Pararescuemen to Descend on the East End for Festivities

Every two years, the U.S. Air Force Pararescue Association holds a reunion packed with activities for current and retired pararescuemen from around the world.

This year, the group has chosen to play on the East End, Sept. 18 through the 23rd. The coordinating committee of the reunion is comprised of retired and former pararescuemen from the 103rd Rescue Squadron’s parent unit, the based in Westhampton. Francis S. Gabreski Airport has been home to pararescumen since 1975, where pararescue jumpers (or “PJs”) have provided search and rescue support throughout the northeast and around the globe.

Southampton Town Board members will begin Wednesday’s meeting by presenting members of the 103rd Rescue Squadron with a proclamation welcoming current and retired pararescuemen to the area. Accepting the proclamation on the group’s behalf will be Master Sgt. Jules Roy, Staff Sgt. Mark Joseloff and Staff Sgt. Mathew Zimmer.  

Historically, the reunion is attended by several hundred pararescue retirees, family, friends, as well as active duty members of the U.S. Air Force, Reserves, and Air National Guard. This year will include wine tastings, area tours, a banquet, barbecue, fishing trip, and 5K run at Indian Island County Park.

A pararescue jumper rodeo will also take place on Peconic Bay on Sept. 18 between Long Island Aquarium and Exhibition Center in Riverhead and in Greenport. Stay tuned for more details on this special event.

For more information about the reunion, including the schedule of events and how to register, visit www.pararescuereunion.com.