My week at the 2016 Pararescue (PJ) Rodeo/Reunion

This past week I attended the 2016 Pararescue (PJ) Rodeo/Reunion in Florida not only as a representative for Team Wendy, but also as a retired USAF PJ. The event was an enormous success and had record breaking attendance that included 46 competitors from 11 different PJ units. The 308th RQS and the 2016 PJ Rodeo/Reunion Committee should be commended for planning such a successful event.

The Reunion and Rodeo has been held for the past decade and is a gathering of former and current USAF Pararescumen/PJ's. These prolific "warfighters" have a storied history rich in heroic deeds on and off of the battlefield. Every two years the PJ brotherhood gathers to celebrate and remember their fallen teammates. In addition to this celebration the current Pararescue force hosts a friendly but tough competition known as the PJ Rodeo. The Rodeo events are designed to test the skills, tactics, techniques and procedures the current USAF PJ's are employing on the battlefield today. The winning team holds the title "Best PJ" until the next Rodeo in 2018. If you want more information about the event go to www.pjreunion.com or www.pjrodeo.com.

Here are some pictures from the week...

High Angle Rope Rescue Challenge


PJ Sponsor Reception


First Place Team from the Battlefield Airman Training Center in San Antonio

Some friends I reconnected with during the PJ Rodeo


CMSGT PARARESCUE (ret) Paul Koester/ USAF