What do you think about AF Para-rescue?

SMSgt Bryan Raines — Fri, 07 Aug 2015 11:25:23 -0400

I read in a comment in another post that other services' special forces look down on Air Force Para-rescue (PJ's). In your experience do you find this to be true and if yes then why?

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Aug 7 at 2015 11:27 AM

SGT Ben Keen — Fri, 07 Aug 2015 11:27:48 -0400

I haven't seen it. PJs have done some amazing things and I think any one that has needed them would never allow others to look down on them.

Response by MSgt Curtis Ellis made Aug 7 at 2015 11:54 AM

MSgt Curtis Ellis — Fri, 07 Aug 2015 11:54:00 -0400

I've worked with PJ/CCT Airman for a number of years in a training/support joint-setting, and from what I've gathered working around all of our military SOF's is that, other than the typical branch of service ribbing, the respect is mutual across the board as they bring a specific skill-set to the table... Anyone who has ever worked with them operationally would agree.

Response by Sgt Wayne Wood made Oct 4 at 2016 5:14 PM

Sgt Wayne Wood — Tue, 04 Oct 2016 17:14:24 -0400

PJs & Combat Controllers... the only people who make the Air Force a military service. NOTHING but RESPECT!

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 4 at 2016 5:27 PM

SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Oct 2016 17:27:34 -0400

I've worked with both being a Parachute Rigger for the Army and it's because they are labeled Special Operations just like SF and they don't see it that way!

Response by SSgt Robert Atkinson made Oct 12 at 2016 12:44 PM

SSgt Robert Atkinson — Wed, 12 Oct 2016 12:44:41 -0400

No, PJ'S are tough as any! Two things, 1. I as a radio troop in Thailand, I supported the PJ Jolly Greens and Hueys, they were sharp, constantly training, and selfless! And 2. You have to remember the "Most Decorated Soldier" of the Vietnam War was a PJ!

I planned to volunteer as a gunner on AC-130's, though my tour was shortened so I never did, but, when the PJ'S woke me up, returning from before breakfast 10 mile run at 0600, I always felt safe.

Response by Sgt Dale Briggs made Dec 2 at 2021 6:32 PM

Sgt Dale Briggs — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 18:32:04 -0500

Look down? Your in the shit, you call they come, every time. Who in their right mind looks down on guys that risk their life to save your ass? They’re Docs on steroids with special skills.

Response by MSgt Matt Hancock made Dec 3 at 2021 1:04 PM

MSgt Matt Hancock — Fri, 03 Dec 2021 13:04:25 -0500

I worked around PJs many times (I was an AF Survival Instructor) and never was disappointed with their performance and attitude. Definitely worthy of respect regardless of what branch of service.

Response by MSgt Matt Hancock made Dec 3 at 2021 1:05 PM

MSgt Matt Hancock — Fri, 03 Dec 2021 13:05:47 -0500

As an AF survival instructor I was privileged to work with them on many occasions. Their pride and dedication are a tribute to their professionalism. They deserve respect, regardless of the branch of service.

Response by SrA Travis Ebmeyer made Apr 21 at 2022 11:03 AM

SrA Travis Ebmeyer — Thu, 21 Apr 2022 11:03:40 -0400

No were have I ever went has anyone said that, “ they usually make a smart ass comment, chair force huh, and then oh a pj, you guys are bad ass…All spec ops communities have there own, “specialty” if you will. Its not that one is better, (possibly more highly trained) than the other. Its that they are more skilled in there areas. Ive worked with ALL from everywhere, we all bleed like everyone else.

Response by SrA Travis Ebmeyer made May 12 at 2022 10:56 PM

SrA Travis Ebmeyer — Thu, 12 May 2022 22:56:01 -0400

Sir, 1st and foremost, we as units, teams, sts, delta……. We all play for the same team. I absolutely believe every spec ops unit has there duty to fulfill and thats what, that op unit is trained to do. Seals, they are hammers, marine recon(hoa just had a flashback) those guys are ghosts and tough as railroad spikes. Regardless they all have a specific purpose. However, usually the SF with as little people as possible associated with(is usually the hardest, highly trained of all! If their werent pjs, who would go save those other branch SF’s, Asses!!

Response by SPC David C. made Sep 25 at 2023 6:13 PM

SPC David C. — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 18:13:33 -0400

Gotta say, initially at least, I didn't have a lot of respect for them. I was wrong. PJs are legit.

Response by Amn John Blount made Nov 28 at 2023 8:23 PM

Amn John Blount — Tue, 28 Nov 2023 20:23:58 -0500

Tell them to go blow a goat. There is a reason it is called "Superman School". Be jealous, be very jealous.