NORFOLK, Virginia by PO2 Julianna Lynch — U.S. Navy Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 26 has unveiled a specially painted MH-60S Seahawk to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States ahead of the International Naval Review (INR) 250 celebrations.
The aircraft features a custom tail design incorporating a blue field with 50 stars representing the U.S. states, combined with HSC-26’s traditional blue and yellow squadron colors. According to the squadron, the artwork honors both America’s 250-year history and the service of generations of U.S. military personnel.
The commemorative helicopter is scheduled to participate in the International Naval Review 250 events in New York Harbor, where it will represent the squadron during celebrations highlighting the U.S. Navy’s maritime heritage.
Senior Chief Aviation Electrician’s Mate John Mowins, Project Lead, “What makes this tail truly special isn’t just the paint, it’s the Sailors behind it. These young men and women spent countless hours carefully hand-painting every stripe and detail with pride, precision, and heart. They poured themselves into this aircraft because they understand what it represents: not just our squadron, but our country.”
Squadron Heritage
Originally established in 1967 as Helicopter Combat Support Squadron (HC) 6 before being redesignated HSC-26 in 2005, the ’Chargers’ have supported combat operations, search and rescue, humanitarian assistance, medical evacuation and special warfare missions around the world. The squadron currently operates the Sikorsky MH-60S Seahawk from Naval Station Norfolk.
About HSC-26: Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 26 (HSC-26), the ’Chargers,’ is a U.S. Navy helicopter squadron based at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia. Operating the Sikorsky MH-60S Seahawk, the squadron conducts logistics support, search and rescue, medical evacuation, special warfare support, humanitarian assistance and combat operations worldwide.