An A-1 Skyraider pilot stands beside his armed aircraft, which is marked with a 'SAR Alert' sign designating it ready for immediate scramble to support combat search and rescue operations. Skyraiders flying the 'Sandy' mission escorted rescue helicopters and suppressed enemy ground fire to protect downed airmen, a demanding and dangerous role that made the A-1 one of the most respected aircraft of the Vietnam War. Project: 218963