What is a Combat Rescue Officer?

Career: Combat Rescue Officer

A Combat Rescue Officer (CRO) is a commissioned officer in the United States Air Force who leads and manages personnel recovery operations, including combat search and rescue missions. They are responsible for planning, organizing, and executing missions to locate, recover, and provide medical care to isolated personnel in hostile or challenging environments. CROs work alongside Pararescuemen (PJs) and other specialists, often deploying in high-risk situations to ensure the safe return of military personnel. Their training covers leadership, survival, navigation, and advanced rescue techniques, making them critical to the Air Force's personnel recovery capabilities.