Air Force pararescuemen, also known as "PJs," recently put their skills to the test during a biennial competition — the PJ Rodeo — in Louisville, Ky.
During the event, airmen demonstrated skills in precision parachuting, marksmanship, technical rescue and tactical medicine. They also competed in a series of physical and mental challenges called a "monster mash."
This year, the contest was hosted by the Kentucky Air National Guard's 123rd Special Tactics Squadron.
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Pararescuemen are the only Defense Department elite combat force trained and equipped to conduct full spectrum personnel recovery.
Their mission is to rescue, recover and return American or allied forces in times of danger or extreme duress.