HT-8 Eightball Shoulder Patch — Helicopter Training Squadron 8 / HSC-8 Eightballers Throwback Embroidered Patch The original Eightball — HT-8's classic shoulder design, a throwback to the training squadron roots of one of Navy helicopter aviation's most iconic squadrons. This shoulder patch represents another throwback design from Helicopter Training Squadron 8 (HT-8), honoring the original squadron designation that evolved into today's Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 8 (HSC-8), the "Eightballers." Based at Naval Air Station North Island, San Diego, HSC-8 is one of the Navy's premier Helicopter Sea Combat squadrons, assigned to Carrier Strike Group 9 (CSG-9) and embarking aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) as part of Carrier Air Wing 11 (CVW-11). The Eightballers' lineage traces back through multiple redesignations and mission evolutions — from training command to combat squadron — but the iconic eightball insignia has remained constant throughout. This particular shoulder patch features the classic HT-8 eightball design in a format meant to be worn on the shoulder of flight suits and tactical gear, connecting today's combat-proven HSC-8 aviators to their training squadron heritage. HSC-8 operates the MH-60S Seahawk in missions spanning anti-surface warfare, combat search and rescue, special operations support, vertical replenishment, search and rescue, and maritime interdiction. The squadron is part of Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific and has deployed extensively throughout the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean, and Middle East. The Eightballers' throwback patches are prized among squadron members who honor the unit's full history from HT-8 to HSC-8. Perfect For: HSC-8 Eightballers members and veterans, HT-8 alumni, MH-60S Seahawk aircrew and maintainers, CVW-11 and CSG-9 personnel, NAS North Island community, and Navy helicopter throwback collectors. HT-8 to HSC-8 — the Eightball never fades — a throwback patch for the squadron that's been behind the ball and ahead of the game since day one.
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