Search And Rescue Exercise Comes To 19 Wing Comox

19 Wing Comox is hosting the largest Canadian Search and Rescue Exercise in nine years starting today.

More than a hundred CAF members are taking part in the exercise, along with about 70 American personnel from the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Navy, and U.S. Air Force.

Together, 24 squadrons and units will be using 16 aircraft that will respond to over 60 simulated Search and rescue scenarios until Friday.

The exercise has been designed to be realistic and challenging to ensure SAR crews are ready to respond when a call for help is received.

“A successful SAR system is a result of a collective effort made by all SAR partners,” says Lieutenant-Colonel Francois Fasquelle, Commanding Officer of 442 Transport and Rescue Squadron in Comox.

Fasquelle adds, “Many organizations are involved due to the wide range of terrain and weather in North America. The list of partners is made up of government, military, volunteer and industry groups. We need to work together to provide effective SAR services.”

For more information, visit Government of Canada.