Although the smallest squadron currently based at RNAS Culdrose, 771 Naval Air Squadron probably has the biggest reputation.  On call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, the Squadron's primary role is to provide military and civilian search and rescue for the South West region. Aircrew maintain a 15 minute alert status from sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset, and 45 minute alert at night. In most cases, crews are airborne within 5 minutes of being scrambled.

Capable of operating up to a 200 nautical mile radius of Culdrose, 771 Squadron has carried out an average of 220 missions every year for the past ten years.  These have varied from long-range rescues of sailors plucked to safety from their storm tossed vessels to rescuing swimmers, divers, surfers and cliff fallers in difficulties around the region's coastline.

Having formed in 1939 and flying various fixed wing aircraft, 771 received the Hoverfly helicopter in 1945, making it the first Royal Navy Squadron to operate helicopters. As a helicopter trials squadron during the 1960’s, 771 developed pioneering techniques now common at many search and rescue squadrons and with the introduction of the Whirlwind HAR 3 the squadron assumed a dedicated search and rescue role.

The Whirlwind was replaced by the Wessex, which was itself replaced by the Sea King in 1988. With the Sea King’s more powerful engines, longer range and improved avionics, the Squadron assumed its current long range, all weather, day/night Search and Rescue role.

The hornets on the Squadron’s crest originate from the earliest days when, amongst other aircraft, 771 flew the Sea Hornet. In addition, the Squadron long ago adopted the Ace of Clubs as its logo, and this is now proudly displayed on the nose and sides of its aircraft. The Squadron’s distinctive red and grey aircraft have become a familiar and welcome sight around Cornish coasts, ready to answer the call of those in distress and holding true to their motto

Lieutenant Paul Forbes joined the Navy in 1992 and has been on 771 Squadron for nearly a year. He has flown over 1500hours and is the second pilot today.

Lieutenant John Bramwell is the observer, and is responsible for operating the radar, which gives the crew the ability to operate in all weathers. He joined the Navy in 1987 and is the Squadron Senior Observer.

Today’s aircrewman is Leading Aircrewman ‘Cags’ Lacy. As the winch operator, he is responsible for conducting all winching operations and despatching the diver.

The SAR diver is Leading Aircrewman ‘Wiggy’ Wigfull. The SAR diver is a very specialised role which gives the Royal Navy SAR helicopter the ability to use a free swimming diver to accomplish rescues from upturned boats etc. Divers train to jump from the aircraft at heights of up to 40 feet wearing full diving kit. Wiggy is also paramedic trained, adding further versatility to the crew.