Formed from Helicopter Combat Support Squadron SIX (HC-6) Detachment 53, Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron TWELVE (HM-12) was established aboard Naval Air Station Norfolk, Virginia on 1 April 1971. As the first squadron of its kind, HM-12 functioned uniquely as both an operational unit and as a readiness training squadron. This is the subdued version of their squadron patch and does not come with velcro attached.