To its builder, Sikorsky Aircraft, it was the Model S-55.

To the Army and the USAF, it was the H-19.

To the Navy and the Coast Guard, the H04S.

To the Marines, it was known as the HRS.

 

WELCOME TO THE USMC SIKORSKY HRS DATABASE

           H (helicopter) R (transport) S (Sikorsky)

 

The  goal of this site is to compile as complete a database for the over 250 USMC HRS-1, HRS-2, and HRS-3 helicopters by attaching a squadron identifier (e.g., HR-4, HP-8) to a specific Bureau Number. Most HRS's were assigned to many squadrons during their careers and therefore, carried many different markings.

 

The database pages (Click the link on the left) currently holds hundreds of photographs of these magnificent helicopters in operation with the USMC, USN, and in civilian use. There were at least ten Marine transport squadrons which operated the HRS:

 

 

HMR-161, HMR-162, HMR-163, HMR-261, HMR-262, HMR-263, HMR-361, HMR-362, HMR-363, & HMX-1.

 

Compiling this data can only readily be done through photographs, personal logbook entries, and through accurate personal recall. Can you help?  If so, please email the webmaster.

WHY THE INTEREST?

 

My father, Roy N. Thorson, was a PBJ (B-25) pilot during WWII. When recalled for Korea in April 1951, he transitioned to rotor-wing, becoming the 523rd Naval helicopter pilot. He flew the HRS at Marine Corps Air Facility, Santa Ana with HMR-162, MAMS-16, and HMR-163 until April 1953. These Marines were a unique breed of pioneers; testing and proving the tactic of vertical envelopment and operations from aircraft carriers.