John Ranck

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.

The 48th Air Rescue Squadron (48 ARS) was originally constituted as the 48th Air Rescue Squadron in 1952 and activated at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. Its primary mission was to conduct search and rescue (SAR) operations, providing life-saving support for both military and civilian personnel. Throughout its history, the unit was equipped with various rescue aircraft and helicopters, adapting to evolving mission requirements. The squadron was inactivated in 1960, but its legacy continues through the broader tradition of USAF rescue operations.