NEWS RELEASE - Moody units provide search and recovery support for missing F-16 pilot

  • Published
  • By 23rd Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  A personnel recovery team departed Moody to assist with search and rescue of a missing pilot involved in a F-16 mid-air collision off the coast of Charleston, S.C. Oct. 15. 

Moody was notified by the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center at 11 p.m. Oct. 15 to provide personnel search and recovery support for the missing F-16 pilot. 

The missing pilot has been identified as Capt. Nicholas Giglio, from Shaw Air Force Base, S.C. The second pilot, Capt. Lee Bryant, also from Shaw landed safely at Charleston Air Force Base, S.C. 

"Although the pilots are not a member of the 23rd Wing, all of our servicemembers and families are dear to us, and we will always offer the help and support they need," said Lt. Col. Thomas Kunkel, 41st Rescue Squadron commander. 

The 723rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron worked vigorously through the night and into the morning to ensure all aircraft maintenance and inspections were complete. 

Two HH-60G Pavehawk helicopters departed Moody at approximately 9 a.m. with crewmembers, pararescuemen and a combat rescue officer. The HH-60Gs will provide a platform and equipment for recovery during the search effort. 

Shortly after, a HC-130P Combat King departed to provide aerial refueling for the HH-60Gs, enabling rescue efforts to be extended. 

The 23rd Wing was tasked to assist Coast Guard rescue assets in a joint effort to recover the missing pilot because of Moody rescue forces' unique rescue capabilities including persistent search through aerial refueling, the ability to operate at night and in inclement weather and robust medical support. 

"Air Force Rescue is the DoD's personnel recovery expert and we continually train to remain proficient in our core tasks whether peacetime or combat," said Colonel Kunkel. "Right now the need exists for us to utilize our unique capabilities to help a fellow Airman." 

Refer all questions concerning the 23rd Wing's participation in the rescue effort to Moody Public Affairs at (229) 257-3345.