Command History
Command History:
October 1, 2021 marked the first day of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 50. The squadron was founded aboard Naval Station Mayport by a small cohort of personnel with the goal of building the squadron from the ground up. In the spring of 2022, HSM-50 received its interim Safe for Flight certification, paving the way for the squadron’s first flight on 20 APR 2022. HSM-50 continued its establishment process throughout the remainder of 2022, establishing its first detachment in June and earning its certification to stand search and rescue duty in October. HSM-50 was formally established on 18 NOV 2022. The Valkyries continue to work diligently and stand ready to answer the call of duty.
Name Background:
The origins of Valkyries stem from Norse mythology. They are legendary warriors that rode into battle on stallions wearing iconic winged helmets carrying their sword and shield. As warriors for Odin, Valkyries guarded the lives and ships of those in their protection. They also chose who would gain entry to Valhalla, the Great Hall in Asgard. The Valkyrie warrior stands for courage, honor, strength, truth, and wisdom.
Insignia Description:
The inner border of the insignia has five segments representing the HSM community’s five primary missions (ASW, SUW, EW, C2C, NCO). The five points of the segments are aligned to symbolize the nautical star, a traditional symbol of guidance and protection. The rotor blades on the sword hilt represent the MH-60R and its multi-mission capability. The sword blade represents our community’s ability to prosecute both surface and sub-surface targets, strike with lethal precision and, in so doing, guard the Fleet from any threats. The Valkyrie wings, mechanized in shape, represent the modern Sailor, their warrior ethos, and their ability to adapt and succeed.
The silver trimmed black banners of the insignia represent the power of our Sailors to achieve greatness. The black and navy-blue background in the center represent night. The silver color throughout the insignia represents the modern warrior and modern capabilities of the HSM community. Lastly, blue represents the sea and sky in which we operate and represents the loyalty and trust of our Sailors.