Member-only story

Air Force Pararescuemen: Guardians of the Sky in the War on Terrorism

Gerald Parker

·8.4k Followers· Follow

Published in None Braver: U S Air Force Pararescuemen In The War On Terrorism

6 min read · 2 weeks before

918 View Claps

90 Respond

Save

Listen

None Braver: U.S. Air Force Pararescuemen in the War on Terrorism

by Michael Hirsh

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1938 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	381 pages

In the annals of military history, few units embody the spirit of selfless sacrifice and unwavering courage like the United States Air Force Pararescuemen (PJs). These elite warriors are the epitome of combat search and rescue (CSAR) specialists, operating in the most hostile and unforgiving environments to retrieve downed pilots, stranded troops, and civilians. During the War on Terrorism, PJs played a pivotal role in numerous high-stakes operations, demonstrating their exceptional skills and unwavering dedication to saving lives.

Origins and Training

The genesis of the PJ program can be traced back to the Korean War, when the need arose for specialized personnel to recover downed pilots behind enemy lines. In 1966, the first official PJ training program was established, and since then, these elite warriors have undergone one of the most rigorous and demanding training regimens in the military.

The PJ training pipeline is designed to test candidates physically, mentally, and emotionally. It involves months of intensive training in parachuting, scuba diving, survival, medical procedures, and combat tactics. Only the most exceptional candidates emerge from this arduous process, earning the coveted PJ badge and the right to serve in one of the most elite units in the Air Force.

Missions and Operations

PJs are primarily tasked with CSAR missions, which involve locating, stabilizing, and extracting downed personnel from hostile or remote areas. They are also responsible for providing medical treatment, conducting reconnaissance, and participating in humanitarian operations.

During the War on Terrorism, PJs were deployed to some of the most dangerous and volatile theaters of conflict. They operated across the Middle East and Afghanistan, where they repeatedly distinguished themselves in high-stakes rescue missions. One notable example was the daring rescue of American troops trapped behind enemy lines during the Battle of Takur Ghar in 2002, for which several PJs were awarded the Air Force Cross.

Specialized Skills

PJs are highly trained in a wide range of specialized skills that enable them to operate effectively in any environment. These skills include:

Parachuting: PJs are expert parachutists who can jump into combat zones from various altitudes and under different conditions.
Scuba Diving: PJs are also trained in scuba diving, allowing them to conduct underwater rescue operations and infiltrate hostile areas.
Survival: PJs are adept at surviving in hostile environments, with training in foraging, shelter building, and water purification.
Medical Treatment: PJs are proficient in providing emergency medical treatment, including advanced trauma care and life-saving procedures.
Combat Tactics: PJs are trained in combat tactics and weapons handling, enabling them to defend themselves and their patients during rescue operations.

Unwavering Dedication

Beyond their exceptional skills and training, PJs are known for their unwavering dedication to saving lives. They operate with a selfless disregard for their own safety, often putting themselves in harm's way to rescue others.

One poignant example of this dedication occurred during the Battle of Sangin in 2010. Staff Sergeant Timothy Wilkinson, a PJ assigned to the 24th Special Tactics Squadron, risked his life to rescue a wounded Marine under intense enemy fire. He repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire while evacuating the injured Marine, ultimately saving his life.

Humanitarian Efforts

In addition to their combat roles, PJs also play a vital role in humanitarian missions. They have deployed to disaster zones around the world, providing medical assistance, search and rescue operations, and other humanitarian aid to those in need.

For example, PJs were instrumental in the relief efforts following the devastating earthquake in Haiti in 2010. They provided medical care to survivors, transported supplies, and helped establish medical facilities in remote areas.

Legacy and Impact

The legacy of Air Force Pararescuemen is one of valor, sacrifice, and unwavering service. They have consistently demonstrated their extraordinary abilities in the most challenging and dangerous environments, saving countless lives and earning the respect and admiration of those they serve.

PJs are not only elite warriors but also compassionate healers and dedicated humanitarians. They embody the spirit of the Air Force motto, "Aim High... Fly-Fight-Win," and continue to set the standard for excellence in combat search and rescue operations.

Air Force Pararescuemen are the unsung heroes of the War on Terrorism, operating behind enemy lines and in the face of overwhelming odds to rescue fallen comrades and civilians. Their extraordinary skills, unwavering dedication, and selfless sacrifice have earned them a place among the most elite warriors in the world. As the guardians of the sky, PJs stand ready to answer the call to duty, no matter how perilous the mission or how distant the destination.

None Braver: U.S. Air Force Pararescuemen in the War on Terrorism

by Michael Hirsh

4.7 out of 5