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HSC 23 Conducts Search and Rescue Training with Continuing Promise 2008

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS080527-05
Release Date: 5/27/2008 12:27:00 PM

By Spc. Brian R. Williams, USS Boxer Public Affairs

USS BOXER, At Sea (NNS) -- Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23, embarked aboard USS Boxer (LHD 4), conducted search and rescue (SAR) training just a few miles of the coast of El Salvador May 21, in support of the Pacific phase of Continuing Promise (CP) 2008.

The CP deployment to the region builds on and encourages the establishment of new partnerships between and among nations, non-governmental organizations (NGO), and international organizations to demonstrate the lasting bonds and shared interests among neighbors.

HSC 23's primary mission aboard Boxer is providing search and rescue swimmers for all helicopter operations throughout the humanitarian civic assistance (HCA) deployment to the region.

The ability to provide ship-to-shore movement anytime, anywhere of personnel, cargo and equipment by aircraft and landing craft is one of Boxer's core missions as an amphibious assault ship. Boxer serves also as an enabling platform through which military and non-governmental organizations can coordinate and carry out humanitarian efforts. The same flexibility and configuration that make Boxer an effective warship also make her an extraordinarily effective ship for performing HCA missions.

The Sailors and helicopters of HSC 23 are on hand to ensure the movement of equipment, supplies and personnel is safe and are constantly circling above Boxer ready to recover any casualties.

"During troop movements we must have an airborne SAR helicopter flying at all times for our own troops and patients from El Salvador," said HSC 23's Senior Chief Aviation Warfare Systems Operator (AW/NAC) John A. Mautner. "Just in case something happens to one of our people or aircraft and either go into the water; we are the immediate response team."

While the training fulfilled an annual requirement for most of the SAR swimmers, it was also a chance for new members of the SAR team to get their initial qualifications.

"Annuals are the minimum for us, but throughout the year it's always good to train for the mission and to keep us proficient," said Mautner.

SAR teams use a technique called a direct deployment procedure. It is when a rescue swimmer attaches to a hook and rope, slides down into the water from the helicopter and completes a quick recovery of the personnel in the water.

"It's intensive," added Mautner. "We have six swimmers on a two helicopter detachment and we always have to stay physically fit, stay on our toes and keep our heads on a swivel."

Through constant training and exercises, HSC 23's SAR team will remain capable to readily respond to emergencies.

"There's nothing better than training like we execute," said Mautner. "So every chance we can get, we want to make sure we are proficient in every aspect of search and rescue."

For more news from USS Boxer, visit www.navy.mil/local/lhd4/.