From 2003 to 2006, Helicopter Combat Support Special Squadrons FOUR and FIVE supported combat operations in Iraq as part of Commander, Joint Special Operations Air Command, providing life-saving fire support, CASEVAC and target infiltration to our comrades-in-arms.
Missions flown by HCS gunners were "combat" in the purest sense. Aircrews logged over 2500 missions in three years, capturing over 500 deadly insurgent operatives, expending thousands of rounds, and brought all squadron and SPECOP personnel home safe. Historically, the Sea Services awarded the Combat Aircrew Insignia to enlisted personnel engaged in aerial combat. Following the Korean War, the Department of the Navy created Enlisted Aircrew Wings to represent all enlisted Aircrew personnel. The U.S. Marine Corps retained the special Combat Aircrew Insignia, to recognize and distinguish Aircrewmen who engaged in direct combat missions. Due to the unique and extreme operations performed by HCS squadrons in Iraq, Firehawk and Redwolf gunners should be similarly recognized. To this day, Redwolf gunners continue to support ongoing operations in Iraq, and in March 2009 will celebrate six years of continued operations in the AOR.
In 1997, the legendary Seawolves of HA(L)-3 fought a similar battle, and won.
A major breakthrough occurred in 1984 when Richard A. Chaffee, Seawolf Gunner, revealed that he had petitioned the Bureau of Naval Personnel to determine his eligibility to wear the Combat Aircrew Insignia. Permission was granted. Shortly thereafter, a formal request was sent to the Chief of Naval Personnel, requesting that all Seawolf gunners be similarly recognized, and be retroactively awarded the Combat Aircrew Insignia. The request was positively endorsed throughout the Navy chain of command and forwarded to the Commandant of the Marine Corps. On 3 January 1997, approval was granted. All Seawolf gunners meeting established criteria are now authorized to wear the Combat Aircrew Insignia.
Beginning in early 2009, a similar battle will begin for HCS aircrews, looking to gain authorization to wear Combat Aircrew Wings. All necessary documentation has been organized, and will soon be submitted to the chain of command. If you can help us in any way, please contact us at firehawk@hcs-5.org.
