The first squadron designated HS-8 was established at Naval Auxiliary Air Station Ream Field, Imperial Beach, California on 1 June 1956.

In September 1962 in compliance with the 1962 United States Tri-Service aircraft designation system the HSS-1N was redesignated the SH-34J Seabat.

The squadron performed eight Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployments between 1957 and 1968 including combat tours in Vietnam.

Notable achievements included a 1,200 mile medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) made by helicopter, the longest in history.

Other squadron achievements included participation in the Apollo 6 space vehicle/crew recovery and performing more than 30 Combat Search and Rescue missions in North Vietnam.

Notable achievements during the next decade included site surveys for the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission, a study of blue whale migration patterns, supporting President Richard Nixon during his working vacation aboard USS New Orleans and deploying in response to the Iranian hostage crisis.

HSC-8 also assisted in counter piracy operations, successfully aiding in the capture of fifteen suspected pirates.

HSC-8 also participated in Operation Beacon Flash, a joint security exercise with the Royal Omani Air Force.