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The Joint Task Force SEVEN search and rescue capability waa the
responsibility basically of the Test Services Unit's eighth element,

the Search and Kescue Element,

The element utilized seven SA-16 air

craft and crews,
Besides the search and rescue capability, re-supply support of
project and weather islands was a prime function of the element.

The

re-supply support mission actually required more time and effort than
did the search and rescue mission,

Aircraft of the element, because

of their water landing capability, were used extensively in re-supply .
functions to such outlying islands as Kapingamarangi, Kusaie, Utirik, ”
Ujelang, Hongelap, and sotho,
The element's aircraft participated in every shot rehearsal and
actual shot day mission, always with one SA#16 on orbit and frequently
with two or more aircraft in the air,

Intercepts of disabled aircraft

also were a major activity of the rescue aircraft; numerous aircraft
with engine failure or other difficulty were intercepted and escorted
to safe Landings,

AFWL/‘HQ

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