Patrick Space Force Base’s 920th Rescue Wing Celebrates 63 Years of Life‑Saving Combat Search and Rescue Service

Founded in 1963, the 920th Rescue Wing is assigned to Air Force Reserve Command

BREVARD COUNTY • PATRICK SPACE FORCE BASE, FLORIDA – The 920th Rescue Wing marked a significant milestone last week, celebrating 63 years of distinguished service in combat search and rescue, a mission that has saved countless lives and shaped the unit into one of the nation’s premier rescue organizations.

Founded in 1963, the 920th Rescue Wing is assigned to Air Force Reserve Command and is based at Patrick Space Force Base on Florida’s Space Coast. Since its inception, the wing has been dedicated to the specialized mission of locating, recovering, and medically treating isolated personnel in some of the world’s most challenging and hostile environments.

“Today we celebrate 63 years of our proud heritage in combat search and rescue,” the wing shared in a statement, reflecting on decades of global operations, humanitarian missions, and unwavering commitment to the rescue motto: That Others May Live.

Over the years, the 920th has evolved alongside advancements in aviation, technology, and combat tactics, transitioning through multiple aircraft platforms and mission sets while maintaining its core focus on personnel recovery.

Today, the wing operates a fleet that includes HC-130J Combat King II aircraft and HH-60G Pave Hawk or HH-60W Jolly Green II helicopters, providing long-range infiltration, aerial refueling, and recovery capabilities.

The wing’s highly trained Airmen include pilots, loadmasters, flight engineers, pararescuemen, combat rescue officers, special mission aviators, and a wide range of support professionals. Together, they form an integrated force capable of executing complex rescue operations in combat zones, disaster areas, and austere environments around the world.

In addition to combat operations, the 920th Rescue Wing has a long history of supporting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions, including hurricane response, search-and-rescue operations after natural disasters, and medical evacuations.

These efforts have made the unit a familiar and trusted presence not only overseas, but also throughout Florida and the southeastern United States.

Leadership within the wing emphasized that the anniversary is not only a celebration of past achievements, but also a recognition of the Airmen who continue to carry the mission forward.

“For more than six decades, generations of Airmen have answered the call to serve in the most demanding conditions imaginable,” the statement noted. “Their professionalism, courage, and selfless dedication define who we are as a wing.”

As the 920th Rescue Wing looks ahead, officials say the unit remains focused on modernizing equipment, strengthening training, and preparing Airmen for the evolving demands of global rescue operations—ensuring that the proud legacy established 63 years ago will continue well into the future.

From its early beginnings to its current role as a cornerstone of Air Force rescue operations, the 920th Rescue Wing’s anniversary serves as a powerful reminder of a simple but enduring promise: to bring everyone home.

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