The United States Air Force (USAF) produced the film “Faces of Rescue” in 1967 to portray the exploits of the USAF Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Service. The Sikorsky HH-53C Jolly Green Giant crews are featured during their efforts to pull Republic F-105D Thunderchief pilot and Flight Lead Lieutenant James DeVoss from enemy-held jungle in North Vietnam. DeVoss, who was injured during ejection from his stricken Thunderchief, narrates his side of the rescue story. The film, which includes footage of the actual rescue and radio calls from the event, was uploaded to YouTube by ZenosWarbirds.
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Along with the HH-53C Jolly Green Giant the film also stars the USAF HC-130P Combat King airborne rescue controller/tanker aircraft and the A-1 Skyraider combat search and rescue (CSAR) Sandys who provide close air support for the downed pilot and the Jolly Greens. The ARRS executed 2,780 successful personnel rescues during the Vietnam War. The rescue of Lieutenant DeVoss was not routine but a successful save is a successful save. The ARRS lives on as the Air Rescue Service (ARS), its assets divided between Air Combat Command (ACC), Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC), United States Air Forces in Europe (USAFE) and Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) including Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC) and Air National Guard (ANG) rescue units.
