History of 771 Naval Air Squadron

771 Naval Air Squadron was formed in 1939 at Lee on Solent as a Fleet Requirements Unit flying a variety of fixed wing aircraft. In 1945 it received the Hoverfly helicopter, making 771 the first naval air squadron to operate helicopters. Between 1945 and 1947 certain elements of 771 were relocated to other squadrons. Headquarters were maintained at Ford and became the Southern Fleet Requirements Unit before finally disbanding in 1955. The squadron reformed in total in 1961 at RNAS Portland as a helicopter trials squadron for Whirlwind and Wasp helicopters. Early tasks included pioneering techniques now commonplace among many Search and rescue squadrons - the free diver drop, the hi-line transfer and helicopter in-flight refueling.

771 Squadron assumed the dedicated SAR role with the introduction of the Whirlwind HAR 3 and, moved to its present home at RNAS Culdrose in 1974. The Whirlwind was soon replaced by the Wessex Mk 1 and later, in 1979, came the twin turbine powered Wessex Mk 5. In 1988, the by then ageing Wessex helicopters were replaced by the Westland Sea King Mk 5. With the Sea King's greater lifting capacity, longer range and improved avionics, the squadron assumed a long range, day/night, and all weather SAR capability.

The hornets on the Squadron's crest originate from the early days when, among other aircraft, the Squadron flew the Sea Hornet. In addition, the Squadron long ago adopted the Ace of Clubs as a logo and this is proudly displayed on the nose and sides of its aircraft. Since the Squadron's arrival in the South West, the distinctive red and grey livery of its helicopters has become a familiar and welcome sight around the Cornish coasts.

Twenty four hours a day, 365 days a year, the men and women of 771 remain ready, holding true to their motto: "Not unto us alone."