AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy -- In preparation for the Joint Airborne Air Transportability training quickly approaching, Tech. Sgt. Robert, a pararescue team leader from the 57th Rescue Squadron, performed jump training to stay current on his training.
With thirteen years of PJ experience and more than 250 jumps under his belt, Robert approached this jump like the rest. As his altitude approached 4,000 feet, Robert deployed his main parachute and, had things gone as planned, he would be safely on the ground a short time later.
This jump went differently than the rest of Robert’s previous jumps. His main parachute failing to deploy correctly meant he was still quickly approaching the ground.
“This is why we are constantly preparing for combat readiness and preventing lapses in training,” said Robert.
Remaining calm in an emergency, Robert was able to deploy his reserve parachute and was safely under a canopy around 2,000 feet above the ground.
Crisis averted and back on his feet, Robert’s life had been saved by his reserve parachute and ultimately, by the precise work done by aircrew flight equipment.
“I appreciate AFE for saving my life,” Robert said. More specifically, Tech. Sgt. Daniel Quintana, 57th Rescue Squadron Parachute NCOIC, who packed the reserve parachute.
A parachute rigger for ten years, Quintana said he was only doing his job and that Tech. Sgt. Robert deserved all the credit for keeping his composure.
Quintana earned his second save when Robert landed safely on the ground. Another life saved.
This was the second time a reserve parachute packed by Quintana saved a life. Getting Airmen to the ground safely isn’t his only motivation, Quintana said.
“I’m not just packing for them,” said Quintana. “I’m packing for their families.”