HSM-71 Squadron Patches

History of HSM-71 Raptors

Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron Seven One (HSM-71) is a United States Navy helicopter squadron based at NAS North Island, San Diego, California. Nicknamed the ‘’Raptors’’, they are attached to Carrier Air Wing Nine (CVW-9) and deploy aboard the USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74) Strike Group. The squadron was formed on October 4, 2007 and was the first fleet squadron to receive the MH-60R Seahawk (Romeo). It received its first Battle “E” in 2009, and was also awarded the Captain Arnold Jay Isbell Trophy for superior air antisubmarine warfare (ASW) in 2009 and again in 2010.

Helicopters have been a vital part our US Naval forces. With the introduction of helicopters the 101st Airborne division started deploying into battle mainly from helicopters as opposed to airplanes. An the helicopter patches are a representation of HSM-71 squadron missions and deployments.