This is the regular-sized, subdued-version of the squadron patch for HSC-28. Helicopter Combat Support Squadron (HC) 8 was redesignated, in early 2005 asÊHelicopter Sea Combat Squadron 28 (HSC-28ÊThe ÒDragon Whales!Ó)Êas part of a merger of the HC and helicopter anti-submarine (HS) communities. The change came as a result of the introduction of the MH-60S ÒKnighthawkÓ, replacing the CH-46D ÒSea KnightÓ, UH-3H Sea King and the SH-60F Seahawk, and the future introduction of the MH-60R Seahawk, which is replacing the SH-60B Seahawk. TheÊDragon WhalesÊof HC-8ÊflewÊtheÊCH-46ÒSea KnightÓÊand performed search and rescue and vertical replenishment in support of the Atlantic Fleet. HC-8 also operated the Atlantic Fleet Helicopter Operations School (HELIOPS) providing Landing Signalman Enlisted (LSE), Helicopter Instrument Ground School (HIGS), Helicopter Control Officer (HCO), and night vision goggles training. ÊHSC-28 now flies solely the MH-60S ÒKnighthawkÓÊto perform Search and Rescue (SAR) and vertical replenishment (VERTREP) as well as, with the implementation of the armed helo upgrade, the ability to support Special Operation Forces (SOF), Anti-Surface Warfare (ASUW), and Personnel Recovery (PR) mission areasÊin support of the Atlantic Fleet.
