Ep 9. Into the Hot Zone

Inside Combat Rescue is a documentary television series that follows the elite airmen of the United States Air Force Pararescuemen (PJs) as they embark on dangerous rescue missions in war-torn regions of Afghanistan. Season 1 episode 9, titled "Into the Hot Zone", takes the viewers through a heart-pumping ride as the PJs undertake perilous missions to rescue wounded soldiers amid raging gunfire and explosions.

The episode begins with the PJs receiving a rescue mission call at their base in Bagram, Afghanistan. Their task is to extract an injured Afghan National Army (ANA) soldier who has been shot during an ongoing firefight with the Taliban in Kandahar province. The PJs quickly gear up and board their specially equipped HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopter to begin the rescue operation.

As they fly towards the hot zone, the PJs discuss the tactics they will use to carry out the rescue mission. Their plan involves landing the helicopter in an open field near the ANA position and then move on foot to reach the injured soldier. However, the PJs know that the Taliban is watching their movements and could launch an attack at any moment.

As the Pave Hawk reaches the landing zone, the PJs quickly disembark and take cover, scanning the area for any signs of enemy activity. They then move swiftly towards the ANA’s position, avoiding enemy fire and taking cover behind trees and rocks. Along the way, they encounter an ANA soldier who is suffering from a gunshot wound and needs immediate attention. The PJs quickly administer first aid and carry him along with them towards the injured soldier.

When they reach the ANA’s position, the PJs find the injured soldier lying in a ditch with a gunshot wound to his leg. The PJs provide him with necessary medical care, including IV fluids and pain medication, and quickly prepare him for evacuation. Meanwhile, the sound of gunfire and artillery can be heard in the background, marking the intensity of the ongoing battle.

As the PJs lift the injured soldier onto a stretcher and prepare to lift him onto the helicopter, they come under heavy enemy fire. The Taliban has spotted them and is launching a fierce attack on their position. The PJs rapidly return fire, while trying to keep the injured soldier stable on the stretcher. Under intense pressure, the PJs are successful in fighting off the attack and lift the injured soldier onto the helicopter to be transported to a nearby hospital.

As the PJs fly back to their base, they discuss the challenges and adrenaline rush they experienced during the mission. One PJ reveals that the situation was the most intense he had faced in his entire career, highlighting the bravery and skill required for such operations. The episode ends with the PJs reflecting on the importance of their mission and the sacrifices they make to rescue soldiers in need.

Overall, the episode "Into the Hot Zone" offers an intense and exhilarating glimpse into the dangerous world of Combat Rescue, showcasing the bravery and skill of the PJs in carrying out their life-saving missions despite facing the ultimate risks. The episode highlights the dangers and challenges faced by the PJs and serves as a tribute to the skilled men and women who risk their lives every day to rescue those in need.