NORFOLK, Va. –
Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron (HM) 12 held a sundown ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, March 21, closing the chapter on 54 years of excellence.
HM-12 retired the “Sea Dragons” insignia along with the nickname during the ceremony. HM-12 was established on April 1, 1971, at what was then called Naval Air Station Norfolk, but is now Chambers Field and is a part of Naval Station Norfolk. As the first squadron of its kind, HM-12 functioned uniquely as both an operational unit and as a readiness training squadron flying first the CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter, then transitioning to the MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopter.
“After serving 38 years in the Navy, there are certain tenets I abide my life and career by, and all of it started here at HM-12,” said Retired Vice Adm. Kevin Scott, who served as the ceremony’s guest speaker.
“This squadron has been around for 50 years, and they have armed their sailors and airmen to be ready to respond to the nations call globally, within 72 hours, throughout that 50 years, and I can’t think of a better testament than to celebrate that today.”
Capt. Eric R. Johnson, the commanding officer of HM-12, concluded the ceremony with his remarks.
“Sunning down is an end of an era and an exciting time for a transition in the Navy to modernize airborne mine countermeasures,” Johnson said. “This community has a lot of camaraderie and friends that have stuck together over the years.”
The sundown of HM-12 marks the end of an era and leaves HM-15 as the last Navy squadron flying the MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopter. This event celebrated the contributions and legacy of the people and the aircrafts that have played a pivotal role in Naval Aviation history.
Written by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Julianna J. Lynch with Naval Air Force Atlantic Public Affairs. 