06/28/2002

By KGW Staff

Oregon Senators took a big step forward in efforts to upgrade the National Guard’s search and rescue unit in the state.

On a voice vote, the senate approved an amendment that would give nearly $5 million to the Salem-based Army National Guard. The money will go toward upgrades and the hiring of up to 25 additional employees.

Helicopter improvements outlined in the amendment to the FY2003 Defense Authorization bill would enhance the

readiness of Oregon National Guard troops for combat search and rescue missions in rugged terrain.

The upgrade is much needed at this time because Oregon's Air Force Reserve’s 939th Rescue Wing is preparing to transform into a refueling wing.

The 939th Combat Search and Rescue Wing's search and rescue equipment will be transferred to Davis-Mothan Air Force Base in Arizona. The headquarters for the Arizona unit will be based in Florida. The mid-air refueling unit will remain at Portland Air Base, located at Portland International Airport.

"A better-equipped National Guard force will also be able to provide the Northwest with search and rescue services comparable to those provided by the 939th Combat Search and Rescue Wing of the Air Force, which is being retasked as a mid-air refueling wing." according to a statement from U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Gordon Smith.

A Black Hawk helicopter crew helps in a rescue mission. (File Photo)

Northwest needs sufficient search and rescue capability, whether to respond to a disaster in the mountains or a whole host of scenarios. Additional training for the Oregon National Guard will help save lives here at home."

Shortly after accepting the Wyden-Smith amendment, the Senate voted to approve the entire Department of Defense authorization bill. The House of Representatives approved a separate defense authorization bill earlier this

year. The Senate will now go into conference with the House to resolve any differences in the legislation before voting for final passage.