Pararescue - the Skill and Courage of the Elite 106th Rescue Wing - the True Story of an Incredible Rescue at Sea & the Heroes who pulled it Off

by Michael Hirsh

A riveting account of a real-life rescue at sea describes the capsizing of the cargo ship Salvador Alende during a massive storm and the desperate efforts of the fabled "PJs" of the 106th Rescue Wing who risked their lives to save survivors. Original.

Genres: Military Fiction, Nonfiction

Paperback

First published January 1, 2001

About the author

Michael Hirsh is the author of numerous books. During a 40-year career in broadcasting, he produced documentaries and specials for PBS, CBS, ABC and HBO, receiving multiple awards, including the Peabody.

He lives and writes in Punta Gorda, Florida

Reviews

[Stephen · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're looking for an action adventure novel, don't read this. IF you are looking for an AMAZING true story, look no further. In 1994 the Salvador Allende was struck by two huge waves and so began the crews fight for life. This is the incredible story of the 106th Rescue Wing and the hell they went through So Others May Live. Those crews busted their butts for people they didn't even know. This book will thrill you in places and leave you in tears. Thank you all Air Force Rescue Crews!

[Ant Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brave

A very well written book.and explains in great detail life unadulterated bravery. The author has been able to allow you to be immersed in the book.

[Raf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Michael Hirsh’s first book is a fantastic true story about a dangerous and daring rescue at sea. The Motor Vessel SALVADOR ALLENDE was a 450ft bulk carrier with 31 crew members that was set to sail from Freeport, Texas to Helsinki, Finland in December, 1994 when the vessel encountered heavy winds and seas 1,200 miles off the coast of new Jersey. The vessel was struck by a gargantuan rogue wave (approximately 100 FT) on December 8th, 1994causing the vessel to sink rapidly. The crew scrambled to launch rafts and lifeboats but unsuccessful due to heavy winds. The arduous rescue efforts were coordinated between the U.S. Coast Guard, the 106th Rescue Group of the New York Air National Guard, the Air Force Pararescuemen, and the Canadian Air Force.

As someone who has served over 10 years in the Coast Guard, I have been involved in search and rescue cases. This book was very heartfelt. I could imagine what the air crews were going through having to refuel in mid-air multiple times in very difficult weather conditions. The author does an incredible job not only telling the story but allowing the reader to feel like they are right there in the middle of all the action. I was blown away by the bravery of these incredible men who willingly risked their lives to save people they didn’t even know, as well as endure the hardships of adverse weather and sea conditions.

This book is a great read. If you are interested in finding out more about Pararescue and their intense training and missions, Michael Hirsh also wrote a book called None Braver, about the PJ’s involvement in Afghanistan after 9/11. It was one of the most amazing books I’ve ever read in my life. It takes a lot of experience, devotion, and skill to write such fantastic books. Thank you, Michael Hirsh for putting together such awesome accounts of bravery displayed by our kickass military.

[A.R. Moler · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked it but it was slow going and seemed to dwell a great deal of the procedural ends of the events that happened.

[Brittany · Rating 3 out of 5]

Incredible story.
Didn't love the way it was written