WANTED!: USAF 212th RQS Alaska Pararescue Team Patch

212th RQS Alaska Pararescue Team Patch.

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WANTED!: Sikorsky Aircraft / Jolly Green Giant - Pararescue Challenge Coin

 Challenge coin produced by Sikorsky Aircraft, it features the Green Giant Pararescue footprint and Pararescue motto -- "That Others May Live." The reverse of the coin features the "Winged-S" Emblem of Sikorsky Aircraft. these were produced and distributed around 2002.

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USAF 103rd RQS / Pararescue / Cheshire Cat Patch

USAF 103rd RQS / Pararescue / Cheshire Cat Patch

The Cheshire Cat is a fictional cat popularized by Lewis Carroll's depiction of it in Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. Due the crazy behavior of this character in this depiction, the PJ's adopted this cartoon as a logo for this patch to represent the dangerous nature of their missions which not everyone would be capable to go; only someone MAD...

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USAF 33rd RQS / Coleman Patch

USAF 33rd RQS / Coleman / Jolly Green Patch
I have no clue about what ¨Coleman¨ means. Got some info about this patch?

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USAF 33rd RQS / Detachment 1 Patch

USAF 33rd RQS / Detachment 1 / Jolly Green Patch

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USAF 301st RQS Patch

USAF 301st RQS Patch

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USAF / Pararescue Name Tag Patches

1. USAF 33rd RQS / Green Feet / Pilot Wings / Nametag Patch (Japanese Made)
2. USAF / Pararescue / Green Feet / Chief Enlisted Aircrew Wings / SSgt. / Nametag Patch (Japanese Made)
3. USAF / Pararescue / Green Feet / Blood Type / Senior Pilot Wings / Senior Parachutist Badge / SMsgt / Nametag Wing Patch (Japanese Made)

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USAF / Pararescue Name Tag Patches

1. USAF Pararescue / Green Feet / Chief Enlisted Aircrew Wings / Nametag Patch (Japanese Made)
2. USAF Pararescue / Pregnant Angel / Chief Enlisted Aircrew Wings / Nametag Patch (Japanese Made)
3. USAF CCT-Pararescue / Military Freefall Parachutist / Enlisted Aircrew Member Wings / Nametag Patch (Japanese Made)

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USAF Rescue / Jolly Green CH-53 / Nametag Wing Patch

USAF Rescue / Jolly Green CH-53 / Nametag Wing Patch

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USAF Jolly Green / 100 Missions Patch

USAF Jolly Green / 100 Missions Patch

(Made in Japan)

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USAF 33rd RQS / Jolly Green / 2¨ inch Patch

USAF 33rd RQS / Jolly Green / 2¨ inch Patch

Japan Made / Rare!

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USAF 33rd RQS / Gunner #13 / Subdued Patch

USAF 33rd RQS / Gunner #13 / HH-60 Pave Hawk / Subdued Patch

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ARINC HH-60 / Jolly Green / Flight Test Patch

ARINC HH-60 / Jolly Green / Flight Test Patch

ARINC's Flight Operations service can keep the fleet in top shape, no matter where in the world it's located. Their expert team will come in-site, thoroughly test the aircraft, and free up the personnel to perform real-world missions.

ARINC's flight operations services include functional check flights, operational check flights, acceptance test profiles, and other flights that support U.S. Department of Defense operations. Their experienced crews conduct ferry flights and perform pre-induction checks on aircraft undergoing modifications. Their mobile flight crews can also accompany the squadron to other locations. ARINC's flight operations specifications fully meet the strict guidelines of AFI 10-220V1, Contractor's Flight and Ground Operations.

ARINC began performing flight operations services in 1991 in support of the MH-53J Service Life Extension Program. Today, they support MH-53 operations at Hurlburt Field, Florida; H-60 operations at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, and Okinawa, Japan; and Coast Guard C-130 operations at Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

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USAF 33rd ARRS / Stan Eval / Jolly Green Patch

USAF 33rd ARRS / Stan Eval (Standardization/Evaluation) / Jolly Green / Subdued Patch

Japan Made

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USAF AC-130 Spectre Special Ops / Operation Restore Democracy Patch

USAF AC-130 Spectre Special Ops / Operation Restore Democracy / SPECTRE / Jolly Green Patch (Japan Made)

Operation Uphold Democracy, the U.S.-led, multinational effort to create a safe and secure environment and support the return of exiled President Jean-Bertrand Aristide to Haiti, was conducted from September 1994 through March 1996. In excess of 20,000 American service men and women from the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard, in conjunction with approximately 5,000 non-U.S. forces from 24 nations, served as part of the Multinational Force, and later, United Nations Mission in Haiti. Upon direction of President Bill Clinton, the operation was conducted by U.S. Atlantic Command, in Norfolk, Va.

 

President Aristide was elected in December 1990 as the first democratically-elected head of state in Haitian history. Seven months after taking office in February 1991, President Aristide was overthrown in a coup led by Lt. Gen. Raoul Cedras, the head of the Forces Armees d'Haiti (FAd'H). This eventually would be the impetus for renewed U.S. operational involvement in Haiti.

 

A United Nations international embargo began in late June 1993. In support of the international embargo, USACOM activated Joint Task Force 120 in mid-October to conduct maritime interdiction operations and increase pressure on the illegitimate government of Haiti. To provide humanitarian assistance to more than 21,000 Haitians escaping by sea from political strife, USACOM established a second JTF, JTF 160, on May 18, 1994. The mission of JTF 160 included migrant interdiction and processing, both at sea and at designated migrant camp sites ashore. The largest of these migrant camp sites was at the U.S. Naval Base at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

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USAFE Personnel Recovery Coordination Center Patch

USAFE Personnel Recovery Coordination Center Patch 

Korean Made

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USAF Pararescue / Vietnam Era / Very Rare Patch!

Original Vietnam War USAF Pararescue / Hand Sewn Patch

Extremely original hard to find collector patch!

This is a rare Vietnam War Theater Made  "PARARESCUE" embroidered patch. It has a typical theater made design of heavy cotton duck cloth with hand embroidered floss throughout. The condition is very good to near excellent with hardly any soiling or stains.  The patch measures approx 2-3/4 inches in diameter, as shown.

The patches of the Vietnam war present a very interesting study because this is the first time where a fairly large number of in-country made patches were developed. The government issued patches had some new designs and saw the introduction of the subdued styles. Several soldiers took it upon themselves to contract with local seamstresses to create patches. some of them were replicas of existing ones while others were brand new.

The Vietnam war saw the birth of a wide flurry of homemade (in-country made), unauthorized cloth insignia. When the US Army started fighting the Vietcong with guerrilla tactics, several small and specialized groups were formed. Groups such as MACV SOG Special Forces Groups made their way into history. Often times the unauthorized insignia was worn in hidden places such as inside hats and berets. The insignia provided a sense of unity, achievement and belonging.

The example displayed in this page shows the same type of construction as that employed with similar patches that were worn inside berets and hats.

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USAF 18th Wing / 33rd RQS / Green Feet / DCU Patch

USAF 18th Wing / 33rd RQS / Green Feet / DCU Patch

Made in Japan

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USAF 18th Wing / 33rd ARRS / Green Feet - Head Off Patch

USAF 18th Wing / 33rd ARRS / Green Feet - Head Off  / ¨False Sense of Urgency¨ Patch

Korean Made

18 WING (PACAF)

Lineage. Established as 18 Fighter Wing on 10 Aug 1948. Activated on 14 Aug 1948. Redesignated 18 Fighter-Bomber Wing on 20 Jan 1950; 18 Tactical Fighter Wing on 1 Jul 1958; 18 Wing on 1 Oct 1991.

Assignments. Thirteenth Air Force, 14 Aug 1948: Far East Air Forces, 1 Dec 1948; Thirteenth Air Force, 16 May 1949 (attached to Fifth Air Force, 1 Dec 1950-31 Oct 1954; Twentieth Air Force, 1 Nov 1954; 6332 Air Base Wing, 1-9 Nov 1954; Twentieth Air Force, 10 Nov 1954-31 Jan 1955; Air Task Group Fifth, Provisional, 1-15 Feb 1955; Twentieth Air Force, 16-28 Feb 1955; 313 Air Division, 1 Mar 1955-31 Jan 1957; Fifth Air Force, 1 Feb-30 Sep 1957); Fifth Air Force, 1 Oct 1957; 313 Air Division, 10 Nov 1958 (attached to Fifth Air Force ADVON, 28 Jan-13 Jun 1968); Fifth Air Force, 1 Oct 1991-.

Operational Components. Groups. 5 Reconnaissance: attached 1 Dec 1948-16 May 1949. 18 Fighter (later, 18 Fighter-Bomber; 18 Tactical Fighter; 18 Operations): 14 Aug 1948-1 Oct 1957 (detached 16 May-16 Dec 1949, 28 Jul-30 Nov 1950, 1-9 Nov 1954, and 3-c. 30 Sep 1955); 1 May 1978-11 Feb 1981; 1 Oct 1991-. 35 Fighter-Interceptor: attached 7-24 May 1951.

Squadrons. (Note: Because of the numerous deployments by the 15, 44, and 67 Squadrons in the 1960s and 1970s, detached periods are not shown for them). 1 Special Operations: 15 Dec 1972-1 May 1978. 12 Fighter-Bomber (later, 12 Tactical Fighter): attached 15 Mar-15 Aug 1957; assigned 25 Mar 1958-1 May 1978 (detached 1 Feb-15 Mar 1965, 15 Jun-25 Aug 1965, 23-29 Jan 1968); assigned 11 Feb 1981-1 Oct 1991. 13 Tactical Fighter: 15 May 1966-15 Nov 1967 (detached). 15 Tactical Reconnaissance: attached 15 Mar 1960-19 Apr 1970, assigned 20 Apr 1970-1 May 1978; assigned 11 Feb 1981-1 Oct 1989. 19 Tactical Electronic Warfare: 31 Dec 1968-31 Oct 1970 (detached 31 Dec 1968-10 May 1969). 21 Troop Carrier: attached 17 Feb-28 Jun 1950. 25 Liaison: attached 1 Dec 1948-25 Mar 1949. 25 Tactical Fighter: 19 Dec 1975-1 May 1978. 26 Aggressor: 1 Oct 1988-21 Feb 1990. 39 Fighter-Interceptor: attached 25 May 1951-31 May 1952. 44 Fighter-Bomber (later, 44 Tactical Fighter): attached 25 Jul-30 Nov 1950; attached 1 Feb-30 Sep 1957, assigned 1 Oct 1957-25 Apr 1967; assigned 15 Mar 1971-1 May 1978; assigned 11 Feb 1981-1 Oct 1991. 67 Fighter-Bomber (later, 67 Tactical Fighter): attached 1 Feb-30 Sep 1957, assigned 1 Oct 1957-15 Dec 1967; assigned 15 Mar 1971-1 May 1978; assigned 11 Feb 1981-1 Oct 1991. 90 Special Operations: 15 Apr-15 Dec 1972. 306 Tactical Fighter: attached 24 Apr-17 Jul 1962. 307 Tactical Fighter: attached 21 Dec 1962-Mar 1963. 308 Tactical Fighter: attached Mar-Jul 1963. 309 Tactical Fighter: attached 17 Jul-21 Dec 1962. 336 Fighter-Day: attached 7 Aug 1956-1 Feb 1957. 6200 Troop Carrier: attached 1 Dec 1948-16 May 1949. Flying Training Squadron, Provisional: attached 15 Oct 1957-25 Mar 1958.

Flight. 6204 Photo-Mapping: attached 17 Dec 1949-1 Dec 1950.

Stations. Clark AFB, Philippine Islands, 14 Aug 1948; Pusan AB, South Korea, 1 Dec 1950; Pyongyang East, North Korea, 1 Dec 1950; Suwon AB, South Korea, 4 Dec 1950; Chinhae, South Korea, 10 Dec 1950; Osan-ni, South Korea, 26 Dec 1952; Kadena AB, Okinawa (later, Japan), 1 Nov 1954-.

Aircraft. P (later, F)-47, 1948; F-51, 1948-1950, 1950-1953; RB-17, 1948-1949, 1949-1950; F-2, 1948-1949; L-5, 1948-1949; C-47, 1948-1949; VB-17, 1948-1949; C-46, 1949; RC-45, 1949-1950; F-80, 1949-1950; F-86, 1953-1955, 1955, 1955-1957; T-33, 1954; F-100, 1957-1963; F-105, 1962-1965, 1965-1968, 1968-1972; RF-101, 1960-1967; RF-4, 1967-1989; F-4, 1971-1980; C-130 (later, MC-130), 1972-1981; T-39, 1975-1976; CT-39, 1977-1984; F-15, 1979-; E-3, 1991-; KC-135, 1991-; C-12, 1992-1993; HH-3, 1993-1994; HH-60, 1993-.

Operations. From 1 Dec 1948 to 16 May 1949, wing was the major Far East Air Forces organization in the Philippines. Conducted aerial mapping, 1948-1950. In late Jul 1950, the group and two squadrons deployed to Korea for combat, converting to F-51s, while the wing continued air defense of the Philippines. Wing rejoined the group in Korea on 1 Dec 1950 and resumed operational control. Combat operations included armed reconnaissance, strategic bombing, close ground support, aerial combat and interdiction. Converted to F-86s in early 1953 and continued counterair and ground attack missions until Jul 1953 armistice. Moved to Okinawa on 1 Nov 1954, supporting tactical operations there and in Korea, Japan, Formosa (later Taiwan), and the Philippines. Deployed at Yonton Auxiliary AB, Okinawa, 10 Nov-11 Dec 1954. Deployed at Chia-Yi, Formosa, 1-16 Feb 1955. Performed reconnaissance, 1960-1989. Supported combat operations in Southeast Asia from 1961 with deployed reconnaissance forces, and from 1964 with deployed tactical fighter forces until the end of that conflict. Deployed at Osan AB, South Korea, 28 Jan-c. 13 Jun 1968, following North Korean seizure of USS Pueblo. Maintained air defense alert capability in South Korea, 1978-. Converted from F-4 to F-15 aircraft, 1979-1980. Continued to maintain assigned aircraft, crews, and supporting personnel in a high state of readiness for tactical air requirements of Fifth Air Force and the Pacific Air Forces. Beginning Oct 1991, the mission of the wing expanded to include aerial refueling and surveillance, warning, command and control, and communications. Added airlift mission in Jun 1992, transporting mission critical personnel, high-priority cargo and distinguished visitors. In Feb 1993, gained responsibility for coordinating rescue operations in the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean. Involved in Indian Ocean Tsunami humanitarian relief effort, 2004; supported Global War on Terrorism; personnel deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq, 2004-.

Campaign Streamers. Korea: CCF Intervention; First UN Counteroffensive; CCF Spring Offensive; UN Summer-Fall Offensive; Second Korean Winter; Korea Summer-Fall, 1952; Third Korean Winter; Korea Summer, 1953.

Decorations. Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards: 1 Dec 1959-30 Nov 1960; 1 Sep 1962-31 Aug 1963; 1 Aug 1964-5 Jun 1965; 6 Jun 1965-31 Dec 1966; 1 Sep 1978-30 Sep 1979; 1 Oct 1979-31 May 1980; 1 Jul 1981-31 May 1983; 1 Jun 1983-31 May 1984; 1 Jun 1984-31 May 1986; 1 Jun 1987-31 May 1989; 1 Jun 1989-31 May 1991; 1 Jun 1991-31 May 1993; 1 Jun 1993-31 Aug 1994; 1 Sep 1994-31 Aug 1995; 1 Sep 1995-31 Aug 1997; 1 Oct 1998-30 Sep 2000; 1 Oct 2000-30 Sep 2002; 1 Oct 2002-30 Sep 2004. Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citations: 1 Dec 1950-31 Jan 1951; 1 Feb 1951-31 Mar 1953. Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm: 1 Apr 1966-28 Jan 1973.

Bestowed Honors. Authorized to display honors earned by the 18 Operations Group prior to 14 Aug 1948. Service Streamers. None. Campaign Streamers. World War II: Northern Solomons; Bismarck Archipelago; New Guinea; Leyte; Luzon; Southern Philippines; Central Pacific; Western Pacific; China Defensive. Decorations. Distinguished Unit Citation: Philippine Islands, 10-11 Nov 1944. Philippine Presidential Unit Citation.

Emblem. Approved for 18 Group on 21 Feb 1931 and for 18 Wing on 17 Apr 1953; slightly modified on 5 Mar 1998.

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USAF 176th Operations Group Patch / AKANG Patch

USAF 176th Operations Group Patch / AKANG

176th Operations Group

The 176th Operations Group is one of four groups (the others being the 176th Maintenance Group; the 176th Medical Group; and the 176th Mission Support Group) that make up the 176th Wing.

The Operations Group comprises the units that directly execute the wing's missions: tactical airlift, strategic airlift, air control, and combat search and rescue. These subsidiary units are:

144th Airlift Squadron

To maintain a quality, combat ready, volunteer force capable of performing tactical airlift, humanitarian aid, and disaster relief in defense of the state of Alaska and the United States of America operating eight C-130 "Hercules" aircraft..

176th Air Control Squadron

Provides mission-ready personnel to operate and maintain the Alaskan Region Air Operations Center (RAOC) of the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) to monitor and track potential threats to North American air sovereignty. It integrates fixed and airborne radar into the NORAD Global Command and Control System (NGCCS), and conducts 24-hour Alaskan NORAD Region (ANR) and Eleventh Air Force (11th AF) air sovereignty and theater air control operations.

176th Operations Support Squadron

To ensure the combat readiness of 176th Operations Group assets including 18 aircraft and more than 300 assigned personnel committed to meeting National Guard Bureau and Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) taskings. Provide training, intelligence, weapons/tactics, aircrew flight equipment, resource management and airfield operations support to all components of the 176th Operations Group and intelligence support to all components of the 176th Wing.

210th Rescue Squadron

Man, equip and train a combat-ready unit to provide and sustain combat search and rescue (CSAR) operations in the Pacific Theater. Support in-place and deployed contingency operations for Rescue Coordination Center (RCC) directed, all-weather, long range missions. Provide 24-hour rescue alert for mainland Alaska at Kulis ANGB, and operate as a geologically separate detachment, providing rescue alert and range support at Eielson AFB operating six HH-60 Pavehawk helicopters.

211th Rescue Squadron

To man, equip, and train a combat-ready unit to provide and sustain combat search and rescue operations in the Pacific Theater. Support in-place and deployed contingency operations for Rescue Coordination Center (RCC) directed all weather, long range combat missions. Perform 24 hour rescue alert for the Alaska theatre operating four HC-130 King aircraft.

212th Rescue Squadron

Man, equip and train a combat-ready force to provide and sustain Personnel Recovery operations. Supports in-place and deployed contingency operations for Rescue Coordination Center (RCC) directed, all-weather, long range missions. Provides highly trained pararescuers, combat rescue officers and Search, Evasion, Resistance and Escape (SERE) specialists to execute rescue missions. Performs 24-hour Alaska rescue alert at Kulis and operates a geographically separate rescue detachment, maintaining duty hour alert at Eielson Air Force Base, AK.

249th Airlift Squadron

Recruit, train and provide combat-ready C-17A aircrews for global mobility missions that supply and sustain America's armed forces. It conducts the rapid strategic delivery of troops and all types of cargo to main operating bases and/or direct-delivery to forward locations throughout the world. Global mobility mission sets performed include intercontinental and theater airlift, aeromedical evacuations, humanitarian assistance, and tactical airdrop. All aircrews maintain a high state of mission readiness in air refueling, low-level contour navigation, Night Vision Goggles (NVG), and airland operations to support wartime taskings. Operates eight C-17 Globemaster IIIs out of Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson. 

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USAF / (CSAR) Combat Search and Rescue Patch

USAF / (CSAR) Combat Search and Rescue Patch

Korean Made

Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR)

Personnel recovery has become an increasingly important mission area receiving added emphasis among OSD policy makers and throughout DoD. It is significant that recent world events requiring military planning options also involved the deployment of combat search and rescue forces. In each instance, recovery assets were among the first to arrive in theater so they would be ready to support combat operations. Additionally, soon after planning began during recent crises, the White House staff requested the Joint Staff provide their concept of personnel recovery for the contingency for review.

Presidential interest was high concerning the safety of US military forces and our ability to recover them if necessary.

The USAF has been designated by DOD as the lead service for Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR). To meet the requirements of a lead service, the Air Force has equipped and trained specialized rescue forces to conduct CSAR.

The primary operational task of rescue is to locate, communicate with, and recover downed aircrews and isolated personnel. This primary task can be broken into three sub-tasks. Locating the aircrew or isolated personnel (survivor) by visual or electronic search methods to pinpoint the survivor’s location and permit recovery. Communicating with the survivor by radio or visual signaling to conduct authentication. Recover the survivor to return the survivor to friendly control and provide the survivor necessary medical assistance.

Additional, non-rescue specific, operational tasks that must be completed to accomplish the primary rescue task include: (1) provide personnel and equipment to train rescue mission ready personnel, (2) operate efficiently during peacetime, (3) airdrop rescue personnel and equipment, (4) configure rescue equipment for deployment, (5) provide self-protection for rescue assets, (6) conduct medical evacuation operations, (7) provide intelligence support directly to the rescue aircrew, (8) respond to and prepare for rescue mission execution, (9) control alert and airborne rescue missions, and (10) support rescue sortie production.

To accomplish the primary task, the US Air Force currently maintains two operational systems, the HC-130N/P and the HH-60G. The HC-130 provides long-range search capability in a no-to-low threat environment, day or night. The HC-130 also provides a limited command and control link for all rescue assets during a rescue mission, and extends the range of the rescue helicopter by providing in-flight air refueling. The HH-60 provides limited search and recovery of the survivor in up to a medium threat environment, day or night. If a survivor requires immediate medical attention and cannot wait for the arrival of the recovery helicopter, threat environment permitting, specially trained Pararescuemen (PJ) can be airdropped to the survivor using parachute deployments. Once on scene, the PJ will stabilize the survivors and prepare them for recovery.

The threat environments that rescue assets operate within can be adjusted by the use of supporting aircraft. Supporting aircraft providing air-to-air, air-to-ground, and Suppression of Enemy Air Defense (SEAD) coverage can degrade the threat, either temporarily or permanently, permitting rescue assets to enter the area and execute the recovery. Rescue forces may be augmented by these supporting systems depending on the threat environment, distance to the survivor, and availability of assets.

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Joint Personnel Recovery Center / Baghdad Patch

Joint Personnel Recovery Center / Baghdad  Patch

Joint Personnel Recovery Center (Fmr. Joint Search and Rescue Center)

The recovery of U.S. military forces isolated behind enemy lines is critical for morale, protection of assets, and operational security. Throughout the history of personnel recovery, time spent on the ground by a survivor / evader has been the most critical factor in determining whether they were rescued or captured. In conflicts ranging from Vietnam to Kosovo, the magic number has roughly been one hour. The majority of the isolated personnel recovered were rescued within this time frame, those who had to evade for longer than this magic hour were much less likely to be rescued.

The United States Air Force has done many things to decrease this time on the ground and maximize the chances for survivor rescue. Tactics have been adapted and improved and technological developments have helped to minimize the search time. The largest remaining obstacle to a streamlined execution timeline lies with the command and control functions that reside at the air operations center. The Joint Personnel Recovery Center formerly known as Joint Search and Rescue Center, has the responsibility to recommend rescue courses of action and ultimately execution of any rescue mission to the air component commander. This process can amazingly take more time than any other phase of combat rescue. The time from shootdown event to mission execution will be reduced by streamlining JPRC functionality and using the rescue squadron tactical operations center as a command and control asset in the execution flow. The manning of the JPRC can then be changed appropriately and allow for the selection of more qualified personnel to run the operations.

The purpose of this paper is to identify the critical items key to successful rescues throughout the short history of combat search and rescue. It will cover the techniques that have been implemented and technology utilized to increase the chances of success and finally make recommendations that allow the command and control structure to function more efficiently making Air Force rescue efforts more effective.

This will be possible by assigning the tasks of the Air Force PRCC to the rescue TOC within theater which will provide more expertise within the coordination cell. It will also allow for reduced manning with the JPRC and free up that manning to concentrate on overarching joint issues to help make PR more effective for all the branches in theater. Adjusting the manning requirements and time constraints for the positions will make them more attractive and easier to fill and will free up more knowledgeable personnel to be brought in and man its functions.

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USAF 40th ARRS / Detachment 5 / Helicopter Flight Heritage Patch

USAF 40th ARRS / Detachment 5 / Helicopter Flight Heritage Patch

Made in Japan / Very rare patch!

40th HELICOPTER FLIGHT (AFGSC)

Lineage. Constituted as 40 Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron, activated, and organized, on 21 Mar 1968. Inactivated on 31 Jan 1976. Activated on 1 Jul 1978. Inactivated on 31 Dec 1987. Redesignated as 40 Rescue Flight on 1 Apr 1993. Activated on 1 May 1993. Redesignated as: 40 Helicopter Flight on 1 May 1998; 40 Helicopter Squadron on 11 Oct 2005.

Assignments. 3 Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Group, 18 Mar 1968; 41 Aerospace Rescue and Recovery (later, 41 Rescue and Weather Reconnaissance) Wing, 20 Aug 1972-31 Jan 1976. 39 Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Wing, 1 Jul 1978-31 Dec 1987. 341 Operations Group, 1 May 1993-.

Operational Components. Detachments: 1 (Nakhon Phanom RTAFB, Thailand): 18 Mar 1968-1 Jul 1971. 1 (Homestead AFB, FL): 8 Jan 1981-1 Oct 1985. 3 (Ubon RTAFB, Thailand): 20 Aug 1972-20 Aug 1974. 4 (Hill AFB, UT): 1 Jul 1978-31 Dec 1987. 5 (Udorn RTAFB, Thailand): 20 Aug 1972-30 Sep 1975. 5 (Edwards AFB, CA): 1 Jul 1978-31 Dec 1987. 6 (Holloman AFB, NM): 1 Jul 1978-31 Dec 1987. 7 (Da Nang AB, South Vietnam): 11 Dec 1972-10 Feb 1973. 8 (Takhli RTAFB, Thailand): c. Dec 1972-31 Jan 1973. 10 (Takhli RTAFB, Thailand): 31 Jan 1973-30 Jul 1974. 10 (MacDill AFB, FL): 8 Jan 1981-31 Mar 1981. 12 (U-Tapao RTAFB, Thailand): 20 Aug 1972-31 Jan 1976. 14 (Tan Son Nhut AB, South Vietnam): 15 Sep 1972-10 Feb 1973. 18 (Plattsburgh AFB, NY): 8 Jan 1981-30 Nov 1987. 22 (Mountain Home AFB, ID): 1 Jul 1978-30 Nov 1987. 24 (Fairchild AFB, WA): 1 Jul 1978-30 Nov 1987.

Stations. Udorn Afld (later, Udorn RTAFB), Thailand, 18 Mar 1968; Nakhon Phanom RTAFB, Thailand, 28 Jul 1971; Korat RTAFB, Thailand, 15 Sep 1975-31 Jan 1976. Hill AFB, UT, 1 Jul 1978-31 Dec 1987. Malmstrom AFB, MT, 1 May 1993-.

Aircraft. HH-3, 1968-1970; HH-53, 1968-1976; HH-43, 1971-1975; HC-130, 1975-1976; UH-1, 1978-1987. UH-1, 1993-.

Operations. Search and rescue operations during the war in Vietnam. Participated in the evacuation of Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and Saigon, South Vietnam, when those cities fell to communist forces in 1975. After hostile forces seized the American merchant ship Mayaguez that same year, took part in an assault on Koh Tang Island, Cambodia. Rescue missions and exercises, 1978-1987 and 1993-.

Campaign Streamers. Vietnam: Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase II; Vietnam Air/Ground; Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase III; Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase IV; Tet 69/Counteroffensive; Vietnam Summer-Fall 1969; Vietnam Winter-Spring, 1969-1970; Sanctuary Counteroffensive; Southwest Monsoon; Commando Hunt V; Commando Hunt VI; Commando Hunt VII; Vietnam Cease-Fire.

Decorations. Presidential Unit Citations (Southeast Asia): [18 Mar 1968]-31 Jan 1969; 1 Feb 1969-30 Apr 1970; 1 May 1970-31 Mar 1972; 1 Apr 1972-27 Jan 1973. Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards: 24 Jan-2 May 1975; 2 Jul 1986-31 Dec 1987; [1 May]-31 Aug 1993; 1 Sep 1994-31 Aug 1995; 1 Oct 1995-30 Sep 1996; 1 Oct 1997-30 Sep 1999; 1 Oct 2002-30 Sep 2003; 1 Jan-31 Dec 2003; 1 Oct 2002-30 Sep 2004; 1 Oct 2006-30 Sep 2008; 1 Oct 2008-30 Sep 2009. Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross w/Palm: 18 Mar 1968-28 Jan 1973.

Emblem. Approved on 10 Jul 2003.

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USAF 31st RQS / Pararescue Team Patch

USAF 31st RQS / Pararescue Team Patch

Made in Japan

31st RESCUE SQUADRON (PACAF)

Lineage. Constituted 31 Air Rescue Squadron on 17 Oct 1952. Activated on 14 Nov 1952. Discontinued on 18 Sep 1960. Organized on 8 Jul 1963. Redesignated 31 Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron on 8 Jan 1966. Inactivated on 1 Jul 1975. Activated on 8 Jan 1981. Redesignated 31 Special Operations Squadron on 6 Apr 1989. Inactivated on 31 Aug 2001. Redesignated 31 Rescue Squadron on 16 May 2003. Activated on 31 Jul 2003.

Assignments. 2 Air Rescue Group, 14 Nov 1952; Air Rescue Service, 24 Jun 1958-18 Sep 1960. Air Rescue (later, Aerospace Rescue and Recovery) Service, 8 Jul 1963 (attached to Pacific Air Rescue [later, Pacific Aerospace Rescue and Recovery] Center, 8 Jul 1963-31 Mar 1967); Pacific Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Center (later, 41 Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Wing), 1 Apr 1967-1 Jul 1975. 41 Rescue and Weather Reconnaissance Wing, 8 Jan 1981; 353 Special Operations Wing (later, 353 Special Operations Group) 6 Apr 1989-31 Aug 2001. 18 Operations Group, 31 Jul 2003-.

Stations. ClarkAB, Philippines, 14 Nov 1952; NahaAB, Okinawa, 12-18 Sep 1960. ClarkAB, Philippines, 8 Jul 1963-1 Jul 1975. Clark AB, Philippines, 8 Jan 1981; Marine Corps Air Station, Futemna, Okinawa, Japan, 29 Jun 1991; Osan AB, South Korea, Jul 1992-31 Aug 2001. KadenaAB, Japan, 31 Jul 2003-.

Aircraft. SA-16, 1952-1960; H-19, 1952-1955; SH-19, 1955-1960. HH-19, 1963-1964; HC-54, 1964-1965; HH-43, 1964-1970, 1971-1972; HC-97, 1965-1966; HC-130, 1966-1975; HH-3, 1968-1975. HH-3, 1981-1990; CH-3, 1981-1990; MH-53, 1990-2001; MH-47, 2001.

Operations. Combat rescue in Southeast Asia, 1965-1966. Operated JointRescueCoordinationCenter for Thirteenth Air Force, Apr 1967-Jul 1975. Supported evacuation of Saigon, South Vietnam, flying 108 hours in combat search and rescue, Feb-May 1975. Provided rotary wing search and rescue capabilities in Southwest Pacific area, 1981-1989, and rotary wing unconventional warfare and special operations resources in the Far East, 1990-2001. Operated no aircraft; served as all-parachute jump unit, 2003-.

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USAF 33rd RQS / CSAR / Pacific Thunder 2009 Patch

USAF 33rd RQS / CSAR / Pacific Thunder 2009 Patch

Korean made

This is a 10-day exercise, performed at Osan AB, Korea involving the 33rd Rescue Squadron, (Kadena AB, Japan), and the 25th Fighter Squadron, Osan AB, Korea. These units work together to practice Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) tactics to prepare for real-world emergency situations.

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USAF 33rd RQS / Jolly Air Pirate Patch

USAF 33rd RQS / Jolly Air Pirate Patch

Made in Japan

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USAF 33rd RQS / Kermit The Frog / Jolly Green OD Patch

USAF 33rd RQS / Kermit The Frog / Jolly Green Patch

Computer made by Tiger Embroidery, Okinawa, Japan

33rd RESCUE SQUADRON (PACAF)

Lineage. Constituted 33 Air Rescue Squadron on 17 Oct 1952. Activated on 14 Nov 1952. Discontinued on 18 Mar 1960. Organized on 18 Jun 1961. Redesignated: 33 Air Recovery Squadron on 1 Jul 1965; 33 Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron on 8 Jan 1966. Inactivated on 1 Oct 1970. Activated on 1 Jul 1971. Redesignated: 33 Air Rescue Squadron on 1 Jun 1989; 33 Rescue Squadron on 1 Feb 1993.

 

Assignments. 2 Air Rescue Group, 14 Nov 1952 (attached to Twentieth Air Force, 14 Nov 1952-1 Mar 1955; 3 Air Rescue Group, 1 Mar-19 Sep 1955); 3 Air Rescue Group, 20 Sep 1955; 2 Air Rescue Group, 18 Jun 1957; Air Rescue Service, 24 Jun 1958-18 Mar 1960 (attached to Pacific Air Forces, 24 Jun 1958-17 Mar 1959; Detachment 2, Air Rescue Service [Pacific Recovery Operations Center], 18 Mar 1959-18 Mar 1960). Air Rescue (later, Aerospace Rescue and Recovery) Service, 18 Jun 1961 (attached to Detachment 1, Air Rescue Service [Pacific Recovery Operations Center], 18 Jun-8 Oct 1961; Pacific Air Rescue Center [later, Pacific Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Center], 8 Oct 1961-31 Mar 1967); Pacific Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Center (later, 41 Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Wing), 1 Apr 1967-1 Oct 1970. 41 Aerospace Rescue and Recovery (later, 41 Rescue and Weather Rec

onnaissance) Wing, 1 Jul 1971; Air Rescue Service, 1 Aug 1989; 18 Operations Group, 1 Feb 1993-.

Stations. Kadena AB, Okinawa, 14 Nov 1952; Naha AB, Okinawa, 14 Apr 1955-18 Mar 1960. Naha AB, Okinawa, 18 Jun 1961-1 Oct 1970. Kadena AB, Okinawa, 1 Jul 1971-.

 

Aircraft. SA-16, 1952-1960; SH-19, 1952-1960; SC-47, 1952-1956. SA-16 (later, HU-16), 1961-1968; SH-19 (later, HH-19), 1961-1964; HH-43, 1964-1966; C-54, 1966; HH-3, 1968-1970; HC-97, 1968-1969. HH-43, 1971-1972; HH-3, 1971-1975, 1982-1994; HC-130, 1972-1989; HH-53, 1975-1982; CH-3, 1982-1994; HH-60,1993-.

 

Operations. Search, rescue and recovery, 1952-1960, 1961-1970, 1971-, including Vietnam, 1965-1967; following the seizure of the USS Pueblo by North Korea, 29 Jan-16 Sep 1968; and search efforts and salvage operations, Sep-Oct 1983, after a Soviet fighter aircraft shot down South Korean airliner KAL 007. Provided search, rescue and recovery services supporting US national interests in the Pacific theater, 1993-.

Service Streamers. Korean Theater.

Campaign Streamers. Vietnam: Vietnam Advisory; Vietnam Defensive; Vietnam Air; Vietnam Air Offensive; Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase II.

 

Decorations. Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards: 1 Jul 1956-31 Dec 1958; 15 Jun 1964-31 May 1965; 1 Jun 1965-30 Jun 1966; 1 Jul 1966-31 May 1968; 1 Jun 1969-30 Sep 1970; 1 Jun 1973-31 May 1975; 1 Sep 1975-1 May 1977; 16 Jul 1977-16 Jul 1979; 17 Jul 1979-15 Jun 1981; 1 Apr 1984-31 Mar 1986; 1 Apr 1987-31 Mar 1988; 1 Jun 1991-31 May 1993; 1 Jun 1993-31 Aug 1994; 1 Sep 1995-31 Aug 1997; 1 Oct 1998-30 Sep 2000; 1 Oct 2000-30 Sep 2002; 1 Oct 2002-30 Sep 2004. Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation: 1 Jul 1967-26 Jul 1969. Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm: 1 Apr 1966-17 Jan 1967.

 

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USAF 33rd RQS / That Others May Live - That Their´s May Die Patch

USAF 33rd RQS / That Others May Live - That Their´s May Die Patch

Korean computer made

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USAF 31st RQS / Africa 2009 Deployment Patch

USAF 31st RQS / Africa 2009 Deployment Patch

Computer made by Tiger Embroidery, Okinawa, Japan.

31st RESCUE SQUADRON (PACAF)

Lineage. Constituted 31 Air Rescue Squadron on 17 Oct 1952. Activated on 14 Nov 1952. Discontinued on 18 Sep 1960. Organized on 8 Jul 1963. Redesignated 31 Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron on 8 Jan 1966. Inactivated on 1 Jul 1975. Activated on 8 Jan 1981. Redesignated 31 Special Operations Squadron on 6 Apr 1989. Inactivated on 31 Aug 2001. Redesignated 31 Rescue Squadron on 16 May 2003. Activated on 31 Jul 2003.

Assignments. 2 Air Rescue Group, 14 Nov 1952; Air Rescue Service, 24 Jun 1958-18 Sep 1960. Air Rescue (later, Aerospace Rescue and Recovery) Service, 8 Jul 1963 (attached to Pacific Air Rescue [later, Pacific Aerospace Rescue and Recovery] Center, 8 Jul 1963-31 Mar 1967); Pacific Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Center (later, 41 Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Wing), 1 Apr 1967-1 Jul 1975. 41 Rescue and Weather Reconnaissance Wing, 8 Jan 1981; 353 Special Operations Wing (later, 353 Special Operations Group) 6 Apr 1989-31 Aug 2001. 18 Operations Group, 31 Jul 2003-.

Stations. ClarkAB, Philippines, 14 Nov 1952; NahaAB, Okinawa, 12-18 Sep 1960. ClarkAB, Philippines, 8 Jul 1963-1 Jul 1975. Clark AB, Philippines, 8 Jan 1981; Marine Corps Air Station, Futemna, Okinawa, Japan, 29 Jun 1991; Osan AB, South Korea, Jul 1992-31 Aug 2001. KadenaAB, Japan, 31 Jul 2003-.

Aircraft. SA-16, 1952-1960; H-19, 1952-1955; SH-19, 1955-1960. HH-19, 1963-1964; HC-54, 1964-1965; HH-43, 1964-1970, 1971-1972; HC-97, 1965-1966; HC-130, 1966-1975; HH-3, 1968-1975. HH-3, 1981-1990; CH-3, 1981-1990; MH-53, 1990-2001; MH-47, 2001.

Operations. Combat rescue in Southeast Asia, 1965-1966. Operated JointRescueCoordinationCenter for Thirteenth Air Force, Apr 1967-Jul 1975. Supported evacuation of Saigon, South Vietnam, flying 108 hours in combat search and rescue, Feb-May 1975. Provided rotary wing search and rescue capabilities in Southwest Pacific area, 1981-1989, and rotary wing unconventional warfare and special operations resources in the Far East, 1990-2001. Operated no aircraft; served as all-parachute jump unit, 2003-.

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USAF / PJ / Tan Color / Reversible Infrared Reflective (IR) Patch

USAF / PJ / Tan Color / Reversible Infrared Reflective (IR) Patch

Infrared reflective, non-fabric Glo-Tape patches with YKK Velcro® hook backing attaches to Velcro on military field and flight uniforms to provide covert combat identification. Reflects IR light brightly to identify friend or foe when viewed through night vision equipment.

Tan with IR lettering (Black) / Two versions

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USAF 58th RQS Patch

USAF 58th RQS Patch

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USAF 304th RQS Patch

USAF 304th RQS Patch

The 304th Rescue Squadron was most recently part of the 939th Rescue Wing at Portland International Airport, Oregon. It operated HH-60 Pave Hawk aircraft conducting search and rescue missions.

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USAF 308th RQS Patch

USAF 308th RQS Patch

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USAF PACAF / Pacific Rescue Coordination Center Patch

USAF PACAF / Pacific Rescue Coordination Center Patch

Unit assigned to the 352nd Special Operations Group at Kadena, Japan

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USAF ARRS / S.E.A / 50 Combat Missions / Vietnam War

USAF ARRS / S.E.A / 50 Combat Missions / Vietnam War

(Featuring the HH-43 ¨Pedro¨ helicopter / Japan Made)

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USAF 56th SPS / Rescue Operation ¨S.S.MAYAGUEZ 12-15 May 75' / Spectre Patch

USAF 56th SPS / Rescue Operation "S.S.MAYAGUEZ 12-15 May 1975 / Spectre Patch

(Original Vietnam war in-country machine-embroidered patch)

On 13 May 1975, the SS Mayaguez, a US merchant vessel, was fired on by Cambodian gunboats of the Khymer Rouge government of Pol Pot. The Mayaguez, a containerized cargo vessel, was seized and its crew of forty taken into custody and kept on Koh Tang Island in the Gulf of Thailand.

The next day, a US military aircraft were in continued orbit over and around Koh Tang. Cambodian forces fired on these aircraft ineffectively but hindered reconnaissance efforts. Three gunboats were sunk by American fighter aircraft to facilitate efforts to locate the Mayaguez crew.

The 40th Air Rescue and Recovery Squadron and the 21st Special Operations Squadron deployed to Utapao, Thailand with 16 H-53 (Super Jolly Green Giant) helicopters to prepare for possible rescue attempts. The deployment was marred by the crash of one of the 21st SOS with 23 persons on board. No survivors. Two 40th ARRS aircraft were launched to rescue the crews of the Cambodian gunboats. The search for enemy survivors in the water was unsuccessful and hindered by ground fire from Koh Tang Island.

On 15 May, Helicopter crews were briefed at 2:30AM for take offs at 4:00 AM. The 21st SOS contingent with four 40th ARRS were to land on Koh Tang and drop off Marines to secure the island and rescue any Mayaguez crewmen on shore. The 40th sent four aircraft to the USS Holt with Marines to offload onto the destroyer for boarding onto the Mayaguez - pirate style. 

The Mission

The first two aircraft from the 21st SOS arrived at Koh Tang and land at 0600. After landing they were immediately subjected to a tremendous amount of fire from the surrounding jungle. Both aircraft were destroyed. The second contingent of helicopters came in and were also heavily damaged. One, Knife 22 was totally destroyed when it exploded 40 feet above the beach while attempting landing. During these first few minutes of the mission, four aircraft were lost and eighteen men killed. Throughout the day not another aircraft or life would be lost.

All but one of the 21st SOS aircraft were out of action. The rest of the mission belonged almost entirely to the 40th Air Rescue and Recovery Squadron. Approximately 200 men were in danger on the island. More troops were necessary to secure it and wounded on the island had to be evacuated. Six Jolly Green's of the 40th made a total of eight landings on the island inserting more troops and carrying wounded away. Four of these six aircraft were badly damaged while shooting their way in and out of extremely dangerous landing zones. Three of these aircraft limped back to Thailand - out of action. One other, Jolly Green 43, had fuel lines shot out and lost an engine. It had landed on the USS Coral Sea under emergency conditions. The fuel line was repaired using a rubber hose and tape to return the aircraft to action.

Meanwhile, crew of the Mayaguez and the ship were returned to United States hands. The Marines on Koh Tang were still under fire and the order was given to withdraw. Four Jolly Greens from the 40th and one from the 21st SOS were all that remained to accomplish the task. Led by Jolly Green 11 the aircraft made several landings and egresses from two beaches on Koh Tang.

Jolly 43 picked up 54 men on one trip, still with rubber hose and tape to keep one engine turning. These landings were made in the dark under increasingly confidant hostile fire. Help for the helicopters came from AC-130 (Spectre) gunships and a 15,000 pound bomb dropped on the center of the island by a C-130 transport. The withdrawal was accomplished without further loss of American life. Jolly Green 11 made the last pick-up from the east beach and later Jolly 44 and Knife 51 finished the job by recovering the last Americans from the island.

The SS. Mayaguez recovery remains one of the most heralded operations in Air Rescue and Recovery Service History. The men of the 40th Air Rescue and Recovery Squadron received numerous decorations for bravery and mission accomplishment in combat conditions. Awarded were 2 Air Force Crosses, 12 Silver Stars, 28 Distinguished Flying Crosses and 9 Air Medals. The resolve exhibited by these men had direct effect on the speedy release of the SS Mayaguez and crew.

U.S. Air Force Photo by Boyd Belcher. The Mayaguez Incident: "An hour after this photo was taken, everyone aboard this CH-53 helicopter was killed when it crashed in a remote area of northwest Thailand. The passengers were all security policemen assigned to the 56th Special Operations Wing, Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, and were to be a part of the assault force to recapture the USS Mayaguez and rescue its crew from Cambodian forces on Koh Tang."

CMSgt Wayne Fisk (Pararescue) was directly involved in the famed Son Tay POW camp raid and also the rescue of the crew of the SS Mayagüez. When the Mayagüez was hijacked by Cambodian Communist forces in May 1975, Fisk was a member of the assault force that successfully recovered the ship and the entrapped United States Marines. For his actions, he was presented with his second Silver Star. Concluding the Mayagüez mission, he was recognized as the last American serviceman to engage Communist forces in ground combat in Southeast Asia. In 1979, he was the first Air Force enlisted recipient of the US Jaycees Ten Outstanding Young Men of America. In 1986, he became the first director of the Air Force Enlisted Heritage Hall on Maxwell AFB-Gunter Annex.

Special Thanks to: Don Poss, Jeff Petty and Dale E. Higgs

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