A combined team of Guardsmen and Reservists tackled air, sea, and space operations during Human Space Flight Support (HSFS) training, focused on astronaut recovery through search and rescue operations, held from Jan. 14-17 at Patrick Space Force Base in Florida. The end goal was to prepare a greater roster of SARS personnel for an increasing number of crewed missions.
Note: this article uses quotes and information from a public affairs article originally written by Tech. Sgt. Della Creech of the 315th Airlift Wing.
The training brought together Air National Guardsmen from the 204th Airlift Squadron based at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, with Reservists from the 315th Airlift Wing at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, and the 308th Rescue Squadron at Patrick Space Force Base. This joint effort aimed to refine the airdrop techniques required to recover astronauts safely from open-ocean splashdowns following space missions.
Expanding Need
“The space industry has seen tremendous growth since 2020, when Joint Base Hickam first took on this mission,” explained Maj. Ryan Schieber, Human Space Flight Support lead planner for the 315th Operations Support Squadron. “With the rise in SpaceX launches, Boeing Starliner missions, and the upcoming Artemis program in 2026, this training is more critical than ever.”
As the space sector grows, astronaut recovery missions have increased to at least three or four annually, with the promise of an even higher cadence of crewed missions. This uptick prompted the 204th Airlift Squadron to form a joint task force with the 308th Rescue Squadron under the 920th Rescue Wing. The 920th RW, the only Air Force Reserve Command wing dedicated to combat search and rescue, collaborates with the 315th AW to certify aircrews for HSFS airdrops.
Expanding The Roster Of Qualified Rescue Airmen
“Our goal is to certify the Charleston Reserve pilots, loadmasters, and aircrew for this mission,” said Master Sgt. Makaio Roberts, deputy program manager for the 204th AS HSFS team. “They’re vital partners alongside the 308th Rescue Squadron as we support NASA, SpaceX, Boeing, and the Artemis missions with launches and recoveries.”
In 2025, the 315th AW officially partnered with the 204th AS to gain HSFS airdrop certification. These training exercises enhance efficiency and preparedness for the multi-capable Airmen who participate.
About The Training
“This training involves realistic offshore airdrops of personnel and equipment, simulating the recovery of isolated individuals in maritime environments,” said Capt. Nicolas Walsh, a combat rescue officer and drop zone controller with the 308th RQS.
During 7.5 hours of flight time, the joint task force completed 10 airdrops, including 30 pararescuemen jumps in challenging winter seas. Despite the limited timeframe, the experienced aircrews and maintenance teams made the most of the opportunity, ensuring high levels of readiness.
“The equipment we drop and the rescue qualifications we practice are essential to ensuring astronauts can be safely recovered during splashdowns,” Roberts emphasized. “This training directly supports real-world launches and recoveries for the HSFS program.”
Participating in HSFS training provides C-17 aircrews with a unique mission experience, broadening their operational skill set. Working alongside the 204th AS and 308th RQS helps develop Airmen into versatile, mission-ready professionals.
“This mission is distinct for the C-17,” Schieber said. “It exposes the aircrews to a specialized rescue airdrop role, enhancing their readiness for future challenges.”
As the pace of space exploration accelerates, the demand for search and rescue operations is expected to grow, a challenge the joint task force is ready to meet. “Space travel is increasing, and we’re prepared to respond,” Schieber added.