An official website of the United States government
Here's how you know
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Reserve Citizen Airmen headline Miami Air Show

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Jared Trimarchi
  • 920th Rescue Wing Public Affairs
Even rain bands of subtropical storm Alberto couldn’t stop the combat search and rescue demonstration performed by the men and women of the 920th Rescue Wing during the 2nd Annual National Salute to America’s Heroes Air and Sea Show May 26-27, over Miami Beach, Florida.

“This is the second year we have participated in the air show and last year the weather was perfect,” said Chief Master Sgt. Shane Smith, 920th Operations Group superintendent. “Alberto provided us with more realistic rescue weather … strong winds and heavy rain.”

Although the sea portion of the show was canceled, military personnel from active, guard and reserve units performed numerous maneuvers and flight patterns along South Beach for thousands of spectators.

“Participating in the Miami Beach air show was a great opportunity which showcased the Air Force’s might and capabilities, while telling people our story and remembering our fallen brothers and sisters in uniform, said Tech. Sgt. Sean Sylvia, pararescueman from the 306th Rescue Squadron at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona.

Rescue Warriors from the 920th RQW demonstrated CSAR capabilities flying two HH-60G Pave Hawks over the Atlantic Ocean with Guardian Angel Airmen on board performing open-water rescue drills of isolated individuals.

“We try to stress to the audience, we are not a demo team,” Smith said. “We don’t travel from air show to air show. What we demonstrate is what we do in combat.”

The 920th RQW also had an HC-130P/N King tanker aircraft demonstrate aerial refueling with two HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopters.

“This Memorial Day means even more to us since the recent passing of our brothers aboard Jolly 51," Sylvia added. “For some families, remembering those who aren’t with us anymore is an everyday occurrence. We will always remember their sacrifice.”