Local reservists support shuttle launch

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Paul Flipse
  • 920th Rescue Wing Public Affairs
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. --  Air Force Reservists from the 920th Rescue Wing at nearby Patrick Air Force Base supported the successful launch of Space Shuttle Discovery here Mar. 16.

Wing pararescuemen, along with crewmembers on HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopters and an HC-130P/N refueling aircraft were stationed on or around Kennedy Space Center for the 7:43 p.m. launch, which took place without incident.

The 920th Rescue Wing provides first-response, emergency medical and search-and-rescue support for all NASA shuttle and rocket launches.

The reservists are also responsible for clearing the Eastern Range of ocean traffic prior to each launch. The Eastern Range refers to the roughly 10-mile-wide by 70-mile-long strip of Atlantic Ocean that extends out from the launch pad in the anticipated direction of flight, or "launch azimuth." 

In addition to the aircrew personnel, wing maintenance and life support specialists contributed significantly to the mission, as they spent the days leading up to the launch ensuring the readiness and safety of both the aircraft and those who would be riding inside.

The 920th Rescue Wing's primary mission is combat search and rescue, which involves locating and recovering U.S. servicemembers trapped behind enemy lines. The reservists also provide civil search and rescue as well as humanitarian relief. The wing was credited with saving 1,043 lives during Hurricane Katrina relief operations.