Final jump for US Air Force rescue squadrons
A pararescuemen assigned to the 57th Rescue Squadron completes his final jump over RAF Lakenheath. Picture: US Air Force photo/Tech Sgt Matthew Plew - Credit: Archant
Rescue Squadrons have made one final jump above the countryside of Suffolk and Norfolk before they relocate from RAF Lakenheath.
A pararescuemen assigned to the 57th Rescue Squadron makes his final jump over RAF Lakenheath. Picture: US Air Force photo/Tech Sgt Matthew Plew - Credit: Archant
US Air Force aircrews and pararescue airmen assigned to the 56th and 57th Rescue Squadrons made the jump on April 20.
The event signals the final phase of the relocation of the two squadrons to Aviano Air Base, Italy.
Over the past several months, the squadrons have made preparations to gradually transition their five HH-60G Pave Hawks and nearly 350 personnel to the new station.
Maj Seth Davis, 57th Rescue Squadron commander, said: “We’re sad to be leaving but are incredibly proud of the work we’ve done while located at RAF Lakenheath and are excited about the squadrons’ new home in Italy.”
An HH-60G Pave Hawk assigned to the 56th Rescue Squadron flies over RAF Lakenheath in support of the final jump for pararescue Airmen assigned to the 57th Rescue Squadron. Picture: US Air Force photo/Tech Sgt Matthew Plew - Credit: Archant
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The 56th have been located at the Suffolk base since 2006. The 57th was established in March 2015.
Both are comprised of trained support personnel dedicated to conducting personnel recovery operations across the full-range of military contingencies during all phases of joint, coalition and combined operations.
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“This marks the end of an era for the 56th and 57th rescue squadrons,” said Lt Col Leslie Semrau, 56th Rescue Squadron commander. “But no matter where we’re located, we remain ready to deliver combat search and rescue capabilities wherever and whenever they’re needed.”
The relocation is slated to be complete by the end of June 2018.
