Pararescuemen - also known as PJs, are the only Department of Defense elite combat forces specifically organized, trained, equipped, and postured to conduct full spectrum Personnel Recovery to include both conventional and unconventional combat rescue operations. These Battlefield Airmen are the most highly trained and versatile Personnel Recovery specialists in the world. Pararescue is the nation’s force of choice to execute the most perilous, demanding, and extreme rescue missions anytime, anywhere across the globe.

The 500+ PJs are assigned to U.S. Air Force Guardian Angel and Special Tactics Squadrons throughout the Active Duty, Guard, and Reserve Air Force components. They operate most often as independent teams but routinely serve alongside other U.S. and Allied Special Operations Forces.