As the 56th RQS is on the verge of a new deployment to the Middle East, Ludo Mennes and Frank Visser visit the squadron for an update on its activities.
Aviano Airbase in North-east Italy has been a strategic location for the US Armed Forces for many years. Due to its proximity to the Balkans, the base played a major role in the conflicts caused by the break-up of the former Republic of Yugoslavia in the nineties.
The 31st Fighter Wing (FW), operating two F-16 squadrons, has called Aviano its home since 1994. However, since July 2018, another flying unit has been based at Aviano. The 56th Rescue Squadron (RQS). The squadron fly the HH-60G “Pave Hawk” helicopter and is responsible for the Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) of airmen and personnel recovery.
