Rescue squadrons to relocate to Italy

  • Published
  • By Staff Reports
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  The U.S. Air Force announced today that the 56th and 57th Rescue Squadrons, currently assigned to the 48th Fighter Wing here, will relocate to Aviano Air Base, Italy.

The move will improve training opportunities and bring the squadrons closer to regional hot spots.

"It has been a truly rewarding experience living and training in the U.K.," said Lt. Col. Bernard Smith, 56th Rescue Squadron commander. "The support and fellowship we have been shown during our time here will always be a special memory."

The U.S. Air Force routinely investigates ways to increase efficiencies and best position our forces in Europe to meet our evolving mission requirements. Any changes are made in close coordination with host nations and we endeavor to keep local communities informed of our intentions as we work toward effective solutions.

"From a geographic standpoint, this movement will enable us to be more agile in our support to personnel recovery requirements across Europe, Africa and Southwest Asia," Smith added. "We are excited for the transfer of our mission to Italy and growing upon the relationships we have formed from the past several years of staging rescue operations from there."

These squadrons of aircraft, aircrew, Guardian Angel Weapons Systems and support personnel are slated to begin relocating in fiscal year 2017. This includes five HH-60 Pave Hawk Helicopters and approximately 350 Airmen. When the Personnel Recovery forces are positioned in Aviano, the U.S. Air Force will be better situated to provide rescue capabilities across Africa, Europe, and Southwest Asia.

"Saving lives is at the heart of our mission, so moving to Italy, where we're better postured to provide rescue capabilities quickly and effectively, just makes sense," said Lt. Col. Jose Cabrera, 57th Rescue Squadron commander. "Our partnership with the U.K. is as strong as ever. While we'll miss the great support and hospitality we've experienced in England, we certainly look forward to forging new relationships and conducting training operations in Italy."