The photo in my DC-3/C-47 post reminded me of the U.S. military support of scientific activities in the Antarctic that have gone on for many years, starting with the U.S. Navy's Operation High Jump in 1946-47, which was primarily carried out by ships. In 1955, the Navy established Antarctic Development Squadron SIX (VX-6, later VXE-6) to focus on support of Antarctic activities.
VX-6 operated a number of R4Ds, both wheel- and ski-equipped, to support U.S. research stations on the continent, staging through New Zealand for the long flights to and from Antarctica. In October of 1956, one of those R4Ds landed at the South Pole. Flight activities were generally restricted to the summer months, avoiding harsh weather conditions. There were accidents and several aircraft were lost.
In addition to R4Ds, VX-6 operated ski-equipped P2V-7LP (later LP-2H) Neptunes on the ice. They also operated helicopters, such as the HUS-1 (UH-34D) and later the UH-1N Huey. In the early days, they even operated the DHC Otter (U.S. Navy designation UC-1).
In 1961, VX-6 took a major step forward when they obtained four Air Force C-130Bs and modified them with wheel/ski gear for operations from the ice. They were shortly thereafter redesignated LC-130F and were similar to Air Force C-130Ds, which were used for Arctic support. In the 1970s, VXE-6 got six newer LC-130Rs.
Takeoffs on the ice were dramatic, often involving the use of JATO rocket assist to shorten the takeoff run.
The Air Force had concentrated their C-130D ski birds in the New York Air National Guard and over the years replaced these early 130s with LC-130Hs.
In the late 1990s, the decision was made to turn over aviation support of Antarctic research from the Navy to the NY ANG's 109th Airlift Wing with their LC-130H ski birds. A couple of the best Navy 130s were converted to LC-130Hs for use by the 109th.
In 1999, VXE-6 was disestablished, ending Navy involvement in Antarctic activities. The 109th continues the mission with its 10 LC-130Hs; there has been some discussion about upgrading to LC-130Js but so far, no funds have been found.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Deep_Freeze