Happy Thanksgiving!

To All of Our Military -

I am Thankful and our Country is Thankful for your commitment and patriotism to us. Whether you are home with your loved ones or far off in another country - you are remembered, and thought of.

God Bless our Men and Women who serve the United States of America, and thank you for all you do to allow our country to continue to be FREE!

Save Combat Rescue

The Sikorsky HH-60G - Pave Hawk Helicopters were designated as Air Force Search and Rescue officially in 1991.  The initial design of these HELOs was in 1981 - replacing the HH-3E Jolly Green Giant  with the UH-60A Black Hawk.  The Jolly Green Giant was used during the Vietnam era for Combat Search and Rescue (CSR) - thus the Air Force was allocated a number of the new Black Hawks for modifications for CSR.  Doing what they do best, the Air Force made modifications to the fueling system, and upgraded the machine guns to an M60.  82 of these modified HELOs were given to CSR, Air Force Special Operations, again in 1991.

The Pave Hawks are out of date...  on 22 October 2012 the Air Force put in a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a new Combat Rescue Helicopter (CRH).  The mission of the CRH will remain the same; search and recover personnel in hostile and isolated territories.  Humanitarian missions, civil search and rescue, disaster relief, casualty and medical evacuations and non-combative medical evacuations will also be continued and considered apart of their missions.  The requirements for the CRH are as follows:

combat radius of 416 km
payload of 1,500 lbs
space for up to 4 stretchers

A request of 112 CRHs was requested, and proposals were submitted. Sikorsky is the only bidder to remain, with Lockhead Martin as a subcontractor.  This is a $6.8 billion dollar contract that has been delayed until the first quarter of 2014 FY, which begins October of 2013.  The new CSR would be known as the "CRH-60".

Government furlough, and in response to sequestration budget cuts require the Air Force's FY 2015 budget proposal to cut out the funding for this much needed new helicopter.

Okay... I hear you $6.8 BILLION DOLLARS???!!!!  Are you crazy??!!!  That's a lot of money.  I know that.  But can you really put a price on a life?  I'm sorry I meant to say 100, no 1,000's of lives that are saved during the missions that take place with the CRH.

Most civilians don't understand the impact of what Combat Search and Rescue (CSR) is and does.  In a nut shell, they bring our men and women in combat home - NO MAN LEFT BEHIND.  They risk their own lives with each mission, evacuation, rescue they go on, for the life of another.  Their motto "That Others May Live" is meant and in bedded deep in their souls.  The men who make up CSR are truly the unsung heroes of our military, little to no glory given or asked for.

Scenario for you:  you are driving in a convoy in Afghanistan... your vehicle is hit with a Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG), you have insurgents coming down upon you and your trapped inside your vehicle with multiple injuries.  I hate to tell you this, but your local fire department or ambulance is not on its way.  Their will be no sounds of emergency crew sirens heading your way.  What you will hear is the "whoop whoop" of the Pave Hawk, what you will see is a Pararescue Jumper (PJ) leaning over you, risking his life to extract you from the mangled machine that was once your vehicle.  It's the PJ that will get you to the Pave Hawk and the CSR team that will get you back to base - fighting to keep you alive so you can go home to your loved ones.

Your loved ones - your mother, father, sister, brother, spouse, children, friends...  they are waiting day by day praying for your safe return.  They sit home shivering watching the news knowing that they may get that knock on the door, that call, that what they just viewed may have to do with you. The fear is real, the fear of knowing we may never see you again...

$6.8 billion dollars to bring you home....and all those after you.  Who can put a price on that?

Go to http://savecombatrescue.org/ to show your support.  Click on the tab "Take Action"  - a letter has already been written showing your support, you simply put your name, e-mail address at the bottom and hit "Submit".  Then, SHARE on Facebook, Twitter, Google+  let everyone know.  The more support the better.

For additional support of the Rescue Community visit : http://thatothersmaylive.org/  a non-profit organization helping the families of fallen Rescue Personnel.

Thank you, and God Bless You, our Military, and God Bless America!

What would happen if...

Do you ever think to yourself, what would happen if.... you got lost while you were out hiking in the mountains?   if.... you became injured while exploring the Grand Canyon?   if...  you took your personal sailboat into the ocean, the weather became bad and you could not make it back to shore or if you were apart of a fishing boat that experienced adverse weather what would become of you?  Here's one...  a hurricane came to shore and took out your home, neighborhood, all that you knew leaving you and your neighbors stranded,  or even worse....  a terrorist attack... who would help find your loved ones that have become missing?

All of these events have, do and will occur again.  Our first answers to these type of questions is always, our first responders; local firemen and policemen.  We also think of the Coast Guard or Air National Guard.

Among the brave men and women of the Coast Guard, Air National Guard (ANG), and Air Force (yes Air Force) is an elite group of men that, in a sense, is the first responder.  These men are the Air Force Pararescuemen, also know as PJs.  They are a special operations force that specializes in Search, Rescue and Recovery, in all adverse conditions.

 The ANG has PJ reserve units across the nation for when a tragedy occurs and their skills are needed.  Working directly with the Coast Guard, they are called upon to help in the search and recovery of boats at sea, and in the Great Lakes, or wherever the Coast Guard is in need of help (the movie "The Perfect Storm" shows the PJs at work).

Over the past year, PJs have been called upon multiple times to assist in the search and rescue of lost and injured hikers in places like Washington, Alaska, and Arizona to name a few.  They have the training to climb in harsh conditions, locate, treat the patient, and recover the individual(s) to safety.

During storms like Katrina and Sandy; PJs recovered a countless amount of people from their rooftops, front porches, and small boats while the water levels were uncontrollable.  They either came in by a HELO and hoisted individuals to safety, or used military boats to recover them and bringing them to safety.

9-11....  Yes, Pararescuemen were apart of the team that helped in the rescue efforts at both the Pentagon and World Trade Center.

These men undergo over 2 years of training...  and continue to maintain their training throughout their careers.  They are among an elite group of Special Operations men and work directly with the Naval SEALS.  They put their own lives on the line with every rescue they undertake - they do this with courage and honor.  They do this... that others may live.

How Many PJs Do You See?

Air Force Parasrecuemen from the 82nd Expeditionary Rescue Squadron take cover during an attack simulation of incoming fire from an enemy during an exercise in the Grand Bara Desert, Djibouti earlier this year.  the 82nd ERQS perform regular exercises, supporting the Combined Task Force - Horn of Africa


 

Labor Day

This great country was founded and formed by men who wanted something greater in life for not only themselves but also for their children.  Over the years, wars have been fought in order to maintain our right to pursuit happiness.  And this stands true today.

Labor Day was founded to honor the social and economic dedication and achievements  that American Workers perform throughout the year.  It's a yearly national tribute to the hard working citizens of this great country who continue to give our country strength, prosperity and ensures its well-being. 

The first state bill was introduced to the New York Legislature, however it was actually the state of Oregon that passed the law of a Labor Day recognition on February 21, 1887.  Colorado, New Jersey, New York and Massachusetts also passed the law that same year.  By the end of the decade, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and Nebraska followed suit and by 1894 23 additional states had adopted the holiday to honor the American workers.  Finally, on June 28, 1894 the District of Columbia had passed the law stating that the first Monday of September will be declared a legal holiday known as Labor Day for the District and all of its territories.

 Labor Day has become a day of BBQs, the last of the summer, and a time to enjoy your close friends and family.  Beer, liquor, hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken on the grill... let us not forget the potato or macaroni salad, and all the dips and chips.  Soda galore and juice boxes for the little ones.  But, miles away, this day of recognition won't have the same impact.  Men and Women will still put on their flax vests, their helmets, check their weapons...  they will wake up and put on their ABUs, BDUs...  blouse their pants, tie their boots, and the sounds of their dog tags jingling while they place them under their T-shirts can be heard if you listen.  F-16's, A-10s, Pave Hawks, take the sky - the sounds of American Freedom.  Let us not forget about them...  Let us not forget why we can continue to have holidays such as these...  Let us not forget...

God Bless America, all its Military Members and their families, and God Bless each of you.  Have a safe and enjoyable Holiday!

TSgt Mark A. Smith - Arlington National Cemetery Sept 5th

TSgt Mark A. Smith, 33rd RQS Flight Engineer who died when the HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopter in which he was flying went down during a training mission, will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery on September 5, 2013 at 11:00 Easter Daylight Time.  Lt Col Pedro Ortiz, 33rd Rescue Squadron commander requests that friends of Rescue please join them for this solemn remembrance.

Information will be passed on as it is received....

12,000 Recoveries within CENTCOM since 9/11

"According to a DoD study, Air Force rescue forces have recovered more than half of all joint personnel recovery missions in the CENTCOM area of operations with 2 percent of the deployed rotary-wing aircraft.  According to the Air Force, this achievement has resulted in over 12,000 recoveries in CENTCOM since Sept. 11, 2001." - Mick Harper

Simply amazing work that our Rescue Heroes do every day.  That's 12,000 people who have gotten to go home to their loved ones, 12,000 families who got to hold their loved one again, 12,000 fathers/mothers/brothers/sisters/sons/daughters that were brought home.  12,000 plus lives effected because of your selfless acts.

Thank you for all you do!

And thank you "That Others May Live Foundation" for passing on this information!

AF Special Tactics PJs Rescue Alabama Teen

On August 8th, SSgt Matthew Macella and SSgt Chris Johnston, both special tactics pararescuemen instructors with the 24th Special Operations Wing, Hurlbert Field FL, were at a park, scouting the area for training purposes in the Cherokee Rock mountain range, in Sand Rock, Alabama.

"I heard a loud sliding noise, a scream and a thud about 100 meters away," stated Macella.

An 18 year old Alabama teenager had been rock climbing with his girlfriend when he slid 30 feet down a steep rock face into a crevice.

Natural instincts stepped in as Macella and Johnston quickly began to call out to the teen to try and identify his location.  They found him, still dangling and trapped approximately 8 feet above the ground.

Macella carefully navigated the climb, going through small crevices to reach the teen.  Once upon him, his medical condition was assessed and determined he was stable to move; Macella and Johnston extracted him through a 2 x 2 hole at the bottom of the crevice.  From there, they guided the teen up a 60 feet mountain face where their military vehicle awaited them and further medical treatment was given to his multiple lacerations and abrasions.  The teens girlfriend took him to the local emergency room for further evaluations.

Without the quick thinking and training that Macella and Johnston have, this teen could have been trapped for an extended period of time, thus making his injuries more severe.

AF Special Tactics Pararescuemen are mostly known for what they do within combat environments.  However, domestic situations arise on a daily basis, and they are called upon.  Their training allows them to get into restricted environments, land or sea, to extract, treat, stabilize and evacuate injured personnel, foreign or domestic.

For more information or if you are interested in what it takes to be a PJ visit:

http://www.afsoc.af.mil/specialtactics/pjtraining.asp

TSgt Daniel Zerbe

On August 6, 2011, TSgt Daniel Zerbe, a USAF PJ, lost his life along with 30 other US military heroes, 7 Afghan Commandos and 1 civilian interpreter when their Chinook was shot down in the Tangi Valley, Wardak Province, Afghanistan.

TSgt Daniel Zerbe, whose hometown was Red Lion, PA, was born in 1983.  He graduated from the local high school, that upon his death, held a memorial service for him with over a 1000 people.  A town that honored him and his family for the sacrifices that he made for our country.

"9 Line" is dedicated to TSgt Daniel Zerbe, along with our other fallen Combat Rescue Heroes.  May you always be remembered, and your sacrifices not forgotten.

TSgt Mark A. Smith

It has been confirmed that during a training mission in the Central Training Area, Okinawa Japan, that Technical Sergeant Mark A. Smith of the 33 Rescue Squadron was killed.  The HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopter that had gone down performing a training mission.  Cause of the fatal accident is still unknown and under investigation.  TSgt Mark Smith was the Rescue Engineer for the HELO

TSgt Smith joined the USAF immediately after his high school graduation in July of 2000 and served his 13 years proudly and honorably.  In 2011 he  arrived in Kadena and had served 2 tours in Afghanistan with the 33 RQS and performed a multitude of missions saving and aiding the lives of our military on the ground.  One such mission involving the rescue of a commando earning him the AF Commendation Medal.

TSgt Smith is survived by his wife Jessica, and by two daughters.

God Bless you and thank you for your sacrifice and service!

For more information visit http://www.kadena.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123359330

If you would like to make a donation to the Smith family and help them during this tragic time visit:

www.thatothersmaylive.org



That Others May Live is a foundation in support of the AF Rescue community.

As I receive information I will be sure to post.

That Others May Live

"That Others May Live"  - four simple words, but these four words are the last four words of the Pararescuemen Creed.  A creed that is taken to heart, and and is truly lived by. 

The Pararescuemen live and die by their creed, by the last four words "That others may live".  Over the course of the past several years the PJ Brotherhood have lost several members of their family.  Tragically their loved ones had to endure the heartbreaking moments of a military funeral, a flag draped coffin, that flag folded and handed to the next of kin, ending with the sounds of TAPS being played.  In a career field of less than 400 personnel worldwide, each member lost is tragic.

In support of the families, the "That Others May Live Foundation" was organized.  Established in 2002, "That Others May Live", or also known as TOML, is a non-profit 501 (c)3 charitable organization.  Providing support, scholarships and overall assistance to the families of the United States Air Force Rescue Heroes who lose their lives or are critically injured during both real world and training missions.

TOML is continually hosting fundraisers across the country.  You may also purchase items with their logo, proceeds going to TOML, of course.  If you visit their website at: www.thatothersmaylive.org  you can find more information and make online donations to this great cause!

PJ Creed

Pararescueman Creed

"It is my duty as a Pararescueman to save life

and to aid the injured.

I will be prepared at all times to perform my

assigned duties quickly and efficiently,

placing these duties before

personal desires and comforts.

These things I do,

that others may live."

The most selfless three lines spoken...









Charlie the PJ

The legend goes...

In 1964 on a small island in Fiji, Tony "don't hate me because I'm beautiful" Willis was drawn to a very odd object one day.  This object was merely 18 in height, and was a carved wooden South Sea demi god.  This "Demi God" did not fit any real expectations of what a "Demi God" should look like, noooo.  This particular one has unbelievable proportions, and well, is ugly.  Tony fell in love with him.

Once back at Eglin AFB FL, "Charlie" as the Demi God was soon christened, and became more popular then Tony himself.  "Charlie" was administered a qualification ride, and received his maroon beret, a parachute, diving mask, and fins.

Charlie became very famous, very quickly and was requested at many ceremonies.  That's when it all began.

Charlie the PJs first abduction started later that year by an "assailant" of the Pararescue brotherhood.  Charlie was whisked away and taken to 55th AARS,

Many abductions soon followed.  Charlie has been across continents by land, by sea, and by air.  He has jumped into the deserts of the Middle East and climbed the ice bergs of Alaska.  He basks in the sun on tropical islands.  Charlie has truly lived an exceptional life as a PJ.

Over the years, rules have been made and are followed strictly by the PJ Brotherhood.  They are as follows:

1. Charlie will be absconded only by fully and currently qualified or retired PARARESCUEMEN.
2. Any effort by non-PARARESCUE personnel to abscond Charlie will be met with the full, unified force of the career field.
3. Charlie will physically occupy and dominate a place of honor at all PARARESCUE functions in which his presence is expected.
4. Efforts to abscond Charlie will not be instituted until the final hours of the function of which he is in attendance.
5. Only covert measures reflecting great pride upon the PARARESCUE career field will be employed during Charlie's acquisition.
6. Physical violence will not be employed except during circumstances in Rule 2 above.
7. Area destruction during any acquisition effort will be kept to a minimum except during circumstances reflected in Rule 2 above.
8. Charlie will not be altered or changed in any manner unless authorized by the consensus of the PARARESCUE Association officiated by the President of the Association.
9. His location need not be made public; however, he will be prominently displayed at all times during his tenure at his hosting PARARESCUE team's section.
10. Charlie will be transferred from point-to-point only through the most secure means, inclusive of U.S. Postal System, UPS, Federal Express, etc.
11. If Charlie is absconded by a recognized PARARESCUE retiree, that individual will not retain custody of him for more than one seven- day period before surrendering him to the operational PARARESCUE team of his choice.

-- OR --

The curse of a thousand PJs will be on you
if you violate these written rules!

For more information about Charlie the PJ visit:

http://www.pararescue.com/history.aspx?id=451

Domestic Rescues

Combat Rescue - Pararescue Jumper - PJ - Special Operations...  when people mention or talk about what these individuals do they automatically think about dropping into a war zone and pulling out a downed pilot, a shot soldier or an injured Marine who stepped on an IED.  Very true, they do all of that, and more.  However, what many don't realize is what they actually do when they are not in the war zone.  Okay yes, they train, and train, and train some more.  Not a day goes by that they are not working on bettering themselves, physically or mentally, in order to do their jobs better.  But wait there is more....

June 2013 in  Mt Hood, Oregon, 4 PJs and a CRO (Combat Rescue Officer) were called up from the 304th Rescue Squadron to participate in an on-going search and rescue mission of a lost hiker.  The Hiker was an experienced hiker from Salem, OR had gone missing. Earlier in March they responded to a missing female hiker and in 2012 the 304th were called upon and also, again assisted in the search and rescue of a missing hiker.  The 304th flew over 100 missions during the eruption of Mt. St. Helens in 1980 in hopes to find survivors and rescue them.

http://www.afrc.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=12335367

374th Expeditionary Rescue Group PJs airlifted nearly 3000 people from the New Orleans area during Hurricane Katrina.  Hours after the storm slammed the area the pararescuemen were called upon and worked the clock 24 hrs a day pulling hundreds of people to safety daily and taking them to nearby hospitals.

212th Rescue Squadron of Alaska perform hundreds of search and rescue missions every year, saving lives of those there in Alaska.  They work diligently with the 176th Wing and their sister units; the Alaskan State Troopers, Coast Guard, and Civil Air Patrol.  The extreme climate of this area requires extreme training.

http://www.176wg.ang.af.mil/units/176og/212rqs.asp

The domestic, civilian or home missions, how ever one may call it are happening every day.  I could place link upon link, showing story upon story of the hundreds of lives that these men rescue and save every year.  One live saved effects many.  Think of the mother, father, brother, sister, wife, husband, children awaiting for their loved one to come home.  They went for a hike, nothing they don't do on a regular basis, but this time they didn't come home.  This time they didn't hear from them, this team, this one time they may never see their loved one again.  The worry, the fear, and then... the overwhelming gratitude that is felt when they receive that call, that notification or overhear it over the radio.  "we have him"  "he has been spotted"  "he is alive" "we are bringing him in"

Thank you for all you do - "that others may live"

Preparing to be a PJ?

So you have decided that you want to be a Pararescue Jumper aka PJ.  What is the best means of preparing to do so?  There are many different avenues one can take when they first start out on this journey.  Of course, if you go to the Air Force website and check it out you will see what you need to do to pass the PAST(Physical Ability Stamina Test) test:  http://www.afsoc.af.mil/specialtactics/pastcriteria.asp  this is a very good start.  If you are able to complete these items in the indicated times you are heading in the right direction.

PAST test must be completed in a 3 hour time frame.  It also must be conducted in the order in which the physical abilities are listed:

    - 2 x 25 underwater swim
    - 500 meter surface swim
    - 1.5 mile run
    - Calisthenics
    - Pull ups
    - Sit ups
    - Push ups
   
Please note that each item is timed and has a minimum amount that is required.  The above site goes into the details on this.

Talk with an AF Recruiter!!!  Your recruiter can be your best friend; if he believes that you have the capability to pursue this career he will do what he can to see you succeed!  Your recruiter can put you in touch with the right people who have been there, and done that.  He/she will be able to work with you in your training, and help you have a better understanding of what this career field entitles.  Your Recruiter is the pathway to getting you there.  If your local Recruiter is not familiar with the field, and he/she should be, ask him/her to recommend another one who can help you.

As I just stated, your Recruiter may be able to put you in contact with someone who is or was a PJ.  This is your best source of information.  If you are able to meet with one, they will talk your ear off (in a good way) about what you need to do to both mentally and physically prepare for INDOC.  When I had asked a dear PJ friend of mine on what he would have done if he didn't make it to graduation, his reply was,

 "that was going to happen.  I had plan "A", to be a PJ - there was no plan "B".  Those who go into INDOC and then into the Pipeline with a plan "B" won't graduate."

Another bit of advice I can give you, if you are still in High School, maybe a sophomore, look into joining the Civil Air Patrol (CAP).  The Civil Air Patrol is an Annexation of the Air Force, one can compare it to ROTC but they work more directly with the Air Force.  Once you have been apart of CAP and you have met certain criteria you are eligible to participate in the National Cadet Special Activities.  One such activity is called the Pararescue Jumper Orientation Course (PJOC)

http://ncsas.com/index.cfm/pararescue_orientation_course?show=career_fair&careerFairID=3

This is a one week course that is held in Albuquerque NM at Kirtland AFB.  The instructors are actual PJs, and the Cadets are trained on survival, rock climbing, land navigation along with many other techniques that are associated with the career field.  They are also physically challenged, having to pass their own PAST test prior to acceptance into the field, and two more times while there.

Study, research, work out, swim, use all your resources that are available to you if this is something that you are interested in doing.  It's the hardest thing you will ever do, but if you do it, and you succeed, you will be one of the elite to be able wear the maroon beret

"That others may live"

Women in Combat Special Operations in 2016

The Air Force released yesterday, 19 June 2013, it's intentions to fully integrate women into the currently 7 closed Air Force career fields.  These career fields hold a total of 4,700 positions out of the over 500,000 total current.  Thus, 99 percent of the AFSCs in the Air Force are open to women in the Air Force, allowing them to do virtually whatever they would want in the Air Force, to include being a combat pilot.

Okay, so what are the 7 current male only career fields you ask?  Well, for starters they are all special operations.  We are looking at: Combat Rescue Officer (CROs), Special Tactics Officer, Special Operations Weather Officer, Enlisted Combat Controller, Enlisted Tactical Air Command and Control Party, Enlisted Pararescue (PJ), and Enlisted Special Operations Weather. 

(For more information on these career fields visit:  http://www.airforce.com/careers/#interest:special-operations )

I personally am somewhat baffled by this decision.  I can honestly state that Yes, I do know individuals that are CROs, PJs, Combat Controllers, and Special Ops Weather.  One Combat Controller, stated "I trained with some of the PJs...there is no way I could do what they do." The physical and mental training that these MEN go through is to the utmost extreme, preparing them for every worst possible situation that can be imagined and then some.  There is a reason that these jobs have a drop out rate of 90%.  They are HARD!  Young men train specifically for months, sometimes years, to enter into these jobs, and once they are in they realize that they just don't have what it takes, and sadly, at one point they find themselves hanging there heads in defeat, and calling it quits.

I am a woman.  I consider myself to be in fairly decent shape - I broke my back, pelvis and screwed up one of my knees while on active duty - I know my limitations.  I know women who run marathons all over the world, who compete and participate in triathlons, iron mans, mud runners, etc.  I personally have undertaken the "Insanity" workout.  However, I can honestly say, without a doubt, that not one woman I know would be able to handle the rigorous training that these men undergo to become apart of the AF Elite Special Operations Units.  I'm not saying that there isn't one woman who can do it, I'm simply saying that if, on average only 10 men out of 100 will successfully complete this training, the odds that a woman will satisfy all requirements is slim to none.  If you think you can do it, go for it, represent us, but don't be crying and dishonoring us and complaining that the physical and mental training is to hard and should be altered because you're a woman.  There is a reason why the AF hasn't altered the training so the drop out rate is lower, they want the best of the best. 

I only hope that the AF doesn't change the PAST test, and the additional requirements once women enter the program.  Currently the AF has different physical requirements, adjusted to meet the physical attributes to women, in order for them to pass their physical fitness tests.  I do not believe this should be applicable if women want to be apart of one of these elite Spec Ops forces. 

This is all my personal opinions, I am for equal rights, women's rights, etc.  But sometimes, yes, I set women's lib back a few years.  Again what I have written here are MY VIEWS, and not those of the AF, DoD, or other military affiliates.

Please leave me your comments and thoughts - I would love to hear them!

Current PAST requirements for AF Pararescue :  http://www.military.com/military-fitness/air-force-special-operations/air-force-para-rescue

Read more about the AFs Plan at : www.af.mil/news/story_print.asp?is=123353162

PJ INDOC - Do you have what it takes

You have watched the videos, you have seen the documentaries, heard and read stories - you have been hooked into the Pararescue career field, now it's time to see if you have what it takes...

Deep breath, you walk in and speak with the Air Force Recruiter telling him you want to be a PJ, after he finishes laughing he informs you about the PAST test (Physical Ability and Stamina Test), you look it over:

- 2 x 25 m sub surface swim no time limit
- 500 m swim 10:07 or less
- 30 min rest
- 1.5 mile run 9:47 or less
- 10 min res
- 10 pull ups min
- 2 min rest
- 58 sit ups min
- 2 min rest
- 54 push ups min

http://www.military.com/military-fitness/air-force-special-operations/air-force-para-rescue

Okay not a problem - you pass the PAST and you head out to BMT, and finish it.  Now the truth begins - how much do you want it, how much can you endure, how much can you physically and mentally take?  You begin the USAF Pararescue Indoctrination Course; INDOC for short.  A brutal 10 week course that is considered to be one of the hardest military training courses out there.

Class drop out rates are often 80% some are 90%.  There has been graduating classes of 1 and there has also been a class of 0.  You are now a statistic, but the question is what side will you be apart of - the few the graduate or the many that drop out.

0415 your up, scrambling with the others.  Putting on PT gear, grabbing your rucksack full of gear and food for the day, throw it on your back and you muster out to formation.  It has begun.  Standing upon a large concrete pad you do your best to look around without getting yelled out - in front of the large warehouse like building there are motivational tools that you will become very familiar with one a very large, who knows how heavy log, and a 40 foot iron rail that upon looking at it you wonder "what is that for".  The large green "Jolly Roger" footprints are painted upon the pad, and you get to see them very clearly with every push up and "hooyah" you do.  Ahh, that's done, lets move on...

0600 your at the pool.  I'm sorry the "training tank" as most like to refer to it.  Over the course of the 10 weeks you experience some of the most rigid water training to include the dreaded water confidence test; this video can show and explain a little more on the intensity of this:

You train and train and train.  Your body aches, your mind is exhausted.  You watch as one by one your fellow trainees walk away from an event to an airhorn sitting off to the side, raise it, blow it and announce that they are out.  Defeated they walk away.  You swear you wont do it, you swear you won't ever raise that horn.

Hell Night - you are up at 0430 - train all day, in bed by 2100 hrs, getting comfy cozy drifting off to your world without any Cadres.

2130 Siren Screams - you jump out of your skin, heart pounding as a Cadre comes into the dorm pissed as all mighty hell yelling though a bullhorn, "Get up! Get up!  Let's move it! 2 minutes get to the HELOs!!"

You know your not running to the HELO but it's the beginnning of Hell Night, politically correct called "extended day training".  No rest for anyone.  19 hours of instructors pushing their teams to all limits both mentally and physically.

Hell Night, one of the last steps to the PipeLine.

It's designed to introduce students to the rigorous operations of what life is like as a PJ.  It promotes team building, ensuring you are there for your teammate, you can't pass and leave him behind.  Being sleep deprived is critical in this process; helps an individual handle and cope with stress under harsh conditions - again something that is real world with the PJs.

"It's the hardest and most stressful experience they will have during the course", says SSgt Tims Hanks, a PJ instructor.

Instructors are wanting the Trainees to feel the difficulty, make mistakes and work through processes that would normally take them seconds to figure out, but with lack of sleep longer and second guess themselves.  Why?  When they notice an individual falling to the sleep deprivation it builds team work, the individuals quickly learn they need each other to pass.  Whether it's to drag a body dummy up a hill or to complete a run, they learn to do it as a team, together.  That's what it takes to get through INDOC and ultimately the PIPELINE - realizing that you can't do it by yourself.

For those who complete the 10 week course of INDOC, welcome to the PIPELINE - two years worth of some of the best, elite, hardest training and schooling one could go through.

Hoo Yah!

#Discovery Channel has Surviving the Cut on Hell Night - here are the full clips

http://dsc.discovery.com/tv-shows/surviving-the-cut

Pedro 66

On June 9, 2011 a Pave Hawk - HH60G going by the call sign "Pedro 66" was shot down in Afghanistan.  This was a USAF rescue helicopter.  The last words you hear from "Pedro" are, "I'm hit.  We're going in."  The other HELO watches as they crash , but all emotions need to be buried.  All the training that you prepare for as a Rescue Team is no longer for an anonymous individual, it's for your brother in arms, your teammates, your family - it's now a personal mission.

Pedro 66 lost 5 of it's Team Members; Capt David Wisniewski and 1Lt Joel Gentz - (CRO - Combat Rescue Officer) of the 58th Rescue Squadron (RQS), SSgt David Smith of the 66th RQS, and TSgt Michael Flores and SrA Benjamin White - both PJs of the 48th RQS.  This was the first time the Rescue community had lost a CRO - Lt Gentz in a combat mission.

Pedro 66 was conducting a casualty evacuation operation in southeastern Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom - four of the members died in the crash, Capt Wisniewski died of from injuries he received in the accident almost a month later.

We remember Pedro 66 regularly - it was a devastating loss, to say the least, to the PJ and Rescue community.  Their sacrifice is a true inspiration, they are true heroes and died living to their creed: "these things we do that others may live". 

God Bless all the members that were lost that day, you will never be forgotten.

If you would like to help out the Rescue Community please donate to:

www.thatothersmaylive.org  

Courage

"Courage is the first of human qualities because it is the quality that guarantees the others"  - Aristotle

What depicts Special Operations "Personnel" above all others - Courage.  Some may say it's strength, both physical and mental.  But above all, it's the courage that comes from down within your soul that forces you to go on one more day during training, to look fear, pain, I'm sorry agony, and everything to continue on.  To know that there is no other plan, no other option but to complete the training that they started.  There is no amount of yelling or screaming in their face that can stop them, but yet it motivates them to continue - one more moment, one more hour, one more day, one more phase - sleep and food are luxuries.  All the sweat, tears, pulled muscles, torn ligaments, twisted ankles, etc. to graduate, to be apart of an elite class of Special Operations Warriors, Heroes.

"Courage is fear holding on a minute longer"  George Patton

Special Tactics

Most people know about the Special Operations units of the US Army, US Navy and the US Marines.  They are easy, Delta Force, Rangers SEALS, etc.  Not many people know about the US Air Force's Special Operations Special Tactics Pararescue - PJs.  There are two elements of the Pararescue career field,  rescue and special tactics.

"Rescue" is the path that the movie 9 Line covers.  It depicts what the PJs accomplish on a day to day basis in both the civilian stateside sector and also within the war zone, Afghanistan.  The National Geographic Channel "Nat Geo" aired a fabulous mini-series documentary this past winter depicting the "rescue" side, entitled "Inside Combat Rescue".  It can be watched on YouTube at: (note: each episode has it's own url):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OH5ET974CCc

The other part of Pararescue is the unseen Special Tactics.  Shhhhhhhh   The Special Tactics side of Pararescue is not spoken of very much, they are the unseen men embedded with the Navy SEALS, Delta Force and the Army Rangers.  They provide the medical assistance that these teams require in certain missions that they accomplish.  Pararescuemen are the only Medical Personnel that are fully trained in all aspects of the Special Operations field and Combat.  They train directly with the SEALS, Delta Force and the Rangers.  Practically every high profile mission that has been accomplished, and then fed to the media had a PJ with them.  Such missions include the rescue of Jessica Lynch, the 1st individual she saw was a PJ, the mission in Somalia known to the public as "Black Hawk Down" it was a PJ that was the medic working on the wounded (the operation on the leg, who can forget?!), and also, among SEAL Team 6...and when they were shot down, yes we lost a PJ.   They are never spoken of, and within the movies they are never displayed and are usually just shown as an Army Medic.  They ask for no glory, no fame, they don't boast of what they do.  None of that matters to the PJs, they do it "That Others May Live"

9 Line Medevac

I have people ask me on a regularly about the title of the film: "9 Line".  What does it mean?  I have had both Active Duty and Veterans from all branches ask.  It's not a common knowledge term, but for those who do know what it means, they understand that it means, simply - "rescue". 

The Special Tactics and Special Operations units across the globe clearly understand the importance of receiving a 9 Line request.  It means we have men down, military or civilian, but they are down and in need of help and rescue.  The request is going to inform of a medical evaluation and patient pick up site, necessary equipment and or materials that may be needed for extraction.  Medical personnel from the different branches utilize this information and determine how and who will be sent in.  The Air Force's Special Operations Pararescue Search and Rescue units have quickly become the most common group of men (no there are no women in this career field) to perform such extractions.  The Pararescuers, or more commonly known as PJs (pararescue jumper) are highly trained in combat rescue and live by there motto "that others may live". 

A 9 Line is requested, then received by the what is known as a "TOC" - tactical operations center, the information is then passed onto the "CRO" - combat rescue officer (an officer who is a PJ), who discusses it with his team that will be sent in - the time starts to tick...

9 Line request proceeds as such:

Line 1:  Location
Line 2: Call Sign/Frequency
Line 3:  # of Patients by Precedence
            A- Urgent (w/ in 2 hrs)
            B-Urgent Surgery (w/ in 2 hrs)
            C - Priority (w/ in 4 hrs)
            D - Routine (w/ in 24 hrs)
Line 4:  Special Equipment
            A - None
            B - Hoist
            C - Extraction Equipment (i.e. jaws of life, etc)
            D - Ventilator
Line 5:  # of Patients by Type
            L + #  = Litter
            A + # = Ambulatory
Line 6:  Wartime (Security of PZ)
            N - No enemies
            P - Possible Enemy
            E - Enemy in Area, Proceed with Caution
            X - Enemy in Area, Armed Escort Required
Line 6:  Peacetime (if an extraction is needed stateside or outside of a warzone for example Hurricane Katrina - PJs were called in and this was used compared to the above information)
            Number and Type of Wounded
Line 7:  Method of Marking PZ
            A - Panels (color)
            B - Pyrotechnic Signal
            C - Smoke Signal
            D - None
            E - Other
Line 8:  Patient Nationality and Status
            A - US Military
            B - US Civilian
            C - Non-US Military
            D - Non-US Civilian
            E - EPW
Line 9:  Wartime (NBC Contamination)
            N - Nuclear
            B - Biological
            C - Chemical
             When there is no contamination, a description of the scene, location, will be used, i.e mountain terrain, low trees, etc

Overall, yeah, okay, somewhat simple, to hear one come through or actually read one, is totally different.  In this film, it's all about the 9 Line's that come through during "Chase's" deployment in Afghanistan.  Here is one such 9 Line that is sent in:  (OS means Off Stage)

GONZO - O.S.
Scepter 2-3, this is Gonzo 9, over.
COMPTROLLER 2
Gonzo 9, go for Scepter 2-3 over.
GONZO - O.S.
Scepter 2-3, 9 Line request, over.
COMPTROLLER 2
Gonzo 9, send it, over.
GONZO - O.S.
Line 1: 4-1 Sierra Mike Romeo
3136680729, break.
GONZO - O.S. (CONT'D)
Line 2: Papa Echo, Gonzo 9, break.
GONZO - O.S. (CONT'D)
Line 3: 6 Alpha, 5 Bravo, 8
Charlie, 5 Delta, 4 Echo, break.
80.
GONZO - O.S. (CONT'D)
Line 4: Delta, break.
GONZO - O.S. (CONT'D)
Line 5: 19 Alpha, 9 Bravo, break.
GONZO - O.S. (CONT'D)
Line 6: Papa, break.
GONZO - O.S. (CONT'D)
Line 7: Charlie, break.
GONZO - O.S. (CONT'D)
Line 8: 4 Alpha, 5 Charlie, 19
Delta, break.
GONZO - O.S. (CONT'D)
Line 9: flat and open with
buildings, 250 meters to the
northwest, break.
GONZO - O.S. (CONT'D)
How copy, over.
COMPTROLLER 2
That’s a solid copy Gonzo 9,
standby for inbound Casevac, over.
GONZO - O.S.
Roger that Scepter 2-3, standing
by.

Looks a little different than the original.  Stay tuned for more...

Boston Marathon Tragedy

In the city known as the Cradle of Liberty two bombs exploded near the finish line of the historic Boston Marathon.  Three people were killed, to include an 8 year old boy, and injuring at least 140 more people.

Windows were shattered as the explosions, nearly simultaneous,went off; sending runners and spectators fleeing through a chaos full of smoke, and debris.  Emergency workers and the police quickly ran to the aid of the those lying on the blood covered cement.

  

"This is something I've never seen in my 25 years here...this amount of carnage in the civilian population.  This is what we expect from war," stated Dr Alasdair Conn, chief of emergency services at Mass General.

Fears of this being a terrorist attack ran rapid through the great city of Boston, and rippled through the country.  There are reports that stated 5 additional bombs were found prior to exploding.  The characteristics of the way the bombing occurred, a smaller one first sending people back from the explosion followed by a larger one where people had moved to, indicates it was professionally done.  However, as of now, there is still no claim from any groups for the bombing.  There are still no suspects or motives reported by the authorities.  Last night, a "person of interest" was being watched at a local hospital.

Whatever the motive, or whomever did this should know this.... These acts of terrorism on the United States does not pull our country apart, but does the opposite.  We become stronger, we unite, our patriotism will wave strong and will rock those who did this.  "United we Stand".

My prayers go out to all of those who were injured or killed, and to their families.  Now that America stands behind you, and our eyes are focused on the tragedy there in Boston.

If you feel compelled to help, contact the American Red Cross - the hospitals will be low on blood, and a simple blood donation can save a life.

www.redcross.org

God Bless America!!!!

A1C William H. Pitsenbarger

Airman First Class William H. Pitsenbarger, of Piqua, Ohio, was apart of the USAF Det 6, 38th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery unit in Bien Hoa Air Base, Republic of Vietnam, assigned with them as a Pararescue Crew Member.

On April 11, 1966 (Yes I'm a day late...) his rescue team responded to an evac approximately 35 miles east of Saigon.  The infantry unit was under fire and their were casualties that needed to be evacuated out.  A1C Pitsenbarger volunteered to take down a hoist through the jungle, over a hundred feet to the ground.   Once on the ground his rescue efforts started immediately.  He professionally cared for and evacuated nine casualties, ensuring them to safety.

During one of the pick-ups, one of the rescue helicopters had taken on some enemy fire and was forced to an emergency landing....Instead of leaving, A1C Pitsenberger courageously elected to stay on the ground and continue providing medical treatment to the wounded.

Quickly the area was hit hard with enemy fire and mortars.  After several evacuation attempts the area was attacked by large Viet Cong forces, thus causing any additional attempts of evacuation to be held off.  A1C Pitsenberger took up arms and helped in the fight alongside the infantry men he was there to rescue.  Continually, he pulled the wounded out of further harms way and treated them, thus putting himself in the line of fire, becoming wounded three times himself, but never stopped caring for the others.  As the line was breached, nearly 80 percent of the American soldiers had become casualties and A1C Pittsenberger finally succumbed to fatal wounds.

On December 17, 2000, A1C William H. Pittsenberger received the Medal of Honor Posthumously, and was received by his father by the Secretary of State.

www.pararescue.com/history.aspx?id=452

Help Raise Money for Chief McCaskill's Family

There are two great ways we can show our love and gratitude toward Chief McCaskill's family.  Below you will find two groups that are currently raising money for his family, please check them out, and help honor our lost "Guardian Angel".  Thank you!

www.thatothersmaylive.org

https://www.facebook.com/GreenFeetBrewing?fref=ts

During Angel Thunder, now through 20 April, Green Feet Brewing is donating all profits from sales of their sand T-shirts to a fund for CMSgt Nick McCaskill's family.
Shirts are $20, and shipping is $3.50 if you are not in the Tucson area. Sizes currently on hand M / L/ XL, backorders will be available as long as the order is placed by the 20th. (Women's tan fitted T's will not be available.
For further ordering information message Green Feet Brewing on Facebook and use the subject "XX Sand" for priority shipping.

CMSgt McCaskill - RIP

CMSgt Nick McCaskill - Watching diligently over those he loves, always and forever!  Rest in Peace Chief you will be deeply missed!

Rest In Peace...

Sadnees sweeps across the Pararescue community - this past weekend in Afghanistan, as a result of a suicide bomber, USAF CMSgt Nick McCaskill, Pararescueman, was killed.  He is survivied by his wife and two young children. 

May you rest in Peace Chief!  Your sacrifices throughout your career as a Pararescueman will not be forgotten, but will live on in the lives that you have rescued and those around them.  A true hero, with no cape or emblem upon his chest.  Chief McCaskill lived by his PJ creed... and died by it. 

"9 Line" is dedicated to our fallen "Guardian Angels" - one more name, to be added...  show us your support so we can prove to the non-beievers how important this film truly is.

"That Others May Live"

If you would like to donate or help Chief McCaskill's family please visit the "That Others May Live" website at:

www.Thatothersmaylive.org

That Others May Live

The Pararescuemen, PJ, creed reads:

"It is my duty as a Pararescueman to save lives and aid the injured.  I will be prepared at all times to perform my assigned duties quickly and efficiently, placing these duties before personal desires and comforts.  These things I do, that others may live."

This was written by the first commander of the Air Rescue Service, Lt Col Richard T. Kight.

Those few who have survived INDOC and traveled through the "Pipeline" to graduate as one of the elite to darn the beret, recite this code and live by it and also, die by it.  It is what they do.  They are not merely words that are spoken, they are what drives these young heroes to go into the combat zone and rescue whomever it may be who needs to be saved.

"That Others May Live"

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Air_Force_Pararescue

Jolly Green Giant...

The Jolly Green Giant?  No, it's not just on a can of vegetables, it's also the nickname of the Sikorsky MH-53 used during the #VietnamWar.  During this time the PJs utilized the MH-53 in their search and rescue missions.  It was the inspiration behind the PJs green foot print tattoo..

The story behind the tattoo is as follows:

And this is the abridged version, btw....  TSgt Wayne Fisk and SSgt Chuck Morrow, both PJs, were two friends who "found each other" in the "Jolly/Dusty Hootch Bar".  They shared a drink or two, or three, or maybe even four before heading down into the 'ville.  Once there, they enjoyed each others company; swapping rescue stories and retelling of stories, and more stories, and more retelling the stories as more of their sobriety decreased.  Then it hit them, BAM!  What would be more fitting then a tattoo of Combat Rescues prestigious symbol - the green footprints?!  But the question remained - where or where to place such an important tattoo?

Wayne went first - he took the prone position and the birth of the legendary tattoo began.  Soon after, once word was out all the PJs wanted one.  As generations have passed, it has become an icon among them - upon Pararescue graduation it's the mooning, and the honor and glory to call yourself one of the elite, the few the proud to forever have the footprints upon your arse..

For the full story visit: 

http://www.pararescue.com/history.aspx

I have be  gone for awhile - terribly sorry!  I wanted to share something that was recently told to me by an individual when he found out that I am associated with the Air Force Pararescue community:

"What I remember? I remember darkness, debris falling down upon my face, pressure in my chest so that I couldn't breathe, pain everywhere but yet, if this makes sense, numb. I felt as if I couldn't move any part of my body, my mind said to open my eyes but my eyes wouldn't listen and remained closed. My mind said to move my arms, yet my arms said no. My mind said to move my legs and they too refused. Excruciating pain, I remember the pain.... When I forced my mouth open to scream, I don't know if I did or not, but I remember the feel of fresh air going into my chest. Sounds? Yeah, sounds, footsteps, yelling, gunshots, yeah lots of sounds. I felt something touch my hand, and heard voices - God has come for me I thought, especially when i was lifted and carried away, the pain left sometime after that. I remember waking up in a hospital bed... found out that it wasn't God who removed me from my hell, but it was something very close. It was the Air Force guys, the PJs, I understand then why they are called the Guardian Angels..."

For those of you who don't know, the Air Force Pararescuers are called "The Guardian Angels", for reasons that I shouldn't have to explain.  Simply put, they, Pararescuemen (PJs) save lives of both military and civilian alike in combat zones as well as non combative areas.  

The Air Force Pararescueman is the only Department of Defense Special Operations elite that is specifically trained in both conventional and nonconventional rescue situations, making them the ideal group of individuals to perform combat search and rescue missions and personnel recovery.

For more information visit:

http://www.pararescue.com/default.aspx

Inside Combat Rescue - Part 2

If you weren't able to watch +National Geographic #InsideCombatRescue Part 2 last week here is a link for you to view it.

Remember these are actual PJs, #Pararescuers,  from #MoodyAFB GA performing actual #CombatRescue in +Afghanistan some scenes may be not suited for the weak at heart....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vae1Cr8rC_M

SrA Jason Cunningham

On March 4, 2002, SrA (Senior Airman) Jason Cunningham was killed in action during Operation Anaconda in Afghanistan.

Living by his motto, surrounded by death, SrA Cunningham chose to save the lives of others than care for his own wounds.

An MH47E- Chinook Helicopte, Razor 3, was on approach to the Takhur Ghar Mountain with a Naval SEAL team on board.  They were to be dropped onto the mountain to observe and take in intel on an al-Qaida.  The Chinook met up with a fusillade of enemy machine gun fire and rocket propelled fire that took out the vital hydraulic lines.Quickly thinking the pilot jerked the aircraft out of harms way, and was forced to land four miles from the insertion point - the heart of enemy territory.  Unfortunately, during the fire and quick maneuvers Naval SEAL Petty Officer 1st Class Neil Roberts had fallen out of the Chinook and was left behind....

Minutes after Roberts had fallen, through aerial surveillance, the command base back at Bagram AB witnessed the disturbing reality of watching the al-Qaida guerillas capture and take him away.

Once on the ground, the mission had changed - search for and rescue Roberts.

45 minutes after they had landed, Razor 4 landed, the crew of Razor 3 boarded and were returned to base.  Razor 4 then took another SEAL team and an AF Combat Controller back to the scene were Roberts had fallen out.  The team received constant updates on Roberts whereabouts and the enemies around him.  Though they took on fire, Razor 4 was able to drop off it's Team safely for them to complete their mission.

Back at the base; Razor 1 and Razor 2 were taking off. Razor 1 consisted of approximately 15 Rangers, an Air Force Tactical Air Controller, 2 PJs, and an AF Combat Controller.  SrA Cunningham was one of those PJs ready for his first mission.

The sun had risen and their was no surprise as Razor 1 approached and the enemy was waiting.  Heavy machine gun and grenade fire erupted from the mountainside while the helicopter tried to land.  A rocket propelled grenade (RPG) his the aircraft in the tail rotor while it was still a good 80 feet from the ground, and bullets shattered the cockpit glass.  Rounds came flying in smashing one pilot's thigh bone and another knocked off his helmet.  The other pilot took a bullet fragment leaving a silver-dollar sized hole in his wrist and another  also ripped into his thigh.

The aircraft hit hard, but no one was injured due to the crash.

al-Qaida had taken positions 100 - 200 meters up the slope and began hitting the landed aircraft heavily.  The +Rangers ran off the back ramp - 2 or 3 died or badly wounded immediately.  The pilots opened their doors and flopped out onto the ground.

The +Chinooks door gunners took aim with their 7.62 mm miniguns to provide cover for the remaining Rangers.  Through the "Predator" (surveillance) those who were back at the base were stunned when they witnessed the left door gunner fall from his perch into the cold snow, motionless.

The survivors quickly started to fight back setting up a Ranger M-203 grenadier destroying the nearest al-Qaida position.  Unfortunately, a RPG had been shot at the Chinook and the guerilla walked back to another location and was able to launch another grenade at it.  The cargo area of the Chinook was still intact and was used as the casualty collection point.

SrA Cunningham, another PJ and two Army medics quickly went to work. All of his training was finally being put to worse on this freezing cold mountain, surrounded by enemy fire.  To add to all that could go wrong with the mission, the front end of the Chinook finally went up in flames.  Enemy fire increased all around them and mortars rocked the Chinook fiercely while Cunningham and his fellow medics worked on their bleeding colleagues.

After four hours, the Chinook was deemed no longer safe for the patients.  Using a sled like piece of metal, Cunningham proceeded to move the patients away from the Chinook, thus crossing enemy lines seven times.

A quick reaction force team had landed some 330 feet from where they were located.  Taking on heavy fire they made their way to the where Cunningham and the others were at.  The Commander of the team decided they needed to try and take out the bunker in which the enemy fire was coming from.  Cunningham volunteered to go on the attack but was instructed to stay back where his medical skills were needed.

The Rangers were stopped quickly, but do to the air support of F-15E Strike Eagles and F-16 Flying Falcons, the bunker and the enemies inside did not survive.  Bomb after bomb was dropped on the enemy positions with pin point accuracy.

However, the enemy forced Cunningham and the others to keep moving - two more times.  The third and final location was by the helicopter leaving them exposed.  The Army medic was shot twice in the abdomen.

At 1232 Cunningham was hit while he was treating a patient, just below his body armor.  The bullet traveled low through his right side across his pelvis, causing serious internal injuries.  He knew he was seriously injured but continued to treat his patients, giving one of his two blood packets to a wounded Ranger.  With his own blood flowing out onto the white snow, the other was given to him.

The Combat Controller wanted to report that the LZ (landing zone) was cold, safe to land.  but he couldn't.  He couldn't have another failed attempt risking more lives.  This decision sealed Cunningham's fate.

SrA Jason Cunningham survived for seven hours after being shot.  CPR was performed for over 30 minutes with prayers that he would survive.

SrA Jason Cunningham was the first +USAF +Pararescuemen to have been killed in war since +Vietnam.  Seven bodies were brought back, all the wounded that Cunningham and the medics worked on survived.

"That Others May Live"

They do what?!

An AF PJ - well, they do pretty much everything...

"Everything"  you say?  Yes, Everything

A Pararescueman is proficiently trained to rescue whomever in any condition, terrain, weather, etc.  Those who have been watching the #NationalGeographic series "Inside Combat Rescue" Monday nights at 2200, will see them doing actual combat rescue.  This is what they are truly trained to do.  But they are not showing so much more...

They are trained in water rescue; paratrooping into the ocean with a RAMZ package, jumping straight out of C-130 or a HH-60G.  They would either hoist their victims out (as seen in the movie The Perfect Storm), or bring them into a Zodiac boat (RAMZ) and await pick up.  Either way, most of these rescues are performed while at sea, but don't worry they will pull you out of flooding waters (Hurricane Katrina) if that is necessary.  

I'll talk about Mounatin rescues next...

Surviving the Cut

The Discovery Channel did a great piece entitled "Surviving the Cut".  Series one was on the AF Pararescue Indoc, here's a brief video for you to enjoy...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A8XVLcEWChk

AF Pararescue - PJs

First thing I hear when I tell people what "9 Line" is about is, "What's a PJ?"  I've heard everything one could possibly hear, was even asked once, "why would you write about pajamas?"  Many people think Pararescue is merely a glorified parachuter or jumper, or the same as the Armies Paratrooper.  However, they are more, much more.

Air Force Pararescue Jumper, PJ, is an elite special operations unit that is known for going into adverse conditions to rescue the fallen.  They train for over two years in all aspects of the special operations fields, to include airborne school, dive school, underwater egress, survival school, freefall parachutist school, paramedic school, and pararescue recovery school.  The training starts at Lackland AFB in what is know as the Indoctrination Course:  an extensive 10 week course of rigorous physical conditioning, swimming, running, weight raining, etc.  If you survive INDOC you will be one of few.  The current drop out rate for PJ school is 85% - basically if you starting class in INDOC is 100 people, only 15 from that original class will graduate some two years later....

To be continued...

Synopsis

9 LINE

PJs – That Others May Live

By Dawn M. Hodson

Genre: Adventure/Thriller/Romance/Military - WGA-E Registration # I216170

Logline: When saving the lives of others is your mission, being with your loved ones is put on hold. (Story based on research and interviews on sight with U. S. Air Force Pararescuer personnel with whom I worked with for several months. Story is a  blend of buddy interchange, personal romance with the backdrop of the heroic work of the Pararescuers. The Air Force cooperated in the production of this screenplay.)

                       

Synopsis: Joining the military after graduation was always the plan; becoming a Pararescuer was a dream come true.  CHASE’S life was ideal; jumping from C-130’s and Pave Hawk helicopters, water rescues, rock and ice climbing; all completed in the name of the mission; rescue those in adverse conditions and save lives. 

Returning from a mountain rescue, Chase runs into an old friend, the one he left behind, the one he fell in love with before he left, MORGAN. Regardless of the Air Force regulations stating their officer/enlisted relationship was prohibited, their feelings for one another were rekindled.

Overseas rotations come, and Chase leaves for Afghanistan, putting his full training to use, working long hard hours, and getting little rest.  When a small explosion occurs in downtown Malgir, Chase receives the 9 line call and is sent with his team for medical evacuations.  Treatment is given, and as they carry their patients back to the Pave Hawk, another explosion is heard - the local Forward Operating Base (FOB) is hit. 

Their patients delivered safely, Chase and his team head out with their new orders to the FOB.  A trapped patient in critical condition is found, and they are assigned to the extraction.  During the initial treatment, the reality of the situation is discovered; the victim is Morgan, newly rotated in from the states.  Fighting for each breath, Morgan babbles aimlessly to Chase who struggles to keep her alive.  Freed from her concrete prison, her last breaths are drawn and Chase fights to bring her back. 

Hopelessness engulfs him while she is taken into pre-op, he falls against the wall as he emotionally breaks down.  His radio sounds off and following his PJ creed, he quickly places his duties before his personal desires and returns to his Pave Hawk. With Morgan still deep in his heart, Chase stands patiently under a tree and smiles as his bride walks down the aisle.

Dedicated to those who have risked their lives “so others may live”

9 Line Intro Video

The video below is a promo video for "9 Line" - check it out on Facebook



https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=2632311612828&set=vb.121785687921329&type=3&theater

About 9 Line

The United States Air Force has an elite group of Special Operations men called Pararescuemen, or PJs.  They are apart of the Combat Rescue Team that is currently being featured on Nat Geo "Inside Combat Rescue" on Monday nights 2200 hrs.

 http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/channel/inside-combat-rescue/?gclid=CLTu2Y7117UCFQ7NnAodfEIApg

9 Line is a full length feature film that tells the story of the PJs and the sacrifice that they make every day.  

"One team, One mission, to save the lives of others"