An HH-60G rescue helicopter assigned to the 56th Rescue Squadron at RAF Lakenheath, England, had to make a precautionary landing near the base after a windshield wiper motor failed and filled the cockpit with smoke, according to base officials. The incident occurred on Nov. 6 during a routine training mission with six persons on board, states a Nov. 7 Lakenheath release. The pilot followed emergency procedures and landed the helicopter at Santon Downham, an area about five miles east of the base, with no injuries. A maintenance crew responded to the incident and fixed the helicopter within six hours, according to the release. The cause of the motor anomaly is under investigation.
President Donald Trump signed legislation reopening the federal government late Nov. 12, ending the longest shutdown in U.S. history. The move sets the stage for tens of thousands of defense civilians to return to work and guarantees troops will be paid in a few days’ time.
