Pushing Through The Pain

by SSgt Vernon Young Jr.

Texas Trip 2010: Abandoned ranch

Airmen duck walk with their weapons held atop of their heads during the Air Force Pararescuemen Indoctrination "Hell Week" Course, September 6, 2011, Lackland Air Force Base, Texas.  During "Hell Week" Airmen simulate a real-world mission which could involve air, ground and water survival.  Airmen must complete 62 weeks of training in addition to military basic training to become an Air Force Pararescueman. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sergeant Vernon Young Jr.)

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Tired and exhausted after a long day of exercising, potential pararescuemen push their physical and mental limits in hopes of soon earning that coveted title.  Although many were weak and weary, one Airman continued, driving through the pain.  I had always known the limits of the human body are defined by one’s willpower to go beyond those limits, but it was an incredible inspiration to see it firsthand.  The level of determination is one key factor that makes Air Force pararescuemen some of the most extraordinary people in today’s military.