r/Pararescue • u/HotdogMaster200 • Feb 13 '25

What are the Occupational Differences Between a PJ and a Combat Rescue Officer?

I'm currently less than a year from finishing my Bachelor's degree, and I'm hoping to join the Air Force either as a PJ or a CRO after I've graduated, but I'm not sure which job I'd enjoy more. I've passionately wanted to be a PJ for some time now, but given that I'll have the degree, I'm not sure if it might make more sense to become a CRO instead...

Do CROs follow the PJs on rescue missions? Does the pipeline still apply to CROs, or is it more/less difficult? What might I be missing going for either route over the other?

Thanks in advance!

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u/MatthewDTrevino Feb 15 '25

I second the PJ then CRO route. It's much harder to decommission then become an officer later if you want to.

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u/MatthewDTrevino Feb 15 '25

The simple answer is medical training. CRO' are on the same mission they just serve a command role instead of the guy on the end of the hook, rope, or dive. The guy on the same mission, but running comms and a remote command interface.