 | This article relies largely or entirely on a single source. (November 2010) |
| Helicopter Training Squadron 8 | |
|---|---|
_insignia_2016.png) HT-8 Insignia | |
| Active | 3 December 1950 - Present |
| Country |  United States of America |
| Branch |  United States Navy |
| Role | Rotary Training |
| Size | Approximately 225 (55 Instructor Pilots/170 Students) |
| Part of | Training Air Wing Five |
| Garrison/HQ | NAS Whiting Field |
| Nickname(s) | "Eightballers" |
| Motto(s) | "America's Squadron" |
| Colors | Red, Blue, and White |
| Mascot(s) | 8-Ball |
| Commanders | |
| Commanding Officer | CDR Keith Johnson, USN |
| Executive Officer | CDR Darin Stockman, USN |
Helicopter Training Squadron EIGHT (HT-8) is a United States Navy helicopter training squadron based at Naval Air Station Whiting Field in Milton, FL.[1] The squadron's mission is helicopter pilot training for U. S. Navy, U. S. Marine Corps and U. S. Coast Guard Student Naval Aviators and for selected foreign military flight students from basic helicopter flight training through winging. Student Naval Aviators report to HT-8 for helicopter training upon completion of primary flight training conducted in the T-6B Texan II U. S. Navy primary flight trainer. HT-8 flies the TH-73A Thrasher, an
AgustaWestland AW119 Koala modified to navy specification. The unit generally uses the call sign "Eight Ball" over the radio.