The U.S. Navy has qualified its final two MH-53E Sea Dragon pilots. Lieutenants Keven Humphreys and Jack Griffin are now fully fledged, bringing to a close a remarkable 42-year chapter in the history of this mighty helicopter.
Photos: U.S. Navy
The MH-53E, a true workhorse of the fleet since its introduction in 1982, has played a vital role in mine countermeasures and heavy-lift operations. As the sun sets on the Sea Dragon’s operational life, with a formal retirement ceremony planned for March 2025, these two young aviators find themselves holding a unique place in history.
Both men embarked on their naval careers with a desire to serve, but neither initially envisaged themselves at the controls of the Sea Dragon. Humphreys credits the inspiration for his aviation journey to a close friend’s brother who became a Marine Corps fighter pilot. “Growing up, I looked up to my best friend’s brother,” Humphreys shared. “I knew I wanted to serve and become a leader in the military, but becoming a pilot wasn’t initially part of my plan. Seeing him as a leader and a pilot was pretty cool, though.”
Griffin, meanwhile, has been struck by the camaraderie within the MH-53E community. “The MH-53E community is extremely tight-knit,” he explained. “There is a close relationship between pilots and aircrewmen. Everyone is down-to-earth and focused on the mission. I really appreciate how well the crews work together to get the job done.”
Humphreys and Griffin completed their training with Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron (HM) 12 in Norfolk, a unit that has played a pivotal role in preparing generations of Sea Dragon pilots. Since 1986, HM-12 has been responsible for qualifying over 580 naval aviators on the MH-53E.
Even as the Sea Dragon’s retirement looms, these two newly qualified pilots remain focused on their upcoming missions. They are actively preparing for deployment, demonstrating their dedication to their roles and the enduring spirit of naval aviation. “We are excited to be here,” Griffin affirmed. “We love what we do and where we are right now.”
A special ceremony is planned to honor Griffin and Humphreys, recognizing their achievements and the lasting legacy of the MH-53E. It will mark a bittersweet moment, celebrating the contributions of an iconic aircraft and acknowledging the closing of a significant chapter in naval aviation.
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