In 1970, HS-2 was the first helicopter squadron to travel across the United States for deployment in a ship from the other coast. In that year, the squadron participated in operations with U.S. Forces responding to the Jordanian Crisis. During this deployment the American flag was painted on the helicopters so they could be distinguished from the Israeli H-3s, which might also be operating in the combat zone. To commemorate the event, the Chief of Naval Operations authorized the American flag to become a permanent part of HS-2's paint scheme. As a result of its superior performance during that period, the squadron was awarded the Navy Unit Commendation.