Lieutenant earns historic slot as combat rescue officer

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Michael Hess
  • 48th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England (USAFENS) --  A Royal Air Force Lakenheath company grade officer’s career change signifies a new chapter in his young career and in Air Force history.

Second Lt. Anthony Lesmes, assigned to the 48th Munitions Squadron, was selected as one of the first combat rescue officers selected to cross train into the recently activated combat rescue officer career field.

“Combat controllers, Army Rangers, Navy SEALS all have had officers for years. It’s only recently that specifically-trained officers have been assigned to the Pararescue and the Search, Evasion, Resistance and Escape mission,” said Lieutenant Lesmes.

When the young lieutenant heard of the career opportunity, he sprang into action and organized the paperwork to file his career-changing package. However, the package was only a piece of the selection puzzle.

In March, the lieutenant returned from the second selection phase, an intense, six-day physical test at Moody Air Force Base, Ga.

“This is special ops training, there is no doubt about it,” said Lieutenant Lesmes referring to the rigors of the six-days.

He overcame the two-part selection process and begins the initial 10-week training at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas in Fall. He will receive the same initial training as his enlisted counterparts, which includes physical conditioning, leadership exercises and specialized training.

If he prevails through the aggressive training, then he will progress to the multiple advanced skills – basic airborne school, dive school, military freefall parachute school and survival training, following by the Combat Rescue Officer qualification course.

Two years of physical and mental anguish is well worth it, said Lietentant Lesmes, so, as their motto goes, “That others may live ... to return with honor.”

“That’s a really selfless motto,” said Lieutenant Lesmes. “I don’t think there can be anything more demanding, yet rewarding.”

The young lieutenant is off to work beside his enlisted brethren, live with them and ultimately lead men into combat.

The tasks may have seemed insurmountable, but supportive leaders helped the process.

“I am proud to support officers (and any Airman) that wish to try their hand at duties or career fields that stretch their intellect and physical capabilities,” said Col. David Lawson, 48th Maintenance Group commander.