Liberty Wing welcomes new mission, aircraft Published June 20, 2006 By Capt Beth Horine 48th FW Public Affairs USAFE News Service -- The first two HH-60G Combat Search and Rescue helicopters from the 56th Rescue Squadron arrived at RAF Lakenheath from Naval Air Station Keflavik, Iceland via C-17 Monday and Tuesday. Five aircraft and many operators and maintainers are moving to RAF Lakenheath as part of the reallocation of the Iceland-based unit. “We’re thrilled to welcome the Airmen from the 56th RQS to RAF Lakenheath,” said Brig. Gen. Robert P. Steel, 48th Fighter Wing commander. “Although they’ve been a part of our wing for about a year as a geographically separated unit up at Iceland, having the 56th RQS continue its mission from here only increases our wing’s ability to meet our nation’s warfighting mission,” the general added. Three more helicopters and approximately 25 people will continue to arrive at RAF Lakenheath over the next several months to help bring the squadron back to full operational strength, according to Lt. Col. Steve Huss, 56th RQS director of operations. “The 48 FW has made the 56 RQS transition to RAF Lakenheath extremely smooth,” Colonel Huss said. “The Jolly Green Giants look forward to the outstanding opportunities this move creates. We look forward to further integration into the 48 FW.” According to U.S Air Forces in Europe, approximately 200 U.S. Air Force personnel and their families will be assigned to the RAF Lakenheath-based 56th RQS over the next year. The USAF will maintain two HH-60 helicopters in Iceland until mid-September. A ribbon cutting ceremony and open-house of the 56th RQS will occur later this summer at RAF Lakenheath.