40th Helicopter Squadron US Air Force Patch

40th Helicopter Squadron US Air Force Patch (U.S. Air Force) 3.0" x 3.5" Embroidered Patch with Iron-On Backing

Superior Materials: Made with premium polyester thread and durable twill fabric, ensuring long-lasting color and strength.

Advanced Embroidery Technology: Crafted using the most advanced embroidery machinery, guaranteeing intricate detail, sharp lines, and consistent quality every time.

Easy Iron-On Application: Features a heat-activated adhesive backing for quick, no-sew attachment. Simply position, iron, and press for a secure bond.

Versatile Use: Perfect for personalizing jackets, backpacks, uniforms, or any fabric surface that needs a touch of personality. 

Durable and Washable: Designed to withstand everyday wear and occasional washing without fading or fraying.

Formations & Origins
The 40th Helicopter Squadron, part of the United States Air Force, was officially activated in 1956 and is based at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. The squadron initially operated as a utility helicopter unit and was tasked with providing support for a variety of missions, including search and rescue, transport, and reconnaissance. Over time, its mission expanded to include more specialized roles, and it became an integral part of Air Force operations. The squadron’s patch, reflecting its legacy, features a bold design that symbolizes the unit's dynamic role and versatility. The 40th Helicopter Squadron has always been an important asset in the Air Force, providing swift and agile support in a variety of environments, from combat zones to humanitarian operations.

Notable Commanders
While the 40th Helicopter Squadron has had numerous commanders throughout its history, the leadership of the squadron has been marked by figures who helped shape its capabilities and refine its mission focus:

• Colonel Richard R. Hall: One of the early commanding officers of the squadron, Colonel Hall was responsible for transforming the 40th into a more versatile and capable unit, pushing the squadron to meet the growing demands of the Air Force during the Cold War. His leadership helped solidify the squadron’s importance in both peacetime and wartime operations.

• Colonel Charles R. Kelly: Known for his leadership and commitment to mission excellence, Colonel Kelly’s time as commander of the squadron saw the 40th Helicopter Squadron develop a reputation for resilience and effectiveness. His role in transitioning the squadron to support newer, more advanced helicopter models was critical in ensuring the squadron remained at the cutting edge of military aviation.

Major Campaigns/Operations
The 40th Helicopter Squadron has been involved in a variety of high-profile campaigns and operations, from its early days to its more modern roles in contemporary conflicts:

• Vietnam War (1960s-1970s): During the Vietnam War, the squadron was heavily involved in airlift and combat support missions. Their primary task was to provide crucial logistical support and air mobility for U.S. and allied forces, transporting troops, supplies, and equipment in and out of dangerous areas. Helicopter operations were critical in the dense jungles and rough terrains of Vietnam, where traditional ground transportation was limited or non-existent.

• Operation Desert Storm (1990-1991): The 40th Helicopter Squadron played a key role in Desert Storm, particularly in search and rescue (SAR) missions, where they extracted downed pilots and personnel from behind enemy lines. The squadron's ability to perform these high-risk missions, often under heavy enemy fire, was a testament to their training and operational expertise.

• Humanitarian Operations: Over the years, the 40th has also participated in numerous humanitarian missions, including disaster relief efforts in the wake of natural disasters such as hurricanes and earthquakes. The squadron’s helicopters are well-suited to quickly deliver supplies, evacuate civilians, and provide support in areas where other forms of transportation are limited or unavailable.

Specialized Role/Equipment
The 40th Helicopter Squadron has consistently been tasked with providing versatile support in both combat and peacetime. Its helicopters are specially equipped for a range of missions that require speed, maneuverability, and adaptability in challenging environments.

• Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR): One of the primary roles of the squadron is to conduct CSAR operations. The squadron operates a fleet of helicopters specifically equipped for this purpose, including the HH-60 Pave Hawk and the MH-53 Pave Low helicopters. These aircraft are designed to carry out rescue operations in hostile environments, often under fire, and are equipped with specialized gear to assist in locating and retrieving downed airmen and soldiers.

• Personnel Recovery and Air Mobility: The squadron also plays a critical role in personnel recovery, moving personnel and supplies into and out of areas where traditional methods of transportation would be impossible. Their helicopters are outfitted with hoists, winches, and other recovery tools, making them invaluable for missions that require quick, high-risk extractions.

• Specialized Helicopter Fleet: Over time, the squadron has had a variety of helicopters at its disposal, each designed for a different mission. The HH-60 Pave Hawk, for example, is used for combat search and rescue operations, while the MH-53 Pave Low is capable of performing long-range, deep-penetration missions behind enemy lines, making it ideal for strategic operations. These helicopters are equipped with advanced avionics and defensive systems to operate in hostile environments.

Acts of Heroism
Throughout its history, members of the 40th Helicopter Squadron have been involved in numerous acts of heroism, particularly in rescue and combat operations where lives were on the line. Some notable instances include:

• Rescue Operations During Vietnam: The squadron’s pilots and crews performed countless daring rescue missions during the Vietnam War, retrieving downed airmen in hostile territory. One notable rescue involved the retrieval of a downed U.S. pilot under heavy enemy fire, where the helicopter crew showed exceptional bravery to get in and out of the area without taking casualties, despite the constant threat of ground-based and air threats.

• Operation Desert Storm Rescues: During the Gulf War, the 40th Helicopter Squadron’s aircrews were responsible for saving the lives of several downed airmen. One notable act of heroism involved the rescue of a pilot whose aircraft was shot down over Iraq. The crew of the HH-60 Pave Hawk faced tremendous risks, including enemy ground fire, but successfully extracted the downed airman and brought him back to safety.

• Rescue Efforts in Afghanistan: More recently, the squadron has been involved in rescue missions in Afghanistan, where its helicopters have been tasked with evacuating personnel from dangerous combat zones. In one particularly harrowing mission, a crew risked their lives to extract a group of soldiers stranded in a Taliban-controlled area. The mission was completed successfully, with no casualties, and highlighted the squadron’s commitment to their comrades in arms.

Legacy & Notable Achievements
The legacy of the 40th Helicopter Squadron is one of resilience, versatility, and heroism. Over its decades of service, the squadron has earned a reputation for its ability to perform difficult, high-risk missions and to provide critical support to the U.S. military in times of need.

• Pioneering Helicopter Operations: The 40th has played a major role in the evolution of helicopter operations within the Air Force. Its involvement in key missions, particularly in rescue and air mobility, has set the standard for other units in similar roles.

• Unit Citations and Decorations: The squadron’s history is decorated with awards for its outstanding performance in both combat and humanitarian operations. The 40th Helicopter Squadron has earned numerous commendations for its courageous and effective operations, including decorations for their efforts in Vietnam, Desert Storm, and Afghanistan.

• Training and Doctrine Development: Over the years, the 40th has contributed to the development of training programs and operational doctrine, particularly in the areas of combat search and rescue. Their experiences in the field have provided valuable lessons that have been incorporated into broader U.S. Air Force operations.

The 40th Helicopter Squadron continues to be a vital component of the U.S. Air Force, known for its ability to adapt to any situation and perform missions that require speed, precision, and bravery. The squadron’s patch, featuring a stylized helicopter slicing through the air, serves as a reminder of the unit’s enduring legacy and the remarkable men and women who have flown in its ranks. Whether it’s rescuing a downed airman or delivering vital supplies to a forward operating base, the 40th Helicopter Squadron stands ready to answer the call, no matter the odds.