Project CHECO Southeast Asia Report. Search and Rescue Operations in SEA, 1 January 1971 - 31 March 1972
Abstract
This is the sixth report in a series by the Southeast Asia CHECO office on Search and Rescue operations. In preparing the fifth report-- the period covering July 1969 through December 1970--the author of that study felt that it would possibly be the last on the subject during the war in Vietnam. For that reason, he elected to summarize all Search and Rescue activities in Southeast Asia to present what had transpired in that area through 1970. The reader seeking background information on Search and Rescue in Southeast Asia is, therefore, referred to the previous CHECO publications on the subject, primarily USAF Search and Rescue in Southeast Asia--1 July 1969-31 December 1970, dated 23 April 1971. This continuation report is directed toward covering those significant events which took place during 1971 and the first quarter of 1972. While the report was being prepared, great changes were taking place in concepts and tactics for Search and Rescue operations. Some of the changes were a direct result of the unilateral withdrawal of US forces from Southeast Asia, while others were simply a result of finding better ways of doing things. It was true that when an aircraft was downed, practically all theater resources were made available for the rescue operation. However, the primary rescue-dedicated force was controlled by the 3rd Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Group. For that reason, the study places emphasis on the Group's operation, but the discussion will include, when applicable, the support offered by outside resources. Throughout the research phase, the author met with unlimited cooperation by everyone contacted. The overall impression, hopefully conveyed in the report, is that there has never been a group of people more dedicated to a goal than those associated with Search and Rescue in Southeast Asia. Although bitter failures and tragedies were encountered during the period, there were also unprecedented successes.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 17, 1972
- Accession Number
- ADA486518
Entities
People
- Leroy W. Lowe
Organizations
- Pacific Air Forces