These things I do, that others may live - USAF PJs

Pararescuemen (AFSC 1T2X1) are United States Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) and Air Combat Command (ACC) operatives tasked with recovery and medical treatment of personnel in humanitarian and combat environments.

They are the only members of the Department of Defense specifically organized, trained and equipped to conduct personnel recovery operations in hostile or denied areas as a primary mission. Also known as “PJs” (Pararescue Jumpers), these special operations units are used to support NASA missions and have been used to recover astronauts after water landings.

They are attached to other SOF teams from all branches to conduct other operations as appropriate. Of the 22 enlisted Air Force Cross recipients, 12 are Pararescuemen. PJs wear the maroon beret as a symbol of their elite status, and to symbolize the blood shed by past PJs, as well as the blood current members are willing to shed to save lives.

It is my duty as a Pararescueman to save lives 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.

 Remembering USAF Captain Joseph Michael Fahey Killed in Action 2/11/1962