The "Wolf Pack" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 75, "Battlecats" of HSM-73, and "Griffins" of HSM-79, helped kick off the 2016 Holiday Bowl when they performed a flyover at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego, Dec. 27.

Three MH-60R helicopters soared over 70,000 spectators at the stadium in a "V" formation following the national anthem.

"We're very proud to be able to represent Naval Aviation at such a huge event right here in our own backyard," said Cmdr. John Kiefaber, HSM-75's commanding officer. "Working with our fellow HSM squadrons to showcase our aircraft over the city that has given us so much support is an amazing opportunity."

Helicopter pilot Lt. j.g. Spencer Wiltz, a graduate of Washington State University, was proud to fly over his alma mater's football team.

"I'm incredibly honored to be able to represent my squadron and show support for the Cougars. It's a once in a lifetime opportunity," said Wiltz.

Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadrons 73, 75, and 79 are based out of Naval Air Station (NAS) North Island in Coronado, California. Built in 1917, NAS North Island is the largest helicopter base on the West Coast and is host to 23 aviation squadrons with more than 230 aircraft.

The MH-60R is the Navy's primary anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare aircraft. The MH-60R Seahawk helicopter is the world's most advanced maritime helicopter and operates from destroyers, cruisers, and aircraft carriers.

For more information on the squadrons and the MH-60R helicopter, visit Commander, Naval Air Forces website at: http://www.public.navy.mil/AIRFOR/Pages/pacificaviation.aspx

For more information, visit http://www.navy.mil, http://www.facebook.com/usnavy, or http://www.twitter.com/usnavy.

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