About this Unit
The 57th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron (57th ARRS) was a United States Air Force unit established in the 1950s. Primarily tasked with search and rescue operations, the squadron played a significant role during the Cold War, particularly with missions based out of Keflavik Air Base, Iceland. The 57th ARRS operated various aircraft including the HH-3E "Jolly Green Giant" helicopters and HC-130 aircraft, providing vital support for downed aircrews and other emergencies in the North Atlantic region. The squadron was inactivated in the 1990s as part of post-Cold War realignments within the Air Force.
Historical Facts
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Origin and Activation: The 57th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron (ARRS) was originally activated as the 57th Air Rescue Squadron in 1952, providing critical search and rescue support during the Cold War.
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Strategic Location: The squadron was famously based at Keflavik, Iceland, where it was responsible for search and rescue operations across the North Atlantic — an area known for its harsh weather and treacherous seas.
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Cold War Mission: During the height of the Cold War, the 57th ARRS played a crucial role in providing rescue coverage for US and NATO aircraft, as well as supporting downed aircrew and maritime emergencies.
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Aircraft Legacy: Over its history, the 57th ARRS operated several legendary aircraft, including the HH-3E "Jolly Green Giant" and the HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopters, both renowned for their rescue capabilities.
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Famous Rescues: The squadron was involved in numerous dramatic rescues, including plucking stranded fishermen and downed pilots from the frigid North Atlantic, sometimes in hurricane-force winds and zero visibility.
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“That Others May Live” Motto: Like all Air Force Rescue units, the 57th ARRS lived by the motto “That Others May Live,” highlighting the squadron’s commitment to risking their lives to save others.
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International Cooperation: The 57th ARRS frequently cooperated with NATO allies, the Icelandic Coast Guard, and local authorities, building strong ties and sharing expertise in challenging rescue scenarios.
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Operation Deep Freeze: The unit participated in Operation Deep Freeze, supporting US operations and scientific research in the Arctic and Antarctic regions.
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Humanitarian Missions: Beyond military rescues, the squadron also responded to civilian emergencies, natural disasters, and medical evacuations, demonstrating versatility and humanitarian spirit.
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Deactivation and Legacy: The 57th ARRS was inactivated in 1995 as part of post-Cold War drawdowns, but its legacy lives on in the Air Force rescue community and the many lives saved during its decades of service.
