41st Rescue Squadron


The 41st Rescue Squadron is part of the 347th Rescue Group at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia. It operates HH-60W Jolly Green II aircraft conducting search and rescue missions.

Mission

The 41st Rescue Squadron maintains combat-ready status as an HH-60W combat search and rescue squadron. This squadron specializes in combat rescue of downed aircrew behind enemy lines, using night vision goggles, low-level formation, air refueling, weapons employment, medevac, casevac, CAS and survivor recovery. Air Force rescue is one of the few USAF assets that directly support combat units of all military branches, including allied combat units, through means other than munition drops, or intel. Members assigned to this squadron rapidly mobilize, deploy and employ to provide combat and peacetime search and rescue in support of U.S. national security interests. The 41st also supported launch operations for the NASA Space Shuttle when that program was active. During forward combat operations the 41st, like other USAF helicopter Rescue assets, assume an Alert posture. With an average response time of 4 minutes from call to airborne, the "Pedros" are considered by many to be the fastest rescue asset in the United States military inventory.

History

The 41st has flown search and rescue missions from, 1952–1960, 1962–1987, and since 1989. It also recovered high-altitude atmospheric-sampling devices from, 1962–1987. Beginning in Mar 1989, the squadron has provided prelaunch security and safety surveillance of NASA launches and recovery or medical evacuation for Space Shuttle crewmembers.

Lineage

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Aircraft