A Call for Unification

In September 1963, Det 3 PARC commander Major Alan Saunders submitted a comprehensive study outlining the need for a professional rescue service in SEA.

Saunders also requested that the US Air Force be the responsible service for conducting all SAR missions during the war.

Agreeing with Saunders’ study, the JCS approved sending ARS helicopters and personnel to SEA and assigned the SAR mission to the USAF.

Following the Gulf of Tonkin Incident in August 1964, four ARS detachments arrived in SEA, two in South Vietnam and two in Thailand. This marked the beginning of what would become the most advanced SAR force in the world.

In January 1966, the Air Rescue Service was renamed the Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Service (ARRS) to better define is world-wide rescue and recovery responsibilities.

Click here to return to Search and Rescue in Southeast Asia(SAR in SEA)

Click here to the Southeast Asia War Gallery

Screening at Entrance
All visitors may be screened with a metal detector upon entry. In addition all bags are subject to search and may be placed through an X-Ray machine. Weapons are not permitted including pocket knives and firearms, to include conceal carry and other dangerous weapons.
Prohibited Items
Prohibited Items:
- Firearms*
- Knives
- Box cutters
- Food and Soda Drinks
- Alcohol
- Coolers

* Firearms, to include conceal carry and other dangerous weapons, are specifically prohibited in Federal facilities in accordance with 18 USC §930 (c)

Permitted Items:
- Water bottles (clear, sealed bottle, up to 20 oz.)
- Purses
- Camera bags
- Diaper bags
- Strollers
- Service animals

Please note the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force is not responsible for items left in vehicles.
Click here for frequently asked questions regarding items permitted inside the museum.
Visitor Photography Notice
Notice: Visitors may be filmed, photographed or recorded by the U.S. Air Force for educational and promotional uses, including for posting on public websites and social media.
Individuals are permitted to take their own photographs or videos while touring the museum.