AFSPC helicopter deployment aids Hurricane Katrina relief efforts

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Jennifer Thibault
  • Air Force Space Command Public Affairs
PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. (AFPN) --  Air Force Space Command deployed eight helicopters and their crews to Columbus Air Force Base, Miss., to aid in hurricane relief efforts beginning Sept. 2.

This is the first time the command has assigned helicopters outside its normal area of operations.

“The helicopters assigned to 20th Air Force are primarily dedicated to providing security ‘top cover’ for America’s ICBM force,” said Maj. Gen. Frank G. Klotz, 20th AF commander. “However, because of their inherent capabilities, such as forward-looking infrared system, they are also ideally suited for search-and-rescue missions.”

The helicopter crews have been conducting search-and-rescue missions as well as delivering humanitarian relief operation supplies for two days. As of Sept. 7, they had flown 41 sorties, performed two evacuations and delivered about 22,800 pounds of meals, water and medical supplies along the Gulf Coast.

These operations are being conducted by the command’s eight helicopters and 83 pilots, maintainers and support personnel who now make up the 620th Air Expeditionary Squadron.

“The unit marks the single largest deployment of AFSPC helicopters anywhere, ever,” General Klotz said. “We have, in essence, created a stand-alone helicopter squadron and deployed them halfway across America. What is more, we put together the deployment plan and were prepared to launch in just 24 hours.”

Their continued speedy support has not gone unnoticed.

“I am extremely proud of everyone who made this happen and for our troops who are now providing help directly to those who so desperately need it in Mississippi and Louisiana,” the general said.

The outlook for the unit is uncertain, said Maj. Bill Thomas, a 620th AES operations officer.

“We continue to refine our mission,” he said. “We are focusing on search-and-rescue sweeps in southern Mississippi and supporting relief operations as required.” (Courtesy of AFSPC News Service)