In a ceremony steeped in tradition and brimming with anticipation, the New York Air National Guard’s 106th Rescue Wing welcomed the arrival of its new HH-60W Jolly Green II search and rescue helicopters on Oct. 25th at Francis S. Gabreski Air National Guard Base. This event marks a significant leap forward for the wing, as these advanced aircraft officially replace the aging HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopters. The new Jolly Green IIs bring a suite of cutting-edge technologies and capabilities that will redefine the wing’s ability to conduct rescue operations in the most challenging environments.
The HH-60W Jolly Green II, aptly named after its predecessor, the Vietnam-era HH-3E Jolly Green Giant, is purpose-built for combat search and rescue. This formidable aircraft boasts integrated mission systems designed to enhance situational awareness in contested airspace, bolstering the safety and effectiveness of aircrews during daring rescue missions. Among its many features are multi-function displays providing critical flight information to pilots, a sophisticated suite of defensive systems including radar warning receivers, and robust communication systems like the LINK 16 tactical data link network. These advancements empower the HH-60W to execute its vital mission: to recover isolated personnel from hostile or denied territory, no matter the time of day, weather conditions, or the nature of the threat.
Colonel Shawn P. Fitzgerald, commander of the 106th Rescue Wing, underscored the significance of this upgrade, stating, “This is a momentous occasion which allows for us to reflect on where we are as an organization and where we are headed.” He acknowledged the challenges inherent in transitioning to such a technologically advanced aircraft, noting that it requires “months and additional intensive training and practical hands-on experience.” This sentiment was echoed by Captain Nic Arosemena, a pilot in the wing’s 101st Rescue Squadron, who spoke highly of the outgoing HH-60G, affectionately known as the “Golf” by pilots. Arosemena acknowledged the legacy of the “Golf”, which served valiantly in conflicts from the Persian Gulf War to the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. However, he drew a sharp contrast with the new “Whiskey” model, emphasizing that “It is much different.”
The arrival of the HH-60W Jolly Green II at the 106th Rescue Wing is just one facet of a broader modernization effort sweeping through the New York Air National Guard. Maj. Gen. Michael W. Bank, commander of the New York Air National Guard and a former commander of the 106th Rescue Wing, highlighted this ongoing transformation, stating that the wing is “modernizing to be ready for the 21st century Air Force that we need.” This push for modernization is not solely focused on equipment; it extends to partnerships and training as well. Major General Raymond F. Shields Jr., adjutant general of New York, emphasized the importance of these new helicopters in light of the state’s burgeoning military training partnership with Sweden.
The ceremony also provided an opportunity to honor those who keep these sophisticated machines running. Tech. Sgt. Michael Tessar was recognized as the first dedicated crew chief for the brand-new HH-60W, a testament to the vital role maintainers play in ensuring mission success. The event culminated in a thrilling display of the HH-60W’s capabilities as Lt. Col. James Liston and Staff Sgt. Joe Devito, the first crew qualified on the aircraft, executed a demonstration fly-by, leaving no doubt about the wing’s readiness to face the challenges of tomorrow.
As the roar of the Jolly Green IIs faded and the applause subsided, Colonel Fitzgerald left the audience with a poignant reminder, stating, “Although we celebrate the arrival of our brand new helicopter, we must always remember it is the Airman that makes the system work.” With the HH-60W now in their capable hands, the 106th Rescue Wing stands poised to execute its mission of global personnel recovery and search and rescue operations with renewed vigor and unparalleled precision, ensuring that no one is left behind.
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