Staff Sergeant Christopher Piercecchi

As a U.S. Air Force Pararescueman (PJ), Staff Sergeant Chris Piercecchi was one of the two PJ’s who rescued the “Lone Survivor,” Marcus Luttrel, from the mountains of Afghanistan; a historic combat search and rescue mission. Sadly, Luttrel’s three brethren lost their lives that night and Chris went on to help in the their recovery from the mountain.

This experience was life changing and caused him to reflect on his past. Up to that point in his life Chris had been a PJ, a civilian paramedic and a firefighter. He had hundreds of rescues and numerous lives saved while serving both in combat and as a professional firefighter/paramedic, but some people he couldn’t save. That was often difficult to for him to deal with.

After his final deployment, Chris realized his deeply rooted dedication to help others and serve his community. Becoming a doctor would allow him to use his military training and life experience to more effectively help those in need. He soon completed a degree in philosophy and went on the medical school.

Chris aspires to become a surgeon and plans to return to the military as a reservist in order to train future PJ’s in trauma combat medicine. As a Tillman Military Scholar, Chris plans to contribute to his community, and continue serving those who serve.