KADENA AIR BASE, Okinawa — The 33rd Rescue Squadron will split into two smaller units this summer.
Public affairs chief Lt. Col. Kevin Krejcarek of the 18th Wing said earlier this week that half of the 120-member squadron is being reassigned to the new 31st Rescue Squadron.
The Air Force has yet to set a date for what it calls a “stand-up,” Krejcarek said.
“This is all part of an Air Force-mandated reorganization of combat rescue squadrons, designed to give commanders greater flexibility with their combat search-and-rescue assets,” Krejcarek said. “The two squadrons will have about 60 members each.”
No extra manpower or aircraft will be assigned to Kadena in connection with the reorganization.
The 31st squadron will be assigned to train and equip combat rescue officers, pararescuemen and support personnel, he said.
The 33rd will focus on training aircrews and flying HH-60 helicopters to support combat search-and-rescue missions.
