Our mission

To organize, train and operate in a combat environment providing aerial rescue services.

To maintain a state of readiness and execute assigned rescue missions of downed airmen.

To assist the state of New York in disaster relief and other state emergencies as directed by the Governor.

The 106th operates and maintains the only rescue aircraft in the Northeastern United States designed for aerial refueling. We fly the Lockheed HC-130P and the Sikorski HH-60. The HC-130P “Hercules” is operated by a six member crew and is configured for both air to air refuel and search duties. With a long rage flying capability, the HC-130P is often used for over water search and rescue missions; from the Azores to the Bahamas. The unit also operates the HH-60 “Pave Hawk” for search and rescue. The rotary winged aircraft flies with a four member crew. During December 1994 the 106th the longest over water rescue mission in the history of the aircraft, when they saved Ukrainian sailor Alexander Taranov.

Our proud history

The 106th Rescue Wing, New York Air National Guard, is the parent organization of the oldest flying unit in the Air National Guard, the 102nd Rescue Squadron. The 102nd traces it roots back to the 1st Aero Company which was formed in 1915 on Long Island, New York. The unit was officially formed in November 1915 as an unnumbered aviation detachment of the first Battalion Signal Corps under the command of Captain Raynal Biling.

1st area company

They trained with JN4 “Jennys” on a field in Mineola, Long Island. Not everyone was happy with the federal call up in 1916. Following World War I, the unit was renumbered the 102nd Observation Squadron and assigened to the New York Guard, a Militia force of Citizen Soldiers

"The 106th Rescue Wing flying demonstration will conclude with a special Memorial Day tribute that you won't want to miss."