304th ARRS

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Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About 304th ARRS

The 304th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron (304th ARRS) was activated in 1957 as part of the United States Air Force Reserve, specializing in combat search and rescue operations. Stationed at Portland International Airport, Oregon, the unit provided vital rescue support for both military and civilian incidents, including aircraft crashes, natural disasters, and astronaut recovery missions during the early space program. The 304th ARRS operated a variety of aircraft over its history, such as the HH-3E Jolly Green Giant and the HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopters. In 1997, the unit was redesignated as the 304th Rescue Squadron, continuing its legacy of lifesaving missions as part of Air Force Reserve Command.

Unit Members

Charles Orr

U.S. Air Force

304th ARRSView Profile

George Selfridge

U.S. Air Force

304th ARRSView Profile

Photos

Osan Korea Electronic Warfare Technician

51 Component Repair Squadron • U.S. Air Force • 1979

Boeing 767 Captain

U.S. Air Force • 2017

Towing Gliders

U.S. Air Force • 2000

C-141 Flight Engineer Graduation

708 Military Airlift Squadron • U.S. Air Force • 1982

About 304th ARRS

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins: The 304th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron (ARRS) was first constituted on 16 October 1957 and activated on 8 November 1957 as part of the Air Force Reserve. • Primary Mission: The unit specialized in search and rescue (SAR), combat search and rescue (CSAR), and aeromedical evacuation missions, providing lifesaving support both in peacetime and during conflicts. • Vietnam War Service: Members of the 304th ARRS deployed to Southeast Asia, providing critical rescue operations for downed airmen and supporting combat missions during the Vietnam War. • Headquarters: The squadron was primarily stationed at Portland International Airport, Oregon, serving as a vital rescue resource for the Pacific Northwest. • Apollo Missions Support: The 304th ARRS participated in recovery operations for NASA's Apollo space program, standing by to rescue astronauts after splashdowns in the Pacific Ocean. • Helicopter Expertise: The unit operated aircraft such as the HH-34, HH-1 Huey, and HH-3E Jolly Green Giant helicopters, known for their reliability and versatility in rescue missions. • Humanitarian Operations: The 304th ARRS frequently aided in disaster response, such as flood and earthquake rescues, and provided emergency assistance during civilian emergencies. • Decorations: The squadron earned multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for its exceptional performance and dedication to mission success. • Legacy: In 1993, the unit was redesignated as the 304th Rescue Squadron (304th RQS) and continues its proud tradition of rescue operations as part of the Air Force Reserve Command. • Motto: The 304th ARRS adopted the motto, “That Others May Live,” reflecting its unwavering commitment to saving lives in perilous conditions.