During Thunder and Lightning over Arizona, spectators can witness a mission unique to the Air Force, Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR), through a demonstration simulating the rescue of an injured U.S. Marine, injured by an IED while on patrol.
Air Force members from Davis-Monthan and the Air National Guard will showcase their capabilities. The 354th Fighter Squadron, 55th Rescue Squadron, 48th Rescue Squadron, 162nd Fighter Wing Air National Guard unit, and a convoy by the Marine Corps Reserve Center Tucson Bulk Fuels and Motor Transport Division.
The Air Force’s CSAR capabilities ensure that no American will be left behind on the battlefield. Combat Search and Rescue falls under the larger umbrella of Personnel Recovery (PR). In September 2008, the Air Force acknowledged the extreme importance of this unique mission by adopting Personnel Recovery as one of its 12 core functions.
The Department of Defense also designated the Air Force as the lead service for CSAR. To meet the requirements of a lead service, the Air Force has equipped and trained specialized rescue forces to conduct the mission. The mission also requires specialized aircraft; the A-10C Thunderbolt, HH-60 Pave Hawk and HC-130J Combat King.
Davis-Monthan Air Force Base has both the personnel and the assets to perform this unique mission. During the performance, spectators will get a feel for the expertise, training and coordination required to execute this vital mission.
