Mike Brown knows what it takes to become a para-rescue jumper for the Air Force. He graduated from training in 2005 and served three tours of duty from 2006 to 2008. "They break you down physically and mentally," says Brown.
PJ recruits learn how to free fall, dive, administer medical care and simply survive in the harshest conditions. Less than five percent of the people who take the challenge earn the honor. "Our job is to rescue downed air crew," says Brown. "However, there are a lot of humanitarian tasks for us as well."
One of Brown's mentors, Master Sergeant Michael Maltz was on a humanitarian mission, transporting Afghan children to the hospital, when he was killed in 2003. "He was a great guy," says Brown. "Everyone looked up to him. He worked really hard. He pushed the limits." MSgt. Maltz's comrades and family are remembering him on with a challenge, fitting of an elite Air Force PJ. It's called the Maltz Challenge.
On March 26th, gyms across the world will hold workouts in memory of Maltz and other fallen soldiers and law enforcement officers. All proceeds go the DEA Survivor Benefit Fund. Like PJ training, the Maltz Challenge is designed to test physical and mental limits, with the mission of realizing anything is possible. "Because when it's all said and done, it helps you climb mountains and when you look back you can say, 'Wow, I really did that.'"
