What Does It Take To Be A Pararescue

Pararescue, often called "PJs," represent an elite and highly specialized force within the United States Air Force. Their primary mission is to recover and rescue downed airmen or personnel in hostile or austere environments. The rigorous training and demanding operational requirements make becoming a Pararescue member an extraordinary feat.

What does it truly take to become one of these guardians, capable of saving lives in the most perilous situations? This article delves into the selection, training, and mindset required to earn the maroon beret, a symbol of their commitment and sacrifice.

Selection: The First Hurdle

The path to becoming a Pararescue specialist begins with a brutal selection process. Potential candidates must first qualify for Air Force enlistment or commissioning. Then they must pass the Pararescue Physical Ability and Stamina Test (PAST).

The PAST includes events like swimming proficiency tests, pull-ups, sit-ups, push-ups, and a timed 1.5-mile run. This assessment aims to gauge the candidate's baseline physical capabilities and mental fortitude, essential for surviving the intense training ahead.

Only a small percentage of those who attempt the PAST succeed in moving forward. Successful candidates move on to Assessment & Selection, an intense week of physical and mental challenges designed to further weed out those unable to handle the stress of the training pipeline.

The Training Pipeline: A Crucible of Skill

The Pararescue training pipeline is one of the longest and most demanding special operations programs in the US military. It lasts approximately two years and is designed to push candidates to their absolute limits.

It begins with Air Force Basic Military Training followed by the Pararescue Indoctrination Course. Here, candidates are introduced to the fundamentals of Pararescue operations, including water confidence, physical conditioning, and basic medical skills.

Next is the rigorous Pararescue/Combat Rescue Officer Training Course, or "PJ/CRO Course." This intensive program teaches a vast array of skills, including static line and free fall parachuting, combat diving, small unit tactics, and advanced medical techniques.

"It's not just about physical strength," explains Senior Master Sergeant (Ret.) Mark Simpson, a former Pararescue instructor. "It's about mental resilience, the ability to problem-solve under pressure, and a unwavering dedication to helping others."

Following this, candidates attend the Army's Airborne School and the Navy's Underwater Egress Training. They then progress to Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) training, where they learn how to survive in hostile environments and resist enemy capture.

The final stages of training involve advanced medical training, including Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic (EMT-P) certification, and operational readiness exercises. These exercises simulate real-world rescue scenarios, allowing candidates to practice their skills under pressure.

The Mindset of a Pararescue Specialist

Physical prowess and technical skills are crucial, but the mindset of a Pararescue specialist is arguably their most important asset. They must possess unwavering courage, selflessness, and a deep commitment to the creed: "That Others May Live."

They face extremely challenging situations, often operating behind enemy lines, in hazardous weather, or under direct fire. Dr. Emily Carter, a military psychologist who has worked with special operations forces, emphasizes the importance of mental toughness.

"PJs need to be able to maintain focus and composure in the face of extreme stress," says Dr. Carter. "They have to be able to make critical decisions under pressure and trust their training and their team."

The ability to work effectively as part of a team is also essential. Pararescue specialists rely heavily on each other, and their success depends on their ability to communicate effectively and trust each other's judgment.

The Enduring Legacy

The journey to becoming a Pararescue specialist is long, arduous, and demanding. However, the rewards are immense. PJs save lives, provide hope, and embody the highest ideals of service and sacrifice.

Their unwavering commitment to their mission and their fellow service members has earned them a place of honor and respect within the military community and beyond. The maroon beret is a testament to their extraordinary dedication and the incredible lengths they go to ensure "That Others May Live."