On October 16, Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron (HM) 12 embarked on a significant mission to Titusville, Florida, to present an MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopter to the National Naval Aviation Museum (NNAM). This iconic aircraft will now be on loan to the Valiant Air Command (VAC), enriching the aviation museum’s collection.
“We’re thrilled to see the Airborne Mine Countermeasures (AMCM) community represented in this museum,” said HM-12 Commanding Officer Capt. Eric Johnson. “For many, AMCM is a lifelong career. I’ve urged our HM-12 Sailors to ‘Be the Legacy’—a reminder to honor the foundation laid by those before us in the mine countermeasures community and the Navy.”
The Sea Dragon, now housed at the VAC Warbird Air Museum, will remain on permanent loan from NNAM. Hill Goodspeed, NNAM’s deputy director, emphasized the importance of collaboration with partner museums to broaden the reach of naval aviation history. “The National Naval Aviation Museum’s founding mission in 1962 was to ‘select, collect, preserve, and display’ artifacts that represent Naval Aviation’s storied past,” said Goodspeed. The induction ceremony celebrated the rich legacy of the MH-53E Sea Dragon and honored the sacrifices of those who have served. Col. Kate Fleeger, Program Manager for the H-53 Heavy Lift Helicopters Program Office (PMA-261), highlighted the Sea Dragon’s critical role.
The MH-53E has two primary missions; Airborne Mine Countermeasures (AMCM) and Navy heavy lift/Vertical Onboard Delivery (VOD). Photo via US NAVY
“For nearly 40 years, the MH-53 has been a Navy workhorse in the Airborne Mine Countermeasures mission,” Fleeger said. “Beyond its AMCM duties, the Sea Dragon has supported heavy-lift operations, delivered mail and supplies in the Persian Gulf, aided in disaster relief, and even fought fires using water storage bladders—Bambi Buckets.”
Since its founding in 1977, the Warbird Air Museum in Titusville has grown thanks to aviation enthusiasts, veterans, and pilots dedicated to preserving America’s aviation history. The arrival of the MH-53E marks a historic moment, as it is the first—and possibly only—Sea Dragon to be displayed in a museum setting. Although 28 MH-53E helicopters remain in service, the fleet is scheduled to begin phasing out in 2025, with full retirement expected by 2027. Capt. Johnson reflected on the aircraft’s legacy. “It’s an incredible machine to fly, and it’s even more amazing to see the whole squadron come together to make this happen,” said Johnson. “The Sea Dragon has been an essential tool for tactical logistics and a strategic deterrent, ensuring shipping lanes remain clear of sea mines.”
Since its introduction in 1986, the MH-53E Sea Dragon has been pivotal in both mine countermeasures and heavy-lift operations. Outfitted with advanced technology, including mine-hunting sonar and detonation devices, the Sea Dragon has safeguarded naval fleets while also transporting troops and equipment. The Sea Dragon will be a centerpiece at the Warbird Museum, dedicated to preserving aviation history for future generations. Bonnie Towne, NNAM’s point of contact, played a key role in facilitating this historic transfer. DRAGON 437 (BuNo 163066), after serving for almost 40 years with Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron TWELVE will be prepared to be displayed at the Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum early next year.
Among those present at the ceremony was Scott Webb, a former MH-53E naval aircrewman with HM-14 and now an air traffic controller for the Federal Aviation Authority. For Webb, this event was deeply personal. “Seeing the MH-53E inducted into the museum I’ve visited since childhood is incredibly meaningful,” Webb shared. “It’s not just about the helicopter—it’s about honoring the missions we flew and knowing that our service will inspire others long into the future.” The induction of the MH-53E Sea Dragon not only commemorates the aircraft’s legacy but also honors the Sailors who have operated and maintained it for nearly five decades. Capt. Johnson expressed hope that this event marks the beginning of inspiring future generations to learn about naval aviation and the opportunities within military service. For more information about the Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum, visit www.valiantaircommand.com.
Born in Milan, Italy, Moreno moved to the U.S. in 1999 to pursue a career as a commercial pilot. His aviation passion began early, inspired by his uncle, an F-104 Starfighter Crew Chief, and his father, a military traffic controller. Childhood adventures included camping outside military bases and watching planes at Aeroporto Linate. In 1999, he relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, to obtain his commercial pilot license, a move that became permanent. With 24 years in the U.S., he now flies full-time for a Part 91 business aviation company in Atlanta. He is actively involved with the Commemorative Air Force, the D-Day Squadron, and other aviation organizations. He enjoys life with his supportive wife and three wonderful children.
Be the first to comment
Graphic Design, Branding and Aviation Art