New branch open for business
Helicopter Crewman (HCM) was officially established as a trade in October 2005.
Helicopter Crewmen have historically been employed as a part time trade, with individuals conducting their flying duties in addition to core trade duties.
With the arrival of the SH-2G model Seasprite, it was thought that HCM would become a thing of the past, but experience has proved that a third crewmember is necessary.
Image on right: Two of the new Helicopter Crewmen are presented with their Helicopter Crewman Brevets by Commanding Officer PHILOMEL at No. 3 Squadron, Ohakea 11 October 2005.
The establishment of HCM as a trade was officially recognised on 31 October 2005, when No. 6 Squadron was also re-established. Helicopter support to the Navy has been provided through Naval Support Flight (part of No 3 Squadron) since 1977. No. 6 Squadron was re-formed as an independent squadron that will assume the responsibilities for, and activities of, providing helicopter support to Naval operations.
The aviation trades of the Navy can now look to the future, with a newly established trade and a re-formed Squadron to ensure further capabilities and efficiencies for our Navy.