I flew HC-130's in the 33rd ARRS at Kadena from 81-84. We had 5 HC's and 5 HH-53's, and later swapped out for HH-3's. The HH-53's became Pave Low's. It was the best job I ever had, and the most dedicated people I ever worked with. The Combat Rescue mission was very fluid, and at the time, we were still heavy with SEA experienced crews and PJ's. We were the primary SAR unit for the WestPac with additional Jolly Green Squadrons at Osan and Clark. We had a lot of SAR's throughout the region and several drop missions, KAL 007 SAR, and some classified missions.
I later worked early JSOC contingencies with many of the other operators. I know I'm a bit biased, but if any unit is more impressive than Pararescue, I've not seen them. Their incredible volume of training, self reliance, flexibility and physical aptitude is unique. I recently read "None Braver" about Combat Rescue in Afghanistan. It had a chapter about a PJ friend that jumped into a mine field to rescue a severely injured SAS trooper. Just another day for Bill Sine. I wish I could have spent a full career in ARRS. Wearing the "pregnant angel" patch was the most rewarding thing I've been part of.