Battlefield Airmen

Battlefield Airmen are extensively-trained, volunteer Airmen who provide unique air and space power expertise in a land combat environment, often far into hostile territory. This small, mostly enlisted group is essential to the Air Force mission, providing a key link between the air and ground. (U.S. Air Force photo)

Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
Pararescue Airmen mission ready for search, rescue

A pararescue jumper, equipped with night vision goggles, scans the Iraqi terrain during a combat search and rescue rehearsal mission Feb. 24 outside Balad Air Base, Iraq. He and his teammates use these rehearsal missions to stay proficient. They are assigned to the 64th Expeditionary Rescue Squadron. (U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Cecilio M. Ricardo Jr.)

Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
Battlefield Airmen

Battlefield Airmen typically carry magnetic compasses like the one here. This is a lensatic compass, which can be aimed a distant point to determine direction (north is 0 degrees, east is 90 degrees, south is 180 degrees, and west is 270 degrees).

Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
Warrior Airmen

DAYTON, Ohio - A portion of the Warrior Airmen exhibit on display in the Cold War Gallery at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. (U.S. Air Force photo)

Photo Details / Download Hi-Res

Battlefield Airmen Overview

Battlefield Airmen are extensively-trained, volunteer Airmen who provide unique air and space power expertise in a land combat environment, often far into hostile territory. This small, mostly enlisted group is essential to the Air Force mission, providing a key link between the air and ground.

Battlefield Airmen conduct unique ground operations that assist, control, enable and execute air and space power. These include surveillance, weather forecasting, airfield surveying, air traffic control, directing air strikes, airdrop marking, trauma care and personnel recovery (including downed aircrews). Different Battlefield Airmen specialties are sometimes combined into Special Tactics teams that work independently or with other U.S. conventional and unconventional forces. Always in high demand, they bring to bear potent air and space power that has an effect far beyond their small numbers.

Click on the following links to learn more about Battlefield Airmen specialties.

Combat Controllers and Special Tactics Officers
Tactical Air Control Parties
Pararescuemen and Combat Rescue Officers
Special Operations Weather Technicians and Officers

Click here to return to the Warrior Airmen Overview.

Screening at Entrance
All visitors may be screened with a metal detector upon entry. In addition all bags are subject to search and may be placed through an X-Ray machine. Weapons are not permitted including pocket knives and firearms, to include conceal carry and other dangerous weapons.
Prohibited Items
Prohibited Items:
- Firearms*
- Knives
- Box cutters
- Food and Soda Drinks
- Alcohol
- Coolers

* Firearms, to include conceal carry and other dangerous weapons, are specifically prohibited in Federal facilities in accordance with 18 USC §930 (c)

Permitted Items:
- Water bottles (clear, sealed bottle, up to 20 oz.)
- Purses
- Camera bags
- Diaper bags
- Strollers
- Service animals

Please note the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force is not responsible for items left in vehicles.
Click here for frequently asked questions regarding items permitted inside the museum.
Visitor Photography Notice
Notice: Visitors may be filmed, photographed or recorded by the U.S. Air Force for educational and promotional uses, including for posting on public websites and social media.
Individuals are permitted to take their own photographs or videos while touring the museum.

Battlefield Airmen

Pararescue Airmen mission ready for search, rescue

Battlefield Airmen

Warrior Airmen