the second of two squadrons which bore the designation Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron EIGHT (HS-8). That Squadron which has become HSC-8 was established on November 1, 1969.
HSC-8 traces its lineage to the second of two squadrons which bore the designation Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron EIGHT (HS-8). That Squadron which has become HSC-8 was established on 1 November 1969.


[[File:Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 8 (US Navy) insignia, 1956.png|left|thumb|100px|HS-8 squadron insignia]]
⚫
The first squadron designated HS-8 was established at [[Naval Outlying Landing Field Imperial Beach|Naval Auxiliary Air Station Ream Field]], [[Imperial Beach, California]] on June 1, 1956. The first helicopters employed by the command were the [[H-34 Choctaw|HSS-1N Seabat]]. In September 1962 in compliance with the [[1962 United States Tri-Service aircraft designation system]] the HSS-1N was redesignated the [[H-34 Choctaw|SH-34J Seabat]]. At the end of 1962 the squadron transitioned to the [[H-3 Sea King|SH-3A Sea King]]. The squadron performed eight Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployments between 1957 and 1968 including combat tours in Vietnam. Notable achievements included a 1,200 mile medical evacuation ([[MEDEVAC]]) made by helicopter, the longest in history. Other squadron achievements included participation in the [[Apollo VI]] space vehicle/crew recovery and performing more than 30 [[Combat Search and Rescue]] missions in North Vietnam. The squadron was disestablished in December 1968. [[File:US Navy 111020-N-BT887-421 An MH-60S Sea Hawk assigned to the Eightballers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron HSC-8, lifts cargo.jpg|thumb|An MH-60S Seahawk Helicopter conducts VERTREP Operations]]


⚫
The first squadron designated HS-8 was established at [[Naval Outlying Landing Field Imperial Beach|Naval Auxiliary Air Station Ream Field]], [[Imperial Beach, California]] on 1 June 1956. The first helicopters employed by the command were the [[H-34 Choctaw|HSS-1N Seabat]]. In September 1962 in compliance with the [[1962 United States Tri-Service aircraft designation system]] the HSS-1N was redesignated the [[H-34 Choctaw|SH-34J Seabat]]. At the end of 1962 the squadron transitioned to the [[H-3 Sea King|SH-3A Sea King]]. The squadron performed eight Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployments between 1957 and 1968 including combat tours in Vietnam. Notable achievements included a 1,200 mile medical evacuation ([[MEDEVAC]]) made by helicopter, the longest in history. Other squadron achievements included participation in the [[Apollo 6]] space vehicle/crew recovery and performing more than 30 [[Combat Search and Rescue]] missions in North Vietnam. The squadron was disestablished in December 1968. [[File:US Navy 111020-N-BT887-421 An MH-60S Sea Hawk assigned to the Eightballers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron HSC-8, lifts cargo.jpg|thumb|An MH-60S Seahawk Helicopter conducts VERTREP Operations]]
⚫
A year later on November 1, 1969, a new squadron was established and designated HS-8. Although the two squadrons are separate squadrons and the lineage of the first does not transfer to the second,<ref>[http://www.history.navy.mil/faqs/faq6-1.htm History.navy.mil]</ref> the newly established squadron adopted the former squadron's name, insignia and traditions in its honor. With the new squadron came new helicopters, namely the [[H-3 Sea King|SH-3D Sea King]]. Notable achievements during the next decade included site surveys for the [[United States Atomic Energy Commission|U.S. Atomic Energy Commission]], a study of blue whale migration patterns, supporting President Nixon during his working vacation aboard [[USS New Orleans (LPH-11)|USS ''New Orleans'']] and deploying in response to the [[Iranian hostage crisis]]. In 1975 the squadron transitioned to the [[H-3 Sea King|SH-3H Sea King]]. In 1976 the American Bicentennial Committee honored HS-8 as a bicentennial command. The squadron's 19th deployment came in response to [[Operation Desert Shield (Gulf War)|Desert Shield]]/Desert Storm in December 1990. This deployment was the last for HS-8 in the SH-3.


⚫
A year later on 1 November 1969, a new squadron was established and designated HS-8. Although the two squadrons are separate squadrons and the lineage of the first does not transfer to the second,<ref>[http://www.history.navy.mil/faqs/faq6-1.htm History.navy.mil]</ref> the newly established squadron adopted the former squadron's name, insignia and traditions in its honor. With the new squadron came new helicopters, namely the [[H-3 Sea King|SH-3D Sea King]]. Notable achievements during the next decade included site surveys for the [[United States Atomic Energy Commission|U.S. Atomic Energy Commission]], a study of blue whale migration patterns, supporting President Richard Nixon during his working vacation aboard {{USS|New Orleans|LPH-11|6}} and deploying in response to the [[Iranian hostage crisis]]. In 1975 the squadron transitioned to the SH-3H Sea King. In 1976 the American Bicentennial Committee honored HS-8 as a bicentennial command. The squadron's 19th deployment came in response to [[Operation Desert Shield (Gulf War)|Desert Shield]]/Desert Storm in December 1990. This deployment was the last for HS-8 in the SH-3.
⚫
On April 2, 1993 HS-8 completed transition from the SH-3H into the new [[Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk|SH-60F]] and [[Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk|HH-60H]] Seahawk helicopters. The squadron's 20th WESTPAC deployment was from February to August 1994. HS-8 was a member of Carrier Air Wing 14 (CVW-14) aboard the USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70). The 21st WESTPAC was concluded in May 1996 followed in September 1997 by an "Around the World Cruise" with the {{USS|Nimitz|CVN-68|6}}. Deployments after this were routine until September 11, 2001.

⚫
On 2 April 1993 HS-8 completed transition from the SH-3H into the new [[Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk|SH-60F]] and [[Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk|HH-60H]] Seahawk helicopters. The squadron's 20th WESTPAC deployment was from February to August 1994. HS-8 was a member of Carrier Air Wing 14 (CVW-14) aboard {{USS|Carl Vinson}}. The 21st WESTPAC was concluded in May 1996 followed in September 1997 by an "Around the World Cruise" with {{USS|Nimitz|CVN-68|6}}. Deployments after this were routine until 11 September 2001.


From November 2001 to May 2002 HS-8 and Carrier Air Wing Nine deployed in [[Operation Enduring Freedom]]. There they played a vital role in the campaign that ended with the removal of the Taliban government in Afghanistan.
From November 2001 to May 2002 HS-8 and Carrier Air Wing Nine deployed in [[Operation Enduring Freedom]]. There they played a vital role in the campaign that ended with the removal of the Taliban government in Afghanistan.
[[File:US Navy 070928-N-4995K-066 Rear Adm. Gerard Mauer, the guest speaker for the transition ceremony of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 8.jpg|thumb|HSC-8 redesignation ceremony September 28, 2007]]
[[File:US Navy 070928-N-4995K-066 Rear Adm. Gerard Mauer, the guest speaker for the transition ceremony of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 8.jpg|thumb|HSC-8 redesignation ceremony 28 September 2007.]]
[[Image:M240 machine gun fired from door of SH-60F Seahawk of HS-8 in 2003.jpg|thumb|right|M240 machine gun is fired from a [[SH-60|SH-60F Sea Hawk]] assigned to the "Eightballers" of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Eight (HS-8) during a training exercise. 2003]]
[[File:M240 machine gun fired from door of SH-60F Seahawk of HS-8 in 2003.jpg|thumb|right|M240 machine gun is fired from a [[SH-60|SH-60F Sea Hawk]] assigned to the "Eightballers" of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Eight (HS-8) during a training exercise. 2003]]

⚫
HS-8 made another WESTPAC deployment from January to September 2003 followed by their second "Around the World Cruise" from January to August 2005 aboard the [[USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70)|USS ''Carl Vinson'']]. The squadron earned the Carrier Air Wing Nine Golden Wrench Award for superior maintenance and mission completion percentages as well as the [[Battle E Device]] (Navy Battle Efficiency Award) for the 2005 World Cruise.

In early December 2005 an HS-8 helicopter and aircrew participated in filming a portion of the television show '24' where the helicopter was transporting the fictitious Russian president and his wife to the American presidents ranch.<ref>[http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=21389 News.Navy.mil] (Navy News Stand)</ref>

⚫
On September 28, 2007, at [[Naval Air Station North Island]], '''Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Eight''' was redesignated as Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Eight and received its first [[SH-60|MH-60S Seahawk]] with the armed helo kit. In January 2009, HSC-8 went on its first deployment with the MH-60S where it was joined by [[HSM-71]] flying the [[SH-60|MH-60R Seahawk]] aboard the USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74). During this deployment, HSC-8 assisted in the filming of Transformers 2.<ref>[http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=32183/ Navy.mil], Navy News Stand</ref>


⚫
HS-8 made another WESTPAC deployment from January to September 2003 followed by their second "Around the World Cruise" from January to August 2005 aboard USS ''Carl Vinson''. The squadron earned the Carrier Air Wing Nine Golden Wrench Award for superior maintenance and mission completion percentages as well as the [[Battle E Device]] (Navy Battle Efficiency Award) for the 2005 World Cruise. In early December 2005 an HS-8 helicopter and aircrew participated in filming a portion of the television show ''24'' where the helicopter was transporting the fictitious Russian president and his wife to the American presidents ranch.<ref>[http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=21389 News.Navy.mil] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081005230351/http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=21389 |date=2008-10-05 }} (Navy News Stand)</ref>
⚫
Starting the first of two back-to-back eight-month deployment cycles, HSC-8 embarked on a WESTPAC deployment in July 2011. During deployment, the Eightballers accomplished the first-ever MH-60S Cruiser/Destroyer (CRUDES) detachment when they embarked in USS ''Mobile Bay'' (CG-53). HSC-8 also assisted in counter piracy operations, successfully aiding in the capture of fifteen suspected pirates.


⚫
On 28 September 2007, at [[Naval Air Station North Island]], '''Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Eight''' was redesignated as Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Eight and received its first [[SH-60|MH-60S Seahawk]] with the armed helo kit. In January 2009, HSC-8 went on its first deployment with the MH-60S where it was joined by [[HSM-71]] flying the [[SH-60|MH-60R Seahawk]] aboard {{USS|John C. Stennis}}. During this deployment, HSC-8 assisted in the filming of ''[[Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen]]''.<ref>[http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=32183/ Navy.mil], Navy News Stand</ref>
⚫
After a short turn around, HSC-8 departed on an eight-month surge deployment to the 5th Fleet Area of Responsibility in September 2012. HSC-8 deployed as part of Carrier Air Wing NINE (CVW-9) aboard USS ''John C. Stennis'' (CVN-74) in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, maritime security operations, and theater security exercises. One of the highlights of the deployment was the rescue of a drowning man in the Straits of Malacca- the Eightballer’s first overwater rescue in several years. HSC-8 also participated in Operation Beacon Flash, a joint security exercise with the Royal Omani Air Force.


⚫
Starting the first of two back-to-back eight-month deployment cycles, HSC-8 embarked on a WESTPAC deployment in July 2011. During deployment, the Eightballers accomplished the first-ever MH-60S Cruiser/Destroyer (CRUDES) detachment when they embarked in {{USS|Mobile Bay|CG-53|6}}. HSC-8 also assisted in counter [[piracy]] operations, successfully aiding in the capture of fifteen suspected pirates.
==Former commanding officers==
*Jun 1956 - Jul 1956 LCDR R.G. West
*Jul 1956 - Jan 1958 CDR Louis F. Knight
*Jan 1958 - Jan 1959 CDR Alton W. Payne
*Jan 1959 - Feb 1960 CDR Alvin F. Emig
*Feb 1960 - Feb 1961 CDR William C. Butler
*Feb 1961 - Apr 1962 CDR William L. Aydelott
*Apr 1962 - Mar 1963 CDR Carl H. Klindworth
*Mar 1963 - Mar 1964 CDR Jack R. Evans
*Mar 1964 - Mar 1965 CDR Bryan R. Eagan
*Mar 1965 - Dec 1965 CDR George E. Smith
*Dec 1965 - Oct 1966 CDR Nathan F. Mcdonald
*Oct 1966 - Jul 1967 CDR David L. Hughes
*Jul 1967 - Jul 1968 CDR Emiddio Massa
*Jul 1968 - Dec 1968 CDR Robert R. Zastrow
HS-8 disestablished on 31 December 1968<br>


⚫
After a short turn around, HSC-8 departed on an eight-month surge deployment to the 5th Fleet Area of Responsibility in September 2012. HSC-8 deployed as part of Carrier Air Wing NINE (CVW-9) aboard USS ''John C. Stennis'' in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, maritime security operations, and theater security exercises. One of the highlights of the deployment was the rescue of a drowning man in the [[Straits of Malacca]]- the Eightballer’s first overwater rescue in several years. HSC-8 also participated in Operation Beacon Flash, a joint security exercise with the [[Royal Omani Air Force]].
Second squadron designated HS-8 established on 1 November 1969
*Nov 1969 – Oct 1970 CDR Frank M. Suzan
*Oct 1970 – Oct 1971 CDR Thomas D. Eyres
*Oct 1971 – Nov 1972 CDR Orville Wright, Jr
*Nov 1972 – Oct 1973 CDR Paul E. Caine
*Oct 1973 – Oct 1974 CDR Charles P. Silvia
*Oct 1974 – Nov 1975 CDR Barry W. Coats
*Nov 1975 – Jan 1977 CDR Dale L. Larson
*Jan 1977 – May 1978 CDR Charles E. Brooks
*May 1978 – Jul 1979 CDR William E. Terry
*Jul 1979 – Oct 1980 CDR Robert Parkinson
*Oct 1980 – Dec 1981 CDR Joseph S. Walker
*Dec 1981 – Jun 1983 CDR Mack Thomas, Jr.
*Jun 1983 – Sep 1984 CDR Robert A. Schottle
*Sep 1984 – 1986 CDR Randall O. Abshier
*1986–1988 CDR Douglas Yesensky
*1988–1990 CDR William Anderson Cain
*1990–1991 CDR Donald Steuer
*1991–1992 CDR Al 'Booter' Haefner
*1992–1993 CDR Lars Wallis
*1993–1994 CDR Henry Dosker
*1994–1996 CDR Terry Doyle
*1996–1998 CDR Lou Cortellini
*1998–2000 CDR Terry Jones
*2002–2003 CDR Nosenzo
*2003–2004 CDR Thom Burke
*2004–2006 CDR Marc Homan
*2006–2007 CDR Joey Tynch
*2007–2008 CDR Lawrence Vincent
*2008–2009 CDR Mike Ruth
*2009–2011 CDR Eric Soderberg
*2011–2012 CDR Monroe Howell
*2012–2013 CDR Lawrence Meehan
*2013–2014 CDR Derrick Kingsley
*2014–2016 CDR William Shipp
*2016 - present CDR Kelly Middleton


==Squadron aircraft==
==Squadron aircraft==
Line 115: Line 63:
* [[SH-60|SH-60F Seahawk]], 1992–2007
* [[SH-60|SH-60F Seahawk]], 1992–2007
* [[SH-60|SH-60H Seahawk]], 1992–2007
* [[SH-60|SH-60H Seahawk]], 1992–2007
* [[MH-60|MH-60S Seahawk]], 2007-present (redesignated HSC-8 in 2007)
* [[MH-60|MH-60S Seahawk]], 2007–present (redesignated HSC-8 in 2007)
[[File:US Navy 051114-N-9500T-046 An HH-60H Seahawk helicopter prepares to takeoff for a night training mission from Naval Air Facility (NAF) El Centro, Calif.jpg|thumb|An HH-60H assigned to HS-8 prepares to taxi at [[Naval Air Facility El Centro|NAF El Centro]], CA.]]
[[File:US Navy 051114-N-9500T-046 An HH-60H Seahawk helicopter prepares to takeoff for a night training mission from Naval Air Facility (NAF) El Centro, Calif.jpg|thumb|An HH-60H assigned to HS-8 prepares to taxi at [[Naval Air Facility El Centro|NAF El Centro]], CA.]]
[[Image:SH-3H sonar HS-8 CV-64 1989.jpg|thumb|right|An SH-3H of HS-8 dipping its [[sonar]] in 1989]]
[[File:SH-3H sonar HS-8 CV-64 1989.jpg|thumb|right|An SH-3H of HS-8 dipping its [[sonar]] in 1989]]


==Squadron awards==
==Squadron awards==
Line 137: Line 85:
**2009
**2009
**2012
**2012
**2017
*'''Captain Arnold Jay Isbell Trophy for Antisubmarine Warfare Excellence'''
*'''Captain Arnold Jay Isbell Trophy for Antisubmarine Warfare Excellence'''
**Eight Awards
**Eight Awards
Line 158: Line 107:
**1991
**1991
**1997
**1997
**2016
**2017
*'''[[Chief of Naval Operations]] Safety Award'''
*'''[[Chief of Naval Operations]] Safety Award'''
**1983
**1983
Line 168: Line 119:
*'''Naval Air Forces Medical Readiness Award'''
*'''Naval Air Forces Medical Readiness Award'''
**2012
**2012
**2016
**2017


==Ships deployed aboard==
==Ships deployed aboard==
*[[USS Princeton (CVS-37)]] 1958–1968
*{{USS|Princeton|CVS-37|6}} 1958–1968
*[[USS Hornet (CVS-12)]] 1958–1968
*{{USS|Hornet|CVS-12|6}} 1958–1968
*[[USS Bennington (CVS-20)]] 1960–1974
*{{USS|Bennington|CVS-20|6}} 1960–1974
*[[USS Ticonderoga (CVS-14)]]
*{{USS|Ticonderoga|CVS-14|6}}
*[[USS New Orleans (LPH-11)]] 1970
*{{USS|New Orleans|LPH-11|6}} 1970
*[[USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63)]]
*{{USS|Kitty Hawk|CV-63|6}}
*[[USS Ranger (CV-61)]] 1983–1984
*{{USS|Ranger|CV-61|6}} 1983–1984
*[[USS Constellation (CV-64)]] 1984–1990
*{{USS|Constellation|CV-64|6}} 1984–1990
*[[USS Independence (CV-62)]] 1990–1993
*{{USS|Independence|CV-62|6}} 1990–1993
*[[USS Nimitz (CVN-68)]] 1995–2000
*{{USS|Nimitz|CVN-68|6}} 1995–2000, 2013-2017
*[[USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70)]] 1993–1994, 2003–2005
*{{USS|Carl Vinson|CVN-70|6}} 1993–1994, 2003–2005
*[[USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74)]] 2000–2003, 2006–2015
*{{USS|John C. Stennis|CVN-74|6}} 2000–2003, 2006–2015
*[[USS Mobile Bay (CG-53)]] 2011–2012
*{{USS|Mobile Bay|CG-53|6}} 2011–2012
*[[USNS Bridge (T-AOE-10)]] 2012–2013
*{{USNS|Bridge|T-AOE-10|6}} 2012–2013
*{{USS|Theodore Roosevelt|CVN-71|6}} 2019-current


== See also ==
== See also ==
{{Portal|United States Navy|Military of the United States}}
{{Wikipedia books|United States Navy Aircraft Squadrons}}
* [[History of the United States Navy]]
* [[History of the United States Navy]]
* [[List of United States Navy aircraft squadrons#Helicopter Squadrons|Helicopter Squadrons]]
* [[List of United States Navy aircraft squadrons#Helicopter Squadrons|Helicopter Squadrons]]
* [[CVW-11]]
* [[CVW-11]]
* [[SH-60 Seahawk]]
* [[USS Nimitz(CVN-68)]]

⚫
== External links ==
⚫
* [http://www.public.navy.mil/airfor/hsc8], http://www.public.navy.mil/airfor/hsc8


== References ==
== References ==
{{Reflist}}
{{Reflist}}
* [http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=32183/ HSC-8 Established], navy.mil
* [http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=32183/ HSC-8 Established], navy.mil
⚫
* [http://www.public.navy.mil/airfor/hsc8], http://www.public.navy.mil/airfor/hsc8

⚫
== External links ==
* [http://www.public.navy.mil/airfor/hsc8], http://www.public.navy.mil/airfor/hsc8
* [http://www.public.navy.mil/airfor/hsc8], http://www.public.navy.mil/airfor/hsc8


Latest revision as of 06:42, 7 June 2024

Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Eight
HSC-8 Emblem
Active1 November 1969 – present
Country United States of America
BranchUnited States Navy Seal United States Navy
TypeNavy Helicopter Squadron
RoleAnti-Surface Warfare (ASUW)
Combat Search & Rescue (CSAR)
Search & Rescue (SAR)
Special Operations (SpecOps)
Vertical replenishment (VERTREP)
Part ofCVW-11
Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific
Garrison/HQNAS North Island
Nickname(s)"Eightballers"
Motto(s)'Ready & Lethal: Victory Follows the Eightball!'
ColorsGreen and Black
EngagementsVietnam War
Operation Desert Storm
Operation Enduring Freedom
Operation Iraqi Freedom
Global War on Terror
Commanders
Current
commander		CDR Dan Thomas[citation needed]

Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Eight (HSC-8) "Eightballers" is a United States Navy helicopter squadron based at Naval Air Station North Island, San Diego, California. HSC-8 is attached to Carrier Air Wing 11[1] (CVW-11) and deploys aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt. HSC-8 was redesignated from HS-8 on 28 September 2007.

Mission

[edit]

Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Eight (HSC-8), "America's Premier Combat Helicopter Squadron", executes helicopter utility and light attack missions in support of Carrier Air Wing ELEVEN (CVW-11), USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) and Carrier Strike Group 9 (CSG-9) operations.

History

[edit]

HSC-8 traces its lineage to the second of two squadrons which bore the designation Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron EIGHT (HS-8). That Squadron which has become HSC-8 was established on 1 November 1969.

HS-8 squadron insignia

The first squadron designated HS-8 was established at Naval Auxiliary Air Station Ream Field, Imperial Beach, California on 1 June 1956. The first helicopters employed by the command were the HSS-1N Seabat. In September 1962 in compliance with the 1962 United States Tri-Service aircraft designation system the HSS-1N was redesignated the SH-34J Seabat. At the end of 1962 the squadron transitioned to the SH-3A Sea King. The squadron performed eight Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployments between 1957 and 1968 including combat tours in Vietnam. Notable achievements included a 1,200 mile medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) made by helicopter, the longest in history. Other squadron achievements included participation in the Apollo 6 space vehicle/crew recovery and performing more than 30 Combat Search and Rescue missions in North Vietnam. The squadron was disestablished in December 1968.

An MH-60S Seahawk Helicopter conducts VERTREP Operations

A year later on 1 November 1969, a new squadron was established and designated HS-8. Although the two squadrons are separate squadrons and the lineage of the first does not transfer to the second,[2] the newly established squadron adopted the former squadron's name, insignia and traditions in its honor. With the new squadron came new helicopters, namely the SH-3D Sea King. Notable achievements during the next decade included site surveys for the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission, a study of blue whale migration patterns, supporting President Richard Nixon during his working vacation aboard USS New Orleans and deploying in response to the Iranian hostage crisis. In 1975 the squadron transitioned to the SH-3H Sea King. In 1976 the American Bicentennial Committee honored HS-8 as a bicentennial command. The squadron's 19th deployment came in response to Desert Shield/Desert Storm in December 1990. This deployment was the last for HS-8 in the SH-3.

On 2 April 1993 HS-8 completed transition from the SH-3H into the new SH-60F and HH-60H Seahawk helicopters. The squadron's 20th WESTPAC deployment was from February to August 1994. HS-8 was a member of Carrier Air Wing 14 (CVW-14) aboard USS Carl Vinson. The 21st WESTPAC was concluded in May 1996 followed in September 1997 by an "Around the World Cruise" with USS Nimitz. Deployments after this were routine until 11 September 2001.

From November 2001 to May 2002 HS-8 and Carrier Air Wing Nine deployed in Operation Enduring Freedom. There they played a vital role in the campaign that ended with the removal of the Taliban government in Afghanistan.

HSC-8 redesignation ceremony 28 September 2007.
M240 machine gun is fired from a SH-60F Sea Hawk assigned to the "Eightballers" of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Eight (HS-8) during a training exercise. 2003

HS-8 made another WESTPAC deployment from January to September 2003 followed by their second "Around the World Cruise" from January to August 2005 aboard USS Carl Vinson. The squadron earned the Carrier Air Wing Nine Golden Wrench Award for superior maintenance and mission completion percentages as well as the Battle E Device (Navy Battle Efficiency Award) for the 2005 World Cruise. In early December 2005 an HS-8 helicopter and aircrew participated in filming a portion of the television show 24 where the helicopter was transporting the fictitious Russian president and his wife to the American presidents ranch.[3]

On 28 September 2007, at Naval Air Station North Island, Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Eight was redesignated as Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Eight and received its first MH-60S Seahawk with the armed helo kit. In January 2009, HSC-8 went on its first deployment with the MH-60S where it was joined by HSM-71 flying the MH-60R Seahawk aboard USS John C. Stennis. During this deployment, HSC-8 assisted in the filming of Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.[4]

Starting the first of two back-to-back eight-month deployment cycles, HSC-8 embarked on a WESTPAC deployment in July 2011. During deployment, the Eightballers accomplished the first-ever MH-60S Cruiser/Destroyer (CRUDES) detachment when they embarked in USS Mobile Bay. HSC-8 also assisted in counter piracy operations, successfully aiding in the capture of fifteen suspected pirates.

After a short turn around, HSC-8 departed on an eight-month surge deployment to the 5th Fleet Area of Responsibility in September 2012. HSC-8 deployed as part of Carrier Air Wing NINE (CVW-9) aboard USS John C. Stennis in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, maritime security operations, and theater security exercises. One of the highlights of the deployment was the rescue of a drowning man in the Straits of Malacca- the Eightballer’s first overwater rescue in several years. HSC-8 also participated in Operation Beacon Flash, a joint security exercise with the Royal Omani Air Force.

Squadron aircraft

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A rescue swimmer is lifted up to an HS-8 SH-60F.

First squadron designated HS-8 (1 June 1956 to 31 Dec 1968)

Second squadron designated HS-8/HSC-8 (1 Nov 1969 to present)

An HH-60H assigned to HS-8 prepares to taxi at NAF El Centro, CA.
An SH-3H of HS-8 dipping its sonar in 1989

Squadron awards

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  • National Bicentennial Command
    • 1976
  • Navy Unit Commendation
    • 1990
  • Meritorious Unit Commendation
    • 1985
    • 1987
    • 1996
    • 2003
  • Battle E Device (Navy Battle Efficiency Award)
    • 1980
    • 1983
    • 1986
    • 1995
    • 2005
    • 2009
    • 2012
    • 2017
  • Captain Arnold Jay Isbell Trophy for Antisubmarine Warfare Excellence
    • Eight Awards
    • 2006
  • Admiral Jimmy Thach Award for Best Carrier Antisubmarine Warfare Squadron in the Navy
    • Five Awards
    • 2006
  • Top Torpedo Award for Antisubmarine Warfare Excellence
    • 1982
    • 1983
    • 1984
    • 1991
    • 1992
  • Sikorsky Superior Maintenance Award
    • 1983
    • 1984
    • 1985
    • 2003
    • 2012
  • Navy Golden Anchor Award
    • 1991
    • 1997
    • 2016
    • 2017
  • Chief of Naval Operations Safety Award
    • 1983
    • 1985
    • 1986
    • 1990
    • 1994
    • 2002 "for 22 years and 72,000 flight hours without a Class 'A' mishap."
    • 2012
  • Naval Air Forces Medical Readiness Award
    • 2012
    • 2016
    • 2017

Ships deployed aboard

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See also

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References

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  1. ^ "Serving Speed and Violence since 1942!". Archived from the original on 16 February 2013. Retrieved 25 March 2022.
  2. ^ History.navy.mil
  3. ^ News.Navy.mil Archived 2008-10-05 at the Wayback Machine (Navy News Stand)
  4. ^ Navy.mil, Navy News Stand
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