1 HS celebrates 50th anniversary at gala event

Guests mingle during the 1st Helicopter Squadron's 50th anniversary gala at Joint Base Andrews, Md., Dec. 6, 2019. July 1, 1969 the U.S. Air Force activated the 1st HS to assume control of a proud past of helicopter operations at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, and JBA. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Spencer Slocum)

Distinguished guests clap for the introduction of the mess president, Air Force Col. Anne-Marie Contreras, 811th Operations Group commander, during the 1st Helicopter Squadron's 50th anniversary gala at Joint Base Andrews, Md., Dec. 6, 2019. Since its activation as the 1st HS, the unit has provided local airlift for senior military, civilian leaders, high-ranking dignitaries, distinguished visitors, Defense Support of Civil Authorities and emergency medical evacuation. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Spencer Slocum)

Hats representing different branches of the military rest on a “Missing Man Table” during the 1st Helicopter Squadron's 50th anniversary gala at Joint Base Andrews, Md., Dec. 6, 2019. The 1st HS operates the “Huey” conducting high-priority airlift missions and contingency response in the National Capital Region while functioning as the largest helicopter squadron in the Air Force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Spencer Slocum)

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Gréta K. Ásgeirsson, a U.S. Air Force Band principal harpist, plays during the opening of the 1st Helicopter Squadron’s 50th anniversary gala at Joint Base Andrews, Md., Dec. 6, 2019. The 1st HS operates the UH-1N Iroquois “Huey” conducting high-priority airlift missions and contingency response in the National Capital Region. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Spencer Slocum)