Air Force Pararescue

Air Force Pararescue
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Unit name	Air Force Pararescue
Country	United States
Branch	United States Air Force
Type	Special Operations Force
Role	Combat Search and Rescue
Command structure	Air Force Special Operations Command

Air Force Pararescue, also known as Pararescue Recovery Specialists, are United States Air Force Special Operations Command specialists trained to conduct Combat Search and Rescue operations. They are part of the Air Force Special Operations Command and work closely with other special operations units, such as the United States Navy SEALs and the United States Army Rangers. Air Force Pararescue teams often deploy with United States Air Force Special Operations Weather Technicians and United States Air Force Tactical Air Controllers to provide support for United States Special Operations Command missions. Their training includes courses at the United States Air Force Academy and the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School.

● History of

Air Force Pararescue The history of Air Force Pararescue dates back to World War II, when the United States Army Air Forces established the Parachute Rescue and Emergency Services unit. This unit was later renamed to Pararescue Recovery Specialists and became part of the United States Air Force after its establishment in 1947. During the Korean War and the Vietnam War, Air Force Pararescue teams conducted numerous Combat Search and Rescue operations, often working with United States Marine Corps and United States Army units. They also participated in the Bay of Pigs Invasion and the Gulf War. Notable figures, such as General Curtis LeMay and General Henry H. Arnold, played important roles in shaping the Air Force Pararescue program. The United States Air Force Museum and the National Museum of the United States Air Force showcase the history of Air Force Pararescue.

● Organization and Training

Air Force Pararescue teams are organized under the Air Force Special Operations Command and are trained at the Kirtland Air Force Base and the Fairchild Air Force Base. Their training includes courses in Parachuting, Scuba Diving, and Emergency Medical Technician skills, as well as instruction at the United States Army Special Forces school. They also work closely with other special operations units, such as the 24th Special Tactics Squadron and the 321st Special Tactics Squadron. The United States Air Force Pararescue Association and the Special Operations Warrior Foundation provide support to Air Force Pararescue teams and their families. Notable training exercises include the Red Flag (United States Air Force), Green Flag (United States Air Force), and Northern Edge.

● Mission and Operations

The primary mission of Air Force Pararescue is to conduct Combat Search and Rescue operations, which involve recovering Downed Aircrew and other personnel from hostile or hard-to-reach areas. They often work with United States Air Force Special Operations Weather Technicians and United States Air Force Tactical Air Controllers to provide support for United States Special Operations Command missions. Air Force Pararescue teams have participated in numerous operations, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. They have also worked with international partners, such as the Royal Air Force and the Australian Special Air Service Regiment. The United States Air Force has recognized the bravery and sacrifice of Air Force Pararescue teams through awards, such as the Air Force Cross and the Silver Star.

● Equipment and Vehicles

Air Force Pararescue teams use a variety of equipment and vehicles to conduct their operations, including the HH-60 Pave Hawk helicopter, the HC-130 Combat King II aircraft, and the Pararescue Vehicle. They also use specialized gear, such as Parachutes, Scuba Gear, and Emergency Medical Equipment. The United States Air Force has invested in research and development to improve the equipment and vehicles used by Air Force Pararescue teams, including the Advanced Technology Demonstration program. The Lockheed Martin and Boeing companies have played important roles in developing equipment and vehicles for Air Force Pararescue teams.

● Notable Pararescuemen

Several Air Force Pararescue teams have received recognition for their bravery and sacrifice, including Master Sergeant William F. Frazier, who received the Air Force Cross for his actions during the Vietnam War. Other notable Pararescuemen include Technical Sergeant Scott F. Smith, who received the Silver Star for his actions during Operation Enduring Freedom, and Staff Sergeant Robert Gutierrez, who received the Air Force Cross for his actions during Operation Iraqi Freedom. The United States Air Force has also recognized the contributions of Pararescuemen, such as General Norton A. Schwartz and General Eric E. Fiel, who have served as commanders of the Air Force Special Operations Command. The National Defense University and the United States Air Force Academy have honored notable Pararescuemen through awards and scholarships.

● Selection and Certification Process

The selection and certification process for Air Force Pararescue teams is highly competitive and involves a series of physical and mental challenges, including the Pararescue Indoctrination Course and the Pararescue Recovery Specialist Course. Candidates must also complete training at the United States Air Force Pararescue School and the United States Army Special Forces school. The United States Air Force has established strict standards for Pararescuemen, including the requirement for a Top Secret security clearance and the completion of a Physical Fitness Test. The Air Force Personnel Center and the Air Force Recruiting Service oversee the selection and certification process for Air Force Pararescue teams. The United States Air Force has also established partnerships with organizations, such as the Special Operations Warrior Foundation and the Wounded Warrior Project, to support the selection and certification process.

Category:United States Air Force Special Operations Command