Air Sea Rescue Collection

The new Air Sea Rescue boat. The RAF vessel 2558. Location unknown. Picture taken 12th July 1943

Survivors of a downed Wellington pictured just before their rescue in the Bay of Biscay. They are rescued by a Sunderland of RAF Coastal Command. 27th August 1944

A Short Sunderland of No. 10 Squadron takes off from the water after alighting to rescue 3 survivors from a Vickers Wellington of No

A Short Sunderland of No. 10 Squadronon the water after alighting to rescue 3 survivors from a Vickers Wellington of No

Insignia of Allied forces, World War II, 1939-1945 (colour litho)
6015233 Insignia of Allied forces, World War II, 1939-1945 (colour litho) by English School, (20th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Insignia of Allied forces, World War II, 1939-1945)

A rescue at sea in the year 2000 (chromolitho)
974587 A rescue at sea in the year 2000 (chromolitho) by European School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: A rescue at sea in the year 2000)

The Air Sea Rescue Service, now equipped with guns should they become under attack. Picture taken 16th July 1943

Captain of the HSL of the Air Sea Rescue Service, about to release a carrier pigeon called " The Admiral" now used to send messages when the wireless is out of action

Westland Whirlwind helicopter making a rescue, 1973. Artist: Michael Walters
Westland Whirlwind helicopter making a rescue, 1973. A Westland Whirlwind HAS 10 beloning to RAF Search & Rescue lowers a member of the rescue team to recover a pilot in his life raft

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"Heroes of the Skies: Air Sea Rescue in Action" In a dramatic scene captured in black and white, survivors of a downed Wellington aircraft cling to hope as they await their rescue in the treacherous waters of the Bay of Biscay. The year is 1943, and amidst the chaos of World War II, these brave individuals are about to experience firsthand the unwavering dedication and courage teams. A Short Sunderland flying boat from No. 10 Squadron gracefully takes off from the water's surface, its powerful engines propelling it skyward after successfully alighting to save lives. This iconic image showcases not only the incredible capabilities of these aircraft but also highlights their vital role in rescuing stranded personnel during wartime. The insignia proudly displayed on Allied forces' planes serves as a symbol of unity and determination throughout this global conflict that raged from 1939 to 1945. These colorful lithographs remind us that even amidst destruction, humanity's resilience shines through with every successful air sea rescue mission. Fast forward to more recent times—the year 2000—where we witness another daring rescue at sea depicted through vibrant chromolithography. A modern-day testament to bravery and technological advancements, this artwork captures an intense moment when lives hang in the balance while skilled rescuers navigate turbulent waters. The Westland Whirlwind helicopter emerges as a true hero among heroes—a lifeline for those stranded at sea. In Michael Walters' captivating artwork from 1973, we see this remarkable machine swooping down with precision and grace to pluck survivors out of danger's grip. Not limited solely to aerial operations, Air Sea Rescue expands its reach onto open waters with vessels like RAF vessel 2558—an enigmatic craft whose location remains unknown but whose purpose is clear: saving lives no matter what challenges lie ahead. As threats evolve over time, so too does Air Sea Rescue adapt accordingly.