HS-14
Encyclopedia
Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Fourteen (HS-14) is a U.S. Navy helicopter squadron permanently forward-deployed on NAF Atsugi, Japan and aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington
. They currently fly the Sikorsky
SH-60F and HH-60H models of the Seahawk helicopter and fly with the tail code NF.
, Japan and is attached to the USS George Washington
. HS-14 is under the administrative control of the Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing, Pacific Fleet
. The squadron is unique in that it is the largest Helicopter Anti-Submarine
squadron in the US Navy, with 34 officers, 250 enlisted personnel, and 12 helicopters. Typical HS squadrons have 24 officers, 200 enlisted, and 7 or 8 helicopters.
Like conventional HS Squadrons, HS-14's primary mode of operation is from the carrier. However, the Chargers have grown roughly 150% in order to simultaneously support two Anti-submarine warfare
detachments spread among the air capable ships of the USS George Washington
strike group whilst still providing first class service to the carrier. The Detachment A "The Chosen Ones" and Detachment B "The SwineBusters" are flexible anti-submarine units that further enhance the capabilities of the USS George Washington Strike Group. In the past year, Det A and B have gone underway on several ships, providing enhanced ASW coverage and flexibility to their host platforms.
in Stratford, Connecticut. The SH-60 Seahawk
is an all-weather, day and night multi-mission helicopter. The primary missions of the squadron are to detect, localize, and destroy enemy submarines and small surface vessels in the Anti-submarine warfare
(ASW) and Anti-Surface Warfare
(ASUW) roles. Additionally, the squadron is trained and equipped to conduct Search and rescue
(SAR), MEDEVAC
, Combat Search and Rescue
(CSAR), Naval Special Warfare operations (NSW)
, Anti-ship Missile Defense (ASMD) and Fleet Logistics support, including VERTREP
.
in San Diego, California and originally flew the Sikorsky SH-3H "Sea King" helicopter. Assigned to Carrier Air Wing TWO from 1984 to 1993, the Chargers deployed aboard the USS Ranger (CV-61)
. In 1989, while deployed off the coast of Vietnam in the South China Sea, HS-14 participated in one of the largest rescue operations ever by a deployed helicopter squadron when they rescued 37 Vietnamese refugees who were trapped aboard a foundering boat.
In 1991, HS-14 participated in Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm
. During Desert Storm, the Chargers participated in an operation that resulted in the capture of four Iraqi commandos on a small island off the coast of Kuwait. Additionally, HS-14 played an important role in the destruction of one Iraqi gunboat and two anti-shipping mines. In 1992, the squadron deployed in support of Operation SOUTHERN WATCH
to the Northern Persian Gulf and to the coast of Somalia in support of Operation RESTORE HOPE. In December 1992, the squadron surged to support the first eleven days of Operation RESTORE HOPE with such determination and efficiency that the operational commander wrote, "without HS-14, the first ten days of RESTORE HOPE simply could not have happened."
In May 1993, the squadron moved 175 men and women, seven aircraft, and all their support equipment from San Diego to Mayport, Florida in four days. The cross-country move was executed to embark on board the USS Constellation (CV-64)
for her transit around South America to San Diego. During this transit, the squadron participated in coordinated ASW with several South American navies.
In October 1993, the Chargers began the transition from the Sea King to the Seahawk helicopter. Soon afterward, military downsizing dictated the decommissioning of HS-12, a sister squadron in Japan. For HS-14, this meant an accelerated transition schedule and training program to complete a homeport change to Atsugi, Japan by October 1994. The squadron's progress in this endeavor was rewarded with a personal visit from then Chief of Naval Operations
, Admiral Frank B. Kelso.
HS-14 executed back-to-back deployments to the Persian Gulf
in 1998 and 1999, participating in Operation SOUTHERN WATCH
. Additionally, the squadron began its annual participation in the bilateral exercises FOAL EAGLE
and ANNUALEX . In 1998, the Chargers made the their permanent sea-based home, traveling to Hawaii aboard the USS Independence (CV-62)
in July for the complicated cross-deck move.
In early 2002, the Chargers played a role in supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan by deploying a detachment on board USS Kitty Hawk. During this deployment, Kitty Hawk served as a mobile staging base for elite U. S. Army special operations units. In March 2003, as the situation in Iraq escalated, HS-14 and Kitty Hawk received orders to participate in Operation IRAQI FREEDOM
. The Chargers were assigned to provide an NSW
capability to forward operating bases in support of SEAL operations. The squadron also affected the recovery of a CVW-5 strike fighter pilot who was downed in hostile territory.
After returning from the Persian Gulf, HS-14 participated in several training and operational deployments, including the historic PULSE EX 2004. This exercise represented a shift in naval policy from set "work-up" periods and deployment schedules to a rapid-responding, surge capable force. During PULSE EX the Navy deployed six carriers simultaneously around the world to demonstrate the projection of power available under the new doctrine. It was during this deployment that an S-3B Viking
from CVW-14 crashed on the remote and rugged island of Kita Iwo Jima. HS-14 deployed two Seahawks within three hours to Iwo Jima to conduct search and recovery operations. Working closely with USAF Pararescuemen (PJs) from the 33rd RQS, the USS LAKE CHAMPLAIN
and the USS GARY
, HS-14 was able to locate the wreckage, salvage parts of the aircraft and return the remains of the Viking crew. This accomplishment was noted in a personal letter from President Bush to the wife of one of the fallen aviators.
In the fall of 2004, an HS-14 detachment deployed two HH-60H helicopters on board the USNS GySgt. Fred W. Stockham (T-AK-3017) in support of Operation Enduring Freedom Philippines. The overall effort proved to be a success and established the HS community as a leading participant in the Global War on Terrorism. In the first week of December 2004, typhoons Imbudo and Namando struck the Philippines, causing extensive damage. The Chargers quickly transitioned from a special operations role to that of humanitarian assistance providers. The Chargers were able to provide immediate relief to the most stricken victims of the typhoons and rescue over 100 refugees, providing them critical medical assistance. At the same time, another Charger detachment was deployed on board the guided-missile cruiser to support several 7th Fleet ASW exercises, operating in conjunction with the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force
(JMSDF). Additionally, the squadron operated a third detachment out of Atsugi, Japan, completing an unprecedented operational commitment for an HS squadron.
After being deployed or detached 11 out of 12 months in 2004, the Chargers were back aboard in January 2005, operating off the southeast coast of Japan. In February 2005, the squadron deployed for routine training operations in the Okinawa Fleet Operations Areas. Simultaneously, HS-14 deployed a one-plane detachment and 18 personnel to the USS Cushing (DD-985)
to operate with DESRON 15 in bilateral ASW operations with the South Korean Navy.
After some rest and relaxation in Hong Kong, Carrier Strike Group Five, led by the carrier , headed north toward Korea for Operation Foal Eagle
. HS-14 remained busy for the rest of 2005, spending most of the year deployed and participating in exercises such as Talisman Saber, Orange Crush
, JASEX, SHAREM, MULTI-SAIL, and ANNUALEX.
The deployment kicked off with a short port call to Otaru, Japan, a suburb of Sapporo on the Japanese island of Hokkaido. After Otaru, the USS Carrier Strike Groyp Five, led by USS Kitty Hawk, joined up with Carrier Strike Group Nine, led by the , and Carrier Strike Group
, led by , along with Marine Corps, Air Force, and various foreign militaries for the largest operation in over a decade, Valiant Shield. This exercise involved more than 30 ships, 280 aircraft, and 22,000 sailors, marines, and airmen, and focused on the strike groups' ability to maintain a very robust air strike schedule while being attacked by multiple submarine and surface threats. HS-14 performed incredibly, scoring many simulated torpedo attacks on the American, Australian, and Singaporean attacking subs, while allowing almost no attacks against the carrier Kitty Hawk.
While defending the carrier from simulated sub-attacks, the Chargers also had a dedicated Combat Search and Rescue detachment working out of Guam. This detachment focused on joint operations with the Golden Falcons of HS-2
while conducting Naval Special Warfare insertions and extractions. The detachment also gave the crews a chance to learn different techniques when operating in low light, tactical environments. The Chargers worked with several other units from different services and countries during the remainder of the year. Further exercises included "Allies in the Outback", ANNUALEX, and an Atsugi CSAR Detachment.
on the island of Okinawa, Japan to practice weapons employment and terrain flying. The crews were able to take advantage of the area's weapons ranges and fired two AGM 114B Hellfire missiles and three Mk 46 practice torpedoes. Additionally, the Chargers practiced joint operations with multiple commands and services. HS-14 practiced anti-submarine warfare tracking and attacking techniques with the P-3 Orion
squadron, VP-4 "Skinny Dragons". The Chargers were also able to practice fast roping, rappelling, and High Altitude Low Opening and static-line paradrops with the 1st of the 1st Army Airborne Rangers. The 320th Tactics Squadron also worked with HS-14 practicing similar techniques.
Carrier Strike Group Five (CARSTRKGRU 5), led by the carrier Kitty Hawk, began another deployment in May, making stops in Guam, Sydney, Brisbane, Guam again, and Kuala Lumpur. HS-14 participated in multiple exercises during the deployment, including Talisman Saber, Valiant Shield, and Malabar 2007. Once again, HS-14 showcased its versatility, flying CSAR, ASW, VERTREP, Logistics, ASUW, and PHOTOEX missions throughout the summer. CARSTRKGRU 9 pulled into Yokosuka in September, only to depart again in early October for fall cruise. During a port call in Muroran, Northern Japan, HS-14 detached two HH-60H's and four aircrews to Misawa Air Base for FLIR/HELLFIRE training. The detachment rejoined the Kitty Hawk prior to ANNUALEX 19G, the naval portion of a larger US/Japan exercise. Following the exercise, Carrier Strike Group Five made international headlines when it was denied entrance to the port of Hong Kong for the Thanksgiving Holiday. HS-14 returned to Atsugi in early December, ending an eventful year of operations.
Detachment "B" joined USS Lassen
in January. Together, they conducted independent operations until March. HS-14's main body embarked Kitty Hawk for Sea Trials in March, followed by workups in April, to include a welcome return to Hong Kong. Detachment A embarked USS Shiloh (CG-67)
, USS Cowpens (CG-63)
, and USS Shiloh again from February through May. Carrier Strike Group Five (CARSTRKGRU 5) left Yokosuka in May, marking Kitty Hawks final departure from Japan. Detachment A rejoined the main squadron aboard Kitty Hawk for this cruise, while Detachment B took a much needed break in Atsugi. The strike group visited Guam in June, then proceeded to Hawaii, conducting Blue Water Operations along the way.
HS-14 and CARSTRKGRU 9 were treated to a port call in Honolulu just prior to participating in RIMPAC
2008. At the end of the port call, Detachment A, the "Misfits", debarked Kitty Hawk and embarked USS Rodney M. Davis (FFG-60)
as its air department for the exercise. The "Misfits" conducted intensive ASW operations with the Davis in a separate surface action group, providing invaluable support as a "pouncing" aircraft, as well multiple logistics flights in support of the ship. HS-14's main body aboard the Kitty Hawk provided similar support to Carrier Strike Group Five.
Following RIMPAC
, the Kitty Hawk proceeded to San Diego for the long awaited CVW-5 Hull Swap with . However, a major task needed to be completed before the Kitty Hawk could pull into San Diego. HS-14 provided VERTREP
for one of the largest ammunition offloads in recent memory. HS-14 managed to complete three days worth of "slinging bombs" in two days. The squadron moved over 900 loads, helping the Kitty Hawk to enter San Diego on time, and thousands of tons lighter.
CVW-5 flew off Kitty Hawk for the final time off the coast of California on August 6. HS-14 provided photographic platforms for the historic flyoff, then flew off to NAS North Island on the 7th. When HS-14 landed at North Island that morning, it marked 14 years since the squadron was forward deployed to Japan. After Kitty Hawk tied up at NAS North Island, CVW-5 immediately began the demanding crossdeck operation required to establish itself aboard its new home, USS George Washington (CVN-73)
. For two weeks in August, HS-14 was divided between the Kitty Hawk, the George Washington, and HS-4
's squadron spaces ashore. The squadron tried to allow sailors as much leave as possible, but completing the crossdeck was the priority.
The USS George Washington pulled out of San Diego with CVW-5 embarked on August 21, starting a new chapter for both units. HS-14 flew aboard that afternoon, and following a Blue Water Certification and workups over the next couple weeks, the GW began its trek west. The following month consisted of heavy flight operations for HS-14. The goal was to get CVW-5 and the George Washington Air Department working together as a cohesive team. The GW Strike Group pulled into Yokosuka on September 25, with HS-14 Helos providing channel guard services for the carrier. CVW-5 remained embarked for the 5 day "port visit".
2008 Fall Cruise began on September 30. HS-14 left a CSAR detachment back aboard NAF Atsugi for the month of October. Along with Detachment B, the composite detachment managed to qualify several pilots and aircrew in CSAR Syllabus. HS-14's main body continued to provide ASW and SAR service to USS George Washington as the Strike Group visited Pusan, South Korea, and Guam. Following the Guam port visit, Detachment A left GW to embark guided-missile cruiser , while Detachment B departed Japan aboard USS Lassen (DDG-82)
. Both ships joined the GW Strike Group for ANNUALEX 20G, an exercise involving US and Japanese surface, subsurface, and air units. During the exercise, HS-14 provided round the clock ASW coverage, with GW based helos covering days and detachment helos covering nights. The squadron scored numerous submarine kills, helping to validate the detachment concept. HS-14 and CVW-5 returned to Atsugi on November 21, marking nearly nine months of underway time for the air wing in 2008.
conducted continuous ASW missions in support of multinational operations. In conjunction with two permanent Detachments, the Chargers sent a temporary detachment to Darwin, Australia to work with Australia Special Forces
. As the Summer Deployment wound down, HS-14 celebrated both their 25th birthday on July 10 marking 25 years of service and 50,000 hours Class "A" mishap free.
During the Fall Deployment (October – November 2009), HS-14 flew over 500 additional Class "A" mishap free hours. While Chargers on board [. worked ASW for Talisman Sabre, Detachment Bravo conducted actual ASW operations tracking a Russian Oscar
. For the squadron's unequaled performance in its primary mission areas of Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) and Anti-Surface Warfare (ASU) they were awarded with the 2009 Captain Arnold Jay Isbell Trophy for Anti-Submarine and Anti-Surface Warfare Excellence.
have been conducting humanitarian flights over Japan since March 11 as part of Operation Tomodachi
from Naval Air Facility Misawa.
In the aftermath of the 2011 Thai floods
, the squadron joined other Navy personnel in providing humanitarian assistance and surveillance of flooded areas.
USS George Washington (CVN-73)
USS George Washington is an American nuclear-powered supercarrier, the sixth ship in the Nimitz class and the fourth United States Navy ship to be named after George Washington, the first President of the United States...
. They currently fly the Sikorsky
Sikorsky Aircraft
The Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation is an American aircraft manufacturer based in Stratford, Connecticut. Its parent company is United Technologies Corporation.-History:...
SH-60F and HH-60H models of the Seahawk helicopter and fly with the tail code NF.
A WESTPAC original
Flying with the call sign "Lightning," HS-14 is a member of Carrier Air Wing FIVE, stationed at the Naval Air Facility AtsugiNaval Air Facility Atsugi
is a naval air base located in the cities of Yamato and Ayase in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. It is the largest United States Navy air base in the Pacific Ocean and houses the squadrons of Carrier Air Wing 5, which deploys with the aircraft carrier...
, Japan and is attached to the USS George Washington
USS George Washington (CVN-73)
USS George Washington is an American nuclear-powered supercarrier, the sixth ship in the Nimitz class and the fourth United States Navy ship to be named after George Washington, the first President of the United States...
. HS-14 is under the administrative control of the Commander, Helicopter Sea Combat Wing, Pacific Fleet
United States Pacific Fleet
The United States Pacific Fleet is a Pacific Ocean theater-level component command of the United States Navy that provides naval resources under the operational control of the United States Pacific Command. Its home port is at Pearl Harbor Naval Base, Hawaii. It is commanded by Admiral Patrick M...
. The squadron is unique in that it is the largest Helicopter Anti-Submarine
Anti-submarine weapon
An anti-submarine weapon is any one of a range of devices that are intended to act against a submarine, and its crew, to destroy the vessel or to destroy or reduce its capability as a weapon of war...
squadron in the US Navy, with 34 officers, 250 enlisted personnel, and 12 helicopters. Typical HS squadrons have 24 officers, 200 enlisted, and 7 or 8 helicopters.
Like conventional HS Squadrons, HS-14's primary mode of operation is from the carrier. However, the Chargers have grown roughly 150% in order to simultaneously support two Anti-submarine warfare
Anti-submarine warfare
Anti-submarine warfare is a branch of naval warfare that uses surface warships, aircraft, or other submarines to find, track and deter, damage or destroy enemy submarines....
detachments spread among the air capable ships of the USS George Washington
USS George Washington (CVN-73)
USS George Washington is an American nuclear-powered supercarrier, the sixth ship in the Nimitz class and the fourth United States Navy ship to be named after George Washington, the first President of the United States...
strike group whilst still providing first class service to the carrier. The Detachment A "The Chosen Ones" and Detachment B "The SwineBusters" are flexible anti-submarine units that further enhance the capabilities of the USS George Washington Strike Group. In the past year, Det A and B have gone underway on several ships, providing enhanced ASW coverage and flexibility to their host platforms.
Mission areas
The Chargers currently fly the SH-60F and HH-60H Seahawk helicopters built by SikorskySikorsky
Sikorsky is an English-language respelling of the Slavic surname Sikorski. Derived from the Polish word sikora – meaning "chickadee/tit" – it was originally the name of a noble Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth family....
in Stratford, Connecticut. The SH-60 Seahawk
SH-60 Seahawk
The Sikorsky SH-60/MH-60 Seahawk is a twin turboshaft engine, multi-mission United States Navy helicopter based on the United States Army UH-60 Black Hawk and a member of the Sikorsky S-70 family. The most significant airframe modification is a hinged tail to reduce its footprint aboard ships.The...
is an all-weather, day and night multi-mission helicopter. The primary missions of the squadron are to detect, localize, and destroy enemy submarines and small surface vessels in the Anti-submarine warfare
Anti-submarine warfare
Anti-submarine warfare is a branch of naval warfare that uses surface warships, aircraft, or other submarines to find, track and deter, damage or destroy enemy submarines....
(ASW) and Anti-Surface Warfare
Anti-Surface Warfare
Anti-surface warfare is a type of naval warfare directed against surface combatants. More generally, it is any weapons, sensors, or operations intended to attack or limit the effectiveness of an adversary's surface ships....
(ASUW) roles. Additionally, the squadron is trained and equipped to conduct Search and rescue
Search and rescue
Search and rescue is the search for and provision of aid to people who are in distress or imminent danger.The general field of search and rescue includes many specialty sub-fields, mostly based upon terrain considerations...
(SAR), MEDEVAC
MEDEVAC
Medical evacuation, often termed Medevac or Medivac, is the timely and efficient movement and en route care provided by medical personnel to the wounded being evacuated from the battlefield or to injured patients being evacuated from the scene of an accident to receiving medical facilities using...
, Combat Search and Rescue
Combat search and rescue
Combat search and rescue are search and rescue operations that are carried out during war that are within or near combat zones.A CSAR mission may be carried out by a task force of helicopters, ground-attack aircraft, tankers and an airborne command post...
(CSAR), Naval Special Warfare operations (NSW)
United States Navy SEALs
The United States Navy's Sea, Air and Land Teams, commonly known as Navy SEALs, are the U.S. Navy's principal special operations force and a part of the Naval Special Warfare Command as well as the maritime component of the United States Special Operations Command.The acronym is derived from their...
, Anti-ship Missile Defense (ASMD) and Fleet Logistics support, including VERTREP
VERTREP
Vertical replenishment, or VERTREP is a method of supply of seaborne vessels by helicopter. The United States Department of Defense defines VERTREP as:- History :...
.
Command history
HS-14 was established on 10 July 1984 at Naval Air Station North IslandNaval Air Station North Island
Naval Air Station North Island or NAS North Island is located at the north end of the Coronado peninsula on San Diego Bay and is the home port of several aircraft carriers of the United States Navy...
in San Diego, California and originally flew the Sikorsky SH-3H "Sea King" helicopter. Assigned to Carrier Air Wing TWO from 1984 to 1993, the Chargers deployed aboard the USS Ranger (CV-61)
USS Ranger (CV-61)
The seventh USS Ranger is one of four Forrestal-class supercarriers built for the US Navy in the 1950s. Commissioned in 1957, she served extensively in the Pacific, especially the Vietnam War, for which she earned 13 battle stars. Near the end of her career she also served in the Indian Ocean and...
. In 1989, while deployed off the coast of Vietnam in the South China Sea, HS-14 participated in one of the largest rescue operations ever by a deployed helicopter squadron when they rescued 37 Vietnamese refugees who were trapped aboard a foundering boat.
In 1991, HS-14 participated in Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm
Gulf War
The Persian Gulf War , commonly referred to as simply the Gulf War, was a war waged by a U.N.-authorized coalition force from 34 nations led by the United States, against Iraq in response to Iraq's invasion and annexation of Kuwait.The war is also known under other names, such as the First Gulf...
. During Desert Storm, the Chargers participated in an operation that resulted in the capture of four Iraqi commandos on a small island off the coast of Kuwait. Additionally, HS-14 played an important role in the destruction of one Iraqi gunboat and two anti-shipping mines. In 1992, the squadron deployed in support of Operation SOUTHERN WATCH
Operation Southern Watch
Operation Southern Watch was an operation conducted by Joint Task Force Southwest Asia with the mission of monitoring and controlling airspace south of the 32nd Parallel in Iraq, following the 1991 Gulf War until the 2003 invasion of Iraq.-Summary:Operation Southern Watch began on 27 August 1992...
to the Northern Persian Gulf and to the coast of Somalia in support of Operation RESTORE HOPE. In December 1992, the squadron surged to support the first eleven days of Operation RESTORE HOPE with such determination and efficiency that the operational commander wrote, "without HS-14, the first ten days of RESTORE HOPE simply could not have happened."
In May 1993, the squadron moved 175 men and women, seven aircraft, and all their support equipment from San Diego to Mayport, Florida in four days. The cross-country move was executed to embark on board the USS Constellation (CV-64)
USS Constellation (CV-64)
USS Constellation , a Kitty Hawk-class supercarrier, was the third ship of the United States Navy to be named in honor of the "new constellation of stars" on the flag of the United States and the only naval vessel ever authorized to display red, white, and blue designation numbers...
for her transit around South America to San Diego. During this transit, the squadron participated in coordinated ASW with several South American navies.
In October 1993, the Chargers began the transition from the Sea King to the Seahawk helicopter. Soon afterward, military downsizing dictated the decommissioning of HS-12, a sister squadron in Japan. For HS-14, this meant an accelerated transition schedule and training program to complete a homeport change to Atsugi, Japan by October 1994. The squadron's progress in this endeavor was rewarded with a personal visit from then Chief of Naval Operations
Chief of Naval Operations
The Chief of Naval Operations is a statutory office held by a four-star admiral in the United States Navy, and is the most senior uniformed officer assigned to serve in the Department of the Navy. The office is a military adviser and deputy to the Secretary of the Navy...
, Admiral Frank B. Kelso.
HS-14 executed back-to-back deployments to the Persian Gulf
Persian Gulf
The Persian Gulf, in Southwest Asia, is an extension of the Indian Ocean located between Iran and the Arabian Peninsula.The Persian Gulf was the focus of the 1980–1988 Iran-Iraq War, in which each side attacked the other's oil tankers...
in 1998 and 1999, participating in Operation SOUTHERN WATCH
Operation Southern Watch
Operation Southern Watch was an operation conducted by Joint Task Force Southwest Asia with the mission of monitoring and controlling airspace south of the 32nd Parallel in Iraq, following the 1991 Gulf War until the 2003 invasion of Iraq.-Summary:Operation Southern Watch began on 27 August 1992...
. Additionally, the squadron began its annual participation in the bilateral exercises FOAL EAGLE
Foal Eagle
Foal Eagle is an annual combined Field Training Exercise conducted between the Republic of Korea and United States armed forces under the auspices of Combined Forces Command within the Korean Theater of Operations . It is one of the largest military exercises conducted annually in the world...
and ANNUALEX . In 1998, the Chargers made the their permanent sea-based home, traveling to Hawaii aboard the USS Independence (CV-62)
USS Independence (CV-62)
The fifth USS Independence is a of the United States Navy. It was the fourth and final member of the Forrestal-class conventional-powered Supercarrier...
in July for the complicated cross-deck move.
In early 2002, the Chargers played a role in supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan by deploying a detachment on board USS Kitty Hawk. During this deployment, Kitty Hawk served as a mobile staging base for elite U. S. Army special operations units. In March 2003, as the situation in Iraq escalated, HS-14 and Kitty Hawk received orders to participate in Operation IRAQI FREEDOM
2003 invasion of Iraq
The 2003 invasion of Iraq , was the start of the conflict known as the Iraq War, or Operation Iraqi Freedom, in which a combined force of troops from the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia and Poland invaded Iraq and toppled the regime of Saddam Hussein in 21 days of major combat operations...
. The Chargers were assigned to provide an NSW
United States Navy SEALs
The United States Navy's Sea, Air and Land Teams, commonly known as Navy SEALs, are the U.S. Navy's principal special operations force and a part of the Naval Special Warfare Command as well as the maritime component of the United States Special Operations Command.The acronym is derived from their...
capability to forward operating bases in support of SEAL operations. The squadron also affected the recovery of a CVW-5 strike fighter pilot who was downed in hostile territory.
After returning from the Persian Gulf, HS-14 participated in several training and operational deployments, including the historic PULSE EX 2004. This exercise represented a shift in naval policy from set "work-up" periods and deployment schedules to a rapid-responding, surge capable force. During PULSE EX the Navy deployed six carriers simultaneously around the world to demonstrate the projection of power available under the new doctrine. It was during this deployment that an S-3B Viking
S-3 Viking
The Lockheed S-3 Viking is a four-seat twin-engine jet aircraft that was used by the U.S. Navy to identify, track, and destroy enemy submarines. In the late 1990s, the S-3B's mission focus shifted to surface warfare and aerial refueling. The Viking also provided electronic warfare and surface...
from CVW-14 crashed on the remote and rugged island of Kita Iwo Jima. HS-14 deployed two Seahawks within three hours to Iwo Jima to conduct search and recovery operations. Working closely with USAF Pararescuemen (PJs) from the 33rd RQS, the USS LAKE CHAMPLAIN
USS Lake Champlain (CG-57)
USS Lake Champlain is a Ticonderoga class cruiser in the United States Navy. It is the third ship to be named Lake Champlain, in honor of Battle of Lake Champlain, which took place during the War of 1812.-Ship history:...
and the USS GARY
USS Gary (FFG-51)
USS Gary is an in the United States Navy. She was named for Commander Donald A. Gary .Gary was laid down on 18 December 1982 at San Pedro, California, by the Todd Pacific Shipyards Co., Los Angeles Division; launched on 19 November 1983; and commissioned on 17 November 1984.- Recent news :Gary...
, HS-14 was able to locate the wreckage, salvage parts of the aircraft and return the remains of the Viking crew. This accomplishment was noted in a personal letter from President Bush to the wife of one of the fallen aviators.
In the fall of 2004, an HS-14 detachment deployed two HH-60H helicopters on board the USNS GySgt. Fred W. Stockham (T-AK-3017) in support of Operation Enduring Freedom Philippines. The overall effort proved to be a success and established the HS community as a leading participant in the Global War on Terrorism. In the first week of December 2004, typhoons Imbudo and Namando struck the Philippines, causing extensive damage. The Chargers quickly transitioned from a special operations role to that of humanitarian assistance providers. The Chargers were able to provide immediate relief to the most stricken victims of the typhoons and rescue over 100 refugees, providing them critical medical assistance. At the same time, another Charger detachment was deployed on board the guided-missile cruiser to support several 7th Fleet ASW exercises, operating in conjunction with the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force
Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force
The , or JMSDF, is the naval branch of the Japan Self-Defense Forces, tasked with the naval defense of Japan. It was formed following the dissolution of the Imperial Japanese Navy after World War II....
(JMSDF). Additionally, the squadron operated a third detachment out of Atsugi, Japan, completing an unprecedented operational commitment for an HS squadron.
After being deployed or detached 11 out of 12 months in 2004, the Chargers were back aboard in January 2005, operating off the southeast coast of Japan. In February 2005, the squadron deployed for routine training operations in the Okinawa Fleet Operations Areas. Simultaneously, HS-14 deployed a one-plane detachment and 18 personnel to the USS Cushing (DD-985)
USS Cushing (DD-985)
USS Cushing , named for Commander William Barker Cushing USN and was the fifth ship of the United States Navy to carry the name. Cushing was a built by the Ingalls Shipbuilding Division of Litton Industries at Pascagoula, Mississippi...
to operate with DESRON 15 in bilateral ASW operations with the South Korean Navy.
Foal Eagle
Foal Eagle is an annual combined Field Training Exercise conducted between the Republic of Korea and United States armed forces under the auspices of Combined Forces Command within the Korean Theater of Operations . It is one of the largest military exercises conducted annually in the world...
. HS-14 remained busy for the rest of 2005, spending most of the year deployed and participating in exercises such as Talisman Saber, Orange Crush
Orange Crush
Crush is a carbonated soft drink brand, originally marketed as an orange soda, which was invented by California beverage and extract chemist Neil C. Ward. Most flavors of Crush are caffeine-free.-History:...
, JASEX, SHAREM, MULTI-SAIL, and ANNUALEX.
2006
June 2006 marked the start of another eventful summer deployment aboard the USS Kitty Hawk for the Chargers. Before deploying, HS-14 earned the "Golden Wrench Award" for having the most outstanding maintenance department in the airwing. This marked the third time the Chargers had taken home the award, more than any other squadron in CVW-5. With maintenance operating at full potential and the flight crews ready to fight, the Chargers were ready to start the cruise.Carrier Strike Group
A carrier strike group is an operational formation of the United States Navy. It is composed of roughly 7,500 personnel, an aircraft carrier, at least one cruiser, a destroyer squadron of at least two destroyers and/or frigates, and a carrier air wing of 65 to 70 aircraft...
, led by , along with Marine Corps, Air Force, and various foreign militaries for the largest operation in over a decade, Valiant Shield. This exercise involved more than 30 ships, 280 aircraft, and 22,000 sailors, marines, and airmen, and focused on the strike groups' ability to maintain a very robust air strike schedule while being attacked by multiple submarine and surface threats. HS-14 performed incredibly, scoring many simulated torpedo attacks on the American, Australian, and Singaporean attacking subs, while allowing almost no attacks against the carrier Kitty Hawk.
While defending the carrier from simulated sub-attacks, the Chargers also had a dedicated Combat Search and Rescue detachment working out of Guam. This detachment focused on joint operations with the Golden Falcons of HS-2
HS-2
Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 12 Golden Falcons is a United States Navy helicopter squadron based at Naval Air Station North Island, in San Diego, California...
while conducting Naval Special Warfare insertions and extractions. The detachment also gave the crews a chance to learn different techniques when operating in low light, tactical environments. The Chargers worked with several other units from different services and countries during the remainder of the year. Further exercises included "Allies in the Outback", ANNUALEX, and an Atsugi CSAR Detachment.
2007
After the winter holidays, HS-14 was back operating at full clip and taking advantage of the great training areas the Far East has to offer. The Chargers sent a four helicopter detachment to Kadena Air BaseKadena Air Base
, is a United States Air Force base in the towns of Kadena and Chatan and the city of Okinawa, in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. Kadena Air Base is the hub of U.S. airpower in the Pacific, and home to the USAF's 18th Wing and a variety of associate units.-Units:The 18th Wing is the host unit at Kadena...
on the island of Okinawa, Japan to practice weapons employment and terrain flying. The crews were able to take advantage of the area's weapons ranges and fired two AGM 114B Hellfire missiles and three Mk 46 practice torpedoes. Additionally, the Chargers practiced joint operations with multiple commands and services. HS-14 practiced anti-submarine warfare tracking and attacking techniques with the P-3 Orion
P-3 Orion
The Lockheed P-3 Orion is a four-engine turboprop anti-submarine and maritime surveillance aircraft developed for the United States Navy and introduced in the 1960s. Lockheed based it on the L-188 Electra commercial airliner. The aircraft is easily recognizable by its distinctive tail stinger or...
squadron, VP-4 "Skinny Dragons". The Chargers were also able to practice fast roping, rappelling, and High Altitude Low Opening and static-line paradrops with the 1st of the 1st Army Airborne Rangers. The 320th Tactics Squadron also worked with HS-14 practicing similar techniques.
Carrier Strike Group Five (CARSTRKGRU 5), led by the carrier Kitty Hawk, began another deployment in May, making stops in Guam, Sydney, Brisbane, Guam again, and Kuala Lumpur. HS-14 participated in multiple exercises during the deployment, including Talisman Saber, Valiant Shield, and Malabar 2007. Once again, HS-14 showcased its versatility, flying CSAR, ASW, VERTREP, Logistics, ASUW, and PHOTOEX missions throughout the summer. CARSTRKGRU 9 pulled into Yokosuka in September, only to depart again in early October for fall cruise. During a port call in Muroran, Northern Japan, HS-14 detached two HH-60H's and four aircrews to Misawa Air Base for FLIR/HELLFIRE training. The detachment rejoined the Kitty Hawk prior to ANNUALEX 19G, the naval portion of a larger US/Japan exercise. Following the exercise, Carrier Strike Group Five made international headlines when it was denied entrance to the port of Hong Kong for the Thanksgiving Holiday. HS-14 returned to Atsugi in early December, ending an eventful year of operations.
2008
HS-14 began 2008 with another weapons detachment to Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, beginning in early February. The detachment used four helicopters to fire Hellfire missiles, drop torpedoes, and conduct ASW, CSAR, NSW, and close air support (CAS) training with Marines, Air Force, and Army personnel. Despite less than ideal weather, the squadron met its training goals for the detachment.Detachment "B" joined USS Lassen
USS Lassen (DDG-82)
USS Lassen is an Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer in the United States Navy. Her current commanding officer is Commander W.C...
in January. Together, they conducted independent operations until March. HS-14's main body embarked Kitty Hawk for Sea Trials in March, followed by workups in April, to include a welcome return to Hong Kong. Detachment A embarked USS Shiloh (CG-67)
USS Shiloh (CG-67)
USS Shiloh is a Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser of the United States Navy, named in remembrance of the Battle of Shiloh in the American Civil War. She was built at the Bath Iron Works in Bath, Maine. The vessel is commanded by Captain James T...
, USS Cowpens (CG-63)
USS Cowpens (CG-63)
USS Cowpens is a Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser currently in service with the United States Navy.-Overview:The USS Cowpens is currently forward-deployed and is homeported at United States Fleet Activities Yokosuka in Yokosuka, Japan...
, and USS Shiloh again from February through May. Carrier Strike Group Five (CARSTRKGRU 5) left Yokosuka in May, marking Kitty Hawks final departure from Japan. Detachment A rejoined the main squadron aboard Kitty Hawk for this cruise, while Detachment B took a much needed break in Atsugi. The strike group visited Guam in June, then proceeded to Hawaii, conducting Blue Water Operations along the way.
HS-14 and CARSTRKGRU 9 were treated to a port call in Honolulu just prior to participating in RIMPAC
RIMPAC
RIMPAC, the Rim of the Pacific Exercise, is the world's largest international maritime exercise. Conducted biennially , it is hosted and administered by the United States Navy, with the United States Marine Corps, United States Coast Guard, and Hawaii National Guard forces under the leadership of...
2008. At the end of the port call, Detachment A, the "Misfits", debarked Kitty Hawk and embarked USS Rodney M. Davis (FFG-60)
USS Rodney M. Davis (FFG-60)
USS Rodney M. Davis is an of the United States Navy named for Marine Sergeant Rodney M. Davis , who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroism in the Vietnam War.Rodney M...
as its air department for the exercise. The "Misfits" conducted intensive ASW operations with the Davis in a separate surface action group, providing invaluable support as a "pouncing" aircraft, as well multiple logistics flights in support of the ship. HS-14's main body aboard the Kitty Hawk provided similar support to Carrier Strike Group Five.
RIMPAC
RIMPAC, the Rim of the Pacific Exercise, is the world's largest international maritime exercise. Conducted biennially , it is hosted and administered by the United States Navy, with the United States Marine Corps, United States Coast Guard, and Hawaii National Guard forces under the leadership of...
, the Kitty Hawk proceeded to San Diego for the long awaited CVW-5 Hull Swap with . However, a major task needed to be completed before the Kitty Hawk could pull into San Diego. HS-14 provided VERTREP
VERTREP
Vertical replenishment, or VERTREP is a method of supply of seaborne vessels by helicopter. The United States Department of Defense defines VERTREP as:- History :...
for one of the largest ammunition offloads in recent memory. HS-14 managed to complete three days worth of "slinging bombs" in two days. The squadron moved over 900 loads, helping the Kitty Hawk to enter San Diego on time, and thousands of tons lighter.
CVW-5 flew off Kitty Hawk for the final time off the coast of California on August 6. HS-14 provided photographic platforms for the historic flyoff, then flew off to NAS North Island on the 7th. When HS-14 landed at North Island that morning, it marked 14 years since the squadron was forward deployed to Japan. After Kitty Hawk tied up at NAS North Island, CVW-5 immediately began the demanding crossdeck operation required to establish itself aboard its new home, USS George Washington (CVN-73)
USS George Washington (CVN-73)
USS George Washington is an American nuclear-powered supercarrier, the sixth ship in the Nimitz class and the fourth United States Navy ship to be named after George Washington, the first President of the United States...
. For two weeks in August, HS-14 was divided between the Kitty Hawk, the George Washington, and HS-4
HS-4
Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Four is a helicopter squadron of the United States Navy established in 1952.-1952–1968:HS-4 was commissioned on 30 June 1952 at U.S. Naval Auxiliary Landing Field, Imperial Beach, California, equipped with the Sikorsky HO4S-3.HS-4 was the first...
's squadron spaces ashore. The squadron tried to allow sailors as much leave as possible, but completing the crossdeck was the priority.
The USS George Washington pulled out of San Diego with CVW-5 embarked on August 21, starting a new chapter for both units. HS-14 flew aboard that afternoon, and following a Blue Water Certification and workups over the next couple weeks, the GW began its trek west. The following month consisted of heavy flight operations for HS-14. The goal was to get CVW-5 and the George Washington Air Department working together as a cohesive team. The GW Strike Group pulled into Yokosuka on September 25, with HS-14 Helos providing channel guard services for the carrier. CVW-5 remained embarked for the 5 day "port visit".
2008 Fall Cruise began on September 30. HS-14 left a CSAR detachment back aboard NAF Atsugi for the month of October. Along with Detachment B, the composite detachment managed to qualify several pilots and aircrew in CSAR Syllabus. HS-14's main body continued to provide ASW and SAR service to USS George Washington as the Strike Group visited Pusan, South Korea, and Guam. Following the Guam port visit, Detachment A left GW to embark guided-missile cruiser , while Detachment B departed Japan aboard USS Lassen (DDG-82)
USS Lassen (DDG-82)
USS Lassen is an Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer in the United States Navy. Her current commanding officer is Commander W.C...
. Both ships joined the GW Strike Group for ANNUALEX 20G, an exercise involving US and Japanese surface, subsurface, and air units. During the exercise, HS-14 provided round the clock ASW coverage, with GW based helos covering days and detachment helos covering nights. The squadron scored numerous submarine kills, helping to validate the detachment concept. HS-14 and CVW-5 returned to Atsugi on November 21, marking nearly nine months of underway time for the air wing in 2008.
2009
During the 2009 Summer Deployment HS-14 participated in TALISMAN SABRE 2009. While the main body of HS-14 supported the air wing on the West coast of Australia, Detachment Bravo, on USS Mustin (DDG-89)USS Mustin (DDG-89)
The USS Mustin is an Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer in the United States Navy. She was named in honor of the Mustin family. Mustin was the first Burke destroyer built with her funnels submerged into the superstructure, an additional stealth measure taken on the warships...
conducted continuous ASW missions in support of multinational operations. In conjunction with two permanent Detachments, the Chargers sent a temporary detachment to Darwin, Australia to work with Australia Special Forces
Special Operations Command (Australia)
The Special Operations Command is a command within the Australian Defence Force . Special Operations Command was established in May 2003, to unite all of the ADF special forces units. As of 2007 Special Operations Command is fully operational. Australia's Special Operations Command is of...
. As the Summer Deployment wound down, HS-14 celebrated both their 25th birthday on July 10 marking 25 years of service and 50,000 hours Class "A" mishap free.
During the Fall Deployment (October – November 2009), HS-14 flew over 500 additional Class "A" mishap free hours. While Chargers on board [. worked ASW for Talisman Sabre, Detachment Bravo conducted actual ASW operations tracking a Russian Oscar
Oscar class submarine
The Project 949 and Project 949A Soviet Navy/Russian Navy cruise missile submarines ....
. For the squadron's unequaled performance in its primary mission areas of Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) and Anti-Surface Warfare (ASU) they were awarded with the 2009 Captain Arnold Jay Isbell Trophy for Anti-Submarine and Anti-Surface Warfare Excellence.
2010
From February 19 to March 5, HS-14 sent a detachment to Kadena AFB, Okinawa, Japan. During this detachment the squadron flew over 250 hours enhancing their readiness for the 2010 Deployment.2011
HS-14 alongside HSL-51HSL-51
Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Light Five One "WARLORDS" is a United States Navy helicopter squadron based at Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Ayase City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Honshū Japan...
have been conducting humanitarian flights over Japan since March 11 as part of Operation Tomodachi
Operation Tomodachi
is a United States Armed Forces assistance operation to support Japan in disaster relief following the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami. As of March 22, 2011, twenty U.S. naval ships, 140 aircraft, and 19,703 Marines and Sailors were involved in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief...
from Naval Air Facility Misawa.
In the aftermath of the 2011 Thai floods
2011 Thai floods
The 2011 Thai floods occurred at the end of March 2011, normally the latter part of the dry season in tropical Thailand. Heavy rain fell in the southern region, with over of rain falling in certain areas.-Impact:...
, the squadron joined other Navy personnel in providing humanitarian assistance and surveillance of flooded areas.
HS-14 Achievements
HS-14 celebrated over thirteen years and 50,000 mishap-free flight hours in August 2009. The squadron's impressive history is highlighted by many awards including- Navy Unit Commendation Medal - 1991 (OPERATION DESERT STORMGulf WarThe Persian Gulf War , commonly referred to as simply the Gulf War, was a war waged by a U.N.-authorized coalition force from 34 nations led by the United States, against Iraq in response to Iraq's invasion and annexation of Kuwait.The war is also known under other names, such as the First Gulf...
), 1998 (USS Independence (CV-62)USS Independence (CV-62)The fifth USS Independence is a of the United States Navy. It was the fourth and final member of the Forrestal-class conventional-powered Supercarrier...
) - Meritorious Unit Commendation Medal - 1989, 1994, and 1996 while attached to CVW-2, USS Ranger (CV 61), and the USS Independence (CV 62) Battle Group
- Six Battle Efficiency Awards - 1989, 1992, 1998, 1999, 2003, and 2004
- Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal - 1987, 1989, 1991, 1992, 1998, 1999, and 2003
- Joint Meritorious Unit Award - 1993
- Humanitarian Service Medal - 2001 (USS Gary (FFG-51)USS Gary (FFG-51)USS Gary is an in the United States Navy. She was named for Commander Donald A. Gary .Gary was laid down on 18 December 1982 at San Pedro, California, by the Todd Pacific Shipyards Co., Los Angeles Division; launched on 19 November 1983; and commissioned on 17 November 1984.- Recent news :Gary...
) - Southwest Asia Service Medal -1991
- Eight Chief of Naval Operations Safety Awards - 1989, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1998, 1999, 2001, and 2006
- Two consecutive DESRON SEVEN "Golden Arrow" Awards
- Eight Arnold J. Isbell Awards for ASW excellence - 1993, 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2005, 2007, and 2009
- Admiral John S. Thatch Award for ASW excellence - 2003
- Three CVW-5 Maintenance Excellence "Golden Wrench" Awards – 2nd Qtr. 03, 2nd Qtr. 04, 4th Qtr. 04, 1st Qtr. 06
See also
- History of the United States NavyHistory of the United States NavyThe history of the United States Navy divides into two major periods: the "Old Navy", a small but respected force of sailing ships that was also notable for innovation in the use of ironclads during the American Civil War, and the "New Navy", the result of a modernization effort that began in the...
- List of United States Navy aircraft squadrons
- Carrier Strike Group ElevenCarrier Strike Group ElevenCarrier Strike Group Eleven, abbreviated CSG-11 or CARSTRKGRU 11, is one of six U.S. Navy carrier strike groups currently assigned to the U.S. Pacific Fleet. U.S...