Chad McCoy: A Distinguished Career as an Air Force Pararescueman (PJ)

Chad M. is a humble innovator, tireless entrepreneur, and generous human being. He is also a true war hero with 17 combat deployments.

In the latest episode of WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast, Air Force Pararescueman (PJ), CMSgt (Ret) Chad M., shared exhilarating stories of high-stakes rescue missions and the crucial role of medical care in combat.

Pararescue Jumpers

Pararescue Jumpers during training. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jason W. Edwards)

High-Stakes Rescue Missions

Listeners can hear Chad's exhilarating stories of high-stakes rescue missions, the crucial role of medical care in combat, and his transition into the world of business post-military.

In the late '90s, I aspired to be Pararescue (PJ), and I assumed every mission would be like this one, but the truth is that not everyone gets to jump out of a plane in the middle of the night into the Indian Ocean to save a US Hostage.

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It was great to reconnect with Capt. Richard Phillips precisely 15 years to the day of his rescue. The photo below was taken moments after we hoisted him up to the fantail of the USS Bainbridge and took him to check for bullet holes.

Rescue Operation

Captain Richard Phillips is helped aboard the USS Bainbridge after being rescued from Somali pirates in 2009. (US Navy photo)

Immediately after the operation, we departed the USS Bainbridge via SH-60 to the USS Boxer, and his life would change forever. However, I had to return to work in East Africa and never thought to get in touch.

Many deployments later, new memories, and other significant operations wrote over this event for me. When I had the opportunity to meet his wife, Andrea, I realized the significance of this history and the impact of the things we do in life, especially in the service of others.

Transition to Business Post-Military

Listen to Chad's exhilarating stories of high-stakes rescue missions, the crucial role of medical care in combat, and his transition into the world of business post-military.

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Transitioning From Military To Business

Supporting Wounded Veterans

This weekend's event raised money for wounded veterans, with over $180k in donations through the Silent Warrior Foundation, providing many methods of life-changing post-service care.

Silent Warrior Foundation Logo

Silent Warrior Foundation Logo

I’m grateful for an exciting life and having the chance to reflect years later, knowing that some still carry the torch.

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