how much time do you have after basic training and before air force pararescue development course

by Paul D'Amore 8 min read

After Basic Training you can expect to go straight into the Battlefield Airman Prep Program which is 8 weeks long, then you go into the Development course which is 2 weeks long. Lastly you will go to the PJ/CRO Indoctrination Course which is 9 weeks.

Full Answer

How hard is Air Force Pararescue training?

Air Force Pararescue (PJ) Training. Training is extremely challenging both physically and mentally, but if you graduate and wear the maroon beret (PJ) or the scarlet beret (CCT), you will be one of the most highly trained combat medics in the world, able to handle the most stressful situations with ease.

What happens after basic training in the Air Force?

For most Air Force enlisted personnel, the rough stuff is over after basic training ends. For a PJ, the end of basic training means their physical and mental toughness training is just beginning. The next phase of training for prospective Pararescuemen is what’s known to PJ’s as “The Pipeline.”

How long does it take to become a Pararescueman?

They also have to know how to parachute, operate in water, survive in the wild, and do other required PJ tasks such as repelling from helicopters. That’s why it takes almost two years of training to become a certified Pararescueman. This is one of the longest Special Forces training regimens in the world.

Is the pararescue Brotherhood respected by other Air Force members?

The Pararescue brotherhood is respected highly by not only other Air Force members, but also by other military branches and those in the civilian community as well. Pararescue Vs.

How long does it take to become a Pararescue in the Air Force?

How long is Air Force Pararescue training? PJ training is one of the most rigorous in the U.S. military and can take up to two years to complete. It includes Basic, physical training, dive school, airborne training, survival training, and emergency medical training.

How long do you have to serve as a PJ?

The primary focus of the course, which is 6-weeks in duration, is to develop Pararescue/Combat Rescue Officers and Combat Controller/Special Tactics Officers into competent, capable and safe combat divers/swimmers.

How hard is it to get a PJ contract?

It's not easy to join Pararescue. Over 80% of the men who try out for the Air Force's special operations... It's not easy to join Pararescue. Over 80% of the men who try out for the Air Force's special operations search and rescue corps don't make it (women will get their chance soon.

How long does it take to become CRO?

From boot camp to first deployment, a Combat Rescue Officer may undertake up to two years of training. It must be emphasised that a candidate must be physically fit at the beginning of the Combat Rescue Officer training process if they are to stand any chance of success.

How much do PJs get paid?

The base pay for PJs -- who must have at least the rank of airman first class, senior airman or staff sergeant -- ranges from $21,089 to $36,155 per year as of publication. They also receive housing allowances or free on-base housing, and a food allowance.

How often do PJs deploy?

How often are you deployed? It's about once a year for four months. Things are slowing down as far as deployment schedules, so I don't know when the next one on the books will be.

What happens if you fail the PJ pipeline?

He will base that off of your performance and instructor/peer evaluations. If you Fail a certain event such as buddy breathing during a Progress check, which is held once a week, and fail the same event the next week you will most likely be washed back or eliminated from the course based on your performance.

What do you call a woman in the Air Force?

In the Army, all are Soldiers. In the Marine Corps, it's Marine. And in the Air Force, all service members are Airmen (male or female — an awkward problem we can fix in the space service.) We must include gender neutrality in our choice to reflect modern sensibilities.

Do PJs rescue civilians?

The PJs are responsible for providing emergency and life-saving services to airmen, soldiers and civilians in peacetime and combat environments. When a plane goes down in the jungle or ocean, PJs are there to find and save the pilots and crew.

Should I be a PJ or a CRO?

The first major difference between PJs and CROs is that CROs are commissioned officers in the USAF, whereas PJs are enlisted men. The first requirement to become a CRO is a Bachelor's degree. The first requirement to be a PJ is either a high school diploma or a Graduate Equivalency Degree (GED).

Is a CRO a PJ?

CRO or Combat Rescue Officer — BE A PJ.

Can pararescue be officers?

The primary focus of AFCDC is to develop Pararescuemen/Combat Rescue Officers and Combat Controller/Special Tactics Officers into competent, capable and safe combat divers/swimmers. The course provides commanders with divers/swimmers capable of undertaking personnel recovery and special operations waterborne missions.

How long is the Air Force Pararescue course?

It used to be that Air Force Pararescue trainees spent 6 weeks at the Special Forces Dive Course but now this is broken up into two segments, one that lasts 4 weeks followed by a 5-week course.

What does the end of basic training mean for a pararescueman?

For a PJ, the end of basic training means their physical and mental toughness training is just beginning. The next phase of training for prospective Pararescuemen is what’s known to PJ’s as “The Pipeline.”.

How old do you have to be to be a pararescueman?

Even the prerequisites and other qualifications to enter into the Pararescue pipeline are demanding. They consist of: Must be between the ages of 17 and 39. Be a High School graduate or have a GED.

How many meters underwater do you have to swim to be a PJ?

To complete the PAST and qualify for further PJ training the enlisted Pararescue pipeline member must: Swim 50 meters underwater without coming up for a breath of air.

What makes being a PJ so tough?

Pararescue Training. Image: Af.mil. What makes being a ‘PJ’ so tough is that they are part Special Forces soldier and part Paramedic. They also have to know how to parachute, operate in water, survive in the wild, and do other required PJ tasks such as repelling from helicopters.

How long does it take to swim 500 meters?

Swim 500 meters non-stop using a combination of breast, side, and freestyle swimming strokes in less than 10 minutes and 17 seconds. Briskly run 1.5 miles in less than 9 minutes and 47 seconds. Do 10 pull-ups in less than 1 minute. Do 58 sit-ups in less than two minutes. Do 54 push-ups in less than 2 minutes.

What is the name of the army that saved thousands of aircrew and soldiers' lives?

That makes it older than the Air Force itself (established 1947). Since that time, “PJs,” “Maroon Berets,” or “Rescue Rangers” as they have been affectionately been called over the years, have been responsible for saving thousands of downed aircrew and soldiers’ lives.

How to become a PJ?

To become a PJ or CCT, you must be a proficient swimmer and meet physical standards of at least 100 points on the physical ability and stamina test (PAST). The test consists of three swims, a run and pull-ups, sit-ups and push-ups -- all in a three-hour window. Those jobs are open only to enlisted troops.

What is the Air Force Special Tactics?

These are just some of the missions of the Air Force Special Tactics -- the para-jumpers, or PJs, and combat control technician, or CCT. The PJs are responsible for providing emergency and life-saving services to airmen, soldiers and civilians in peacetime and combat environments.

What is PJ in combat?

Training is extremely challenging physically and mentally, but if you graduate and wear the maroon beret (PJ) or the scarlet beret (CCT), you will be one of the most highly trained combat medics in the world, able to handle the most stressful situations with ease.

How long is the Air Force training?

Air Force recruits undergo eight and a half weeks of training in San Antonio, Texas. Each week is scheduled, beginning with "week zero.". The following is a breakdown of each week in Air Force Basic Training:

How long does it take to become an airman?

Updated July 08, 2019. It takes more than eight weeks of long days to create an airman. And those days begin, by the way, at 4:45 A.M. The mission and vision statements of the Air Force Basic Military Training Command put it succinctly: Mission: "Transform civilians into a motivated, disciplined warrior Airmen with the foundation to serve in ...

What do new recruits get for basic training?

This is the "processing week." New recruits get haircuts and are issued everything they need for basic training. That includes combat boots, running shoes, leather gloves, a duffel bag, wool and cotton socks, two towels, a pair of sweatpants, two T-shirts, a sweatshirt, and other essentials.

What is the toughest week of basic training?

BEAST Week Five. This is known as BEAST Week for more than one reason. It includes Basic Expeditionary Airman Skills Training (BEAST). And it's regarded as the toughest week of basic training. Recruits also undergo Combat Arms Training and Maintenance (CATM), and practice of combative and use of the pugil stick.

What is the emphasis of combat training?

The emphasis is on self-defense and protecting other members of your unit.

Can friends and family attend the Air Force coin ceremony?

Friends and family are allowed to attend the formal ceremony at which you enter the United States Air Force. This week is also when the basic training coin ceremony takes place as cadets transition from trainee to airman.

How long does it take to train for security forces?

Security Forces is another meaningful career in the Air Force. The training for Security Forces is 65 days long and occurs at Lackland Air Force Base.

How long is the security force training?

The training for Security Forces is 65 days long and occurs at Lackland Air Force Base. You will not have to go far once processing out after basic training. Security Forces receive law enforcement training, learn combat skills, and protect both people and property.

How long does it take to train at AIT?

For instance, if your job is to be administrative, you attend AIT at Keesler Air Force Base for 41 days. During that time, you learn office management policies and the skills necessary for official documents.

What is AIT in the Air Force?

After basic, you attend Advanced Individual Training (AIT). AIT is where you learn the necessary skills needed for entry-level at your Air Force career. This technical training depends on your career. There are several Air Force careers, and most of the training for the careers happen between four bases.

What time does Base Liberty end?

Base liberty ends at 6:00 pm, which is earlier than previous days, but Monday is a day where graduates leave Lackland Air Force base and continue with the next phase of what happens after Air Force basic training. Related Article – Air Force Basic Training Graduation Gift Ideas.

What does it mean to graduate from the Air Force?

Graduating from Air Force basic training means you accomplished a significant milestone in your life. However, you are probably wondering what happens after Air Force basic training. There are several steps to consider before your life returns to a regular routine. For instance, the weekend after graduation is a time of celebration ...

How many days of leave do you get in the Air Force?

Recruits usually have banked five days of leave by the end of basic training. Leave is accrued during technical school, too, but not all training programs are long enough to accrue the additional five days. You could also go straight to your first duty station, and the Air Force pays for your flight.

Here's Your Chance to See San Antonio

Rod Powers was the U.S. Military expert for The Balance Careers and was a retired Air Force First Sergeant with 22 years of active duty service.

The Thursday Pass

Your first pass will be immediately following the retreat ceremony on the Thursday of graduation week. This will be an on-base pass, so you can't leave Lackland Air Force Base.

Weekend Passes

Your first off-base pass will be on Friday following the graduation parade and open house. You can go anywhere in the San Antonio area.

The Sunday Pass

If you wish, your visiting loved ones can attend religious services with you on Sunday morning. After the service, you're released for an on-base pass.

But No Leave

The Air Force doesn't grant leave, or real vacation time, following Air Force Basic Military Training. On the Monday following graduation, you'll process out of basic training and proceed directly to your technical school.

Why do airmen need to go to tech school?

The Air Force needs a certain number of airmen to complete basic training and be ready to start tech school to keep up with career demands. The demand the Air Force has for a specific AFSC determines how quickly an airman transitions from basic training to tech school.

How does an Air Force recruiter work?

Your Air Force recruiter is responsible for getting you into the military. Once you board the plane or bus for Lackland Air Force Base in Texas, your recruiter's job is technically done. If possible, your recruiter may allow you to choose the dates you leave for basic training. The Air Force needs a certain number of airmen to complete basic training and be ready to start tech school to keep up with career demands. The demand the Air Force has for a specific AFSC determines how quickly an airman transitions from basic training to tech school.

What is AFSC in the Air Force?

An AFSC is another way of saying the job you do in the Air Force. The length of time you spend in tech school varies based on your assigned AFSC. Tech school usually starts right after basic training, but there may be some situations that cause a delay.

What does it mean to be recycled in the Air Force?

Being recycled means you are placed back one or more weeks of training and you do not graduate with the flight you started with. Common reasons for being recycled are behavioral and medical issues. When you enter basic training, the Air Force expects you to complete the class without issues. If you are recycled, it can throw off ...

Do Air Force reservists go to tech school?

Typically, Air Force active-duty and reservists go to tech school immediately after basic training. The active-duty and reservist are paid by the federal government, so their goal is to ensure airmen are “mission compliant” as quickly as possible.

Can you join the National Guard in high school?

Some juniors in high school who join through the National Guard can exercise a split-option, which means they can attend basic training during the summer before the senior year of high school. They wait to complete tech school until after graduating high school.

Do AFSCs offer enlistment bonuses?

Usually, AFSCs that offer enlistment bonuses and incentives have a quick turnaround time for tech school since the Air Force needs as many trained, qualified airmen in that career field as possible. If you choose a career field that is in less demand, you increase your chances of waiting before attending tech school.

How many days of leave do you get in the military?

Everyone in the military earns 2.5 days of leave (vacation time) for every month of active duty service. That doesn't mean you get to use your vacation any time you want. Leave approval is subject to the "needs of the service.".

How long is Marine Corps leave?

The Marine Corps grants 10 days of leave immediately following basic training graduation, prior to reporting to the School of Infantry. The Coast Guard grants one week of leave following Coast Guard basic training, prior to reporting to the first duty assignment. While on leave, you're responsible for all travel expenses.

Can you take leave during basic training?

Supervisors and/or commanding officers must approve all leave. Unless you have a verified family emergency (de ath or serious injury/ill ness of an immediate family member), you're not allowed to take leave during basic training. If you joined the Navy or Air Force, you're not usually allowed to take leave until you finish your military job training.

Can you take leave from the Navy?

If you joined the Navy or Air Force, you're not usually allowed to take leave until you finish your military job training. The one exception to this rule is that you're usually allowed to take a week or so of leave if you're attending job training during Christmas week.

What is the first week of Air Force training?

Week 1. The first week will challenge you physically and mentally to prepare you for the training. You will undergo physical training evaluation, dental and medical tests. Then, you will start physical conditioning and drills. You will learn the basics of Air Force life, including how to report and salute, entry control procedures, ...

What is the Air Force Basic Training?

Air Force basic military training is the program through which civilians become professional airmen. It is also known as AFBMT or Air Force Boot Camp. The program covers the fundamentals of military life, including military discipline and ceremonies. It also teaches recruits necessary war skills, drills and physical fitness.

How long does AFBMT training last?

Your technical training can last between one month and over two years.

What does the beast stand for in Air Force?

BEAST stands for Basic Expeditionary Airman Skills Training. It includes Combat Arms Training and Maintenance (CATM), combative practice and use of the pugil stick. You will take part in field training exercises and combat scenarios created to bring out the wingman and warrior in you.

Where is AFBMT in Texas?

AFBMT takes place at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. Whether you plan on entering the Air National Guard, the active-duty Air Force or the Air Force Reserves, you will go through the same basic training. Over 35,000 new recruits take part in the AFBMT every year.

How to pass a basic training test?

Get in shape. Start your physical preparation six months before basic training. If you are prepared for physical challenges, you will be more likely to pass the tests without injuries. Your exercises should include running, backpacking and calisthenics. Talk to your family.

What is the second week of Air Force?

The second week teaches you about the Air Force's proud history and heritage. You will receive education on the warrior role, necessary leadership and character. Courses also cover suicide awareness and prevention, basic situational awareness and cyber awareness. You will train on weapon handling and maintenance as well as complete airman's fitness. Marching and drill positions training continues.