About this Unit
The 40th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron (ARRS) was a distinguished United States Air Force unit active during the Vietnam War. Stationed at Udorn Royal Thai Air Force Base and later at Nakhon Phanom (NKP), Thailand, the 40th ARRS conducted combat search and rescue (CSAR) missions across Southeast Asia from the mid-1960s into the 1970s. Flying primarily HH-53 "Super Jolly Green Giant" helicopters, the squadron rescued downed airmen behind enemy lines, often under heavy fire. Their courageous efforts earned the unit several commendations and helped save hundreds of lives during some of the war’s most perilous operations.
Historical Facts
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Origin of the 40th ARRS: The 40th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron (ARRS) was activated in 1968 during the Vietnam War, primarily to conduct combat search and rescue (CSAR) operations.
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Main Bases: The squadron was based at Udorn Royal Thai Air Force Base and later at Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Air Force Base (NKP), both in Thailand, providing crucial support for U.S. air operations in Southeast Asia.
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Aircraft Used: The main aircraft used by the 40th ARRS was the HH-53 “Super Jolly Green Giant” helicopter, equipped for long-range rescue missions behind enemy lines.
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“Jolly Green” Call Sign: The squadron was known by the radio call sign “Jolly Green,” a name that became synonymous with bravery and successful rescue missions.
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Notable Rescue - Bat 21: The 40th ARRS played a key role in the legendary “Bat 21” rescue in April 1972, one of the largest and most complex search and rescue missions of the Vietnam War.
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Combat Losses: The unit suffered losses during operations; several helicopters were shot down, and airmen were killed or captured during attempts to rescue downed pilots in hostile territory.
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Decorations: The 40th ARRS received multiple unit citations, including the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Combat “V” Device, for extraordinary heroism in combat.
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Innovations: The squadron often adapted new tactics and technologies, including night vision equipment and aerial refueling, to increase the success rate of their rescue missions.
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International Cooperation: The 40th worked closely with South Vietnamese and Thai forces, as well as other U.S. military units, to coordinate complex rescue operations across borders.
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Legacy: The actions and traditions of the 40th ARRS continue in today’s Air Force Rescue units, with the “Jolly Green” heritage and motto “That Others May Live” still honored.
