News

Passing the PAS

  • Published
  • By Mauricio Campino
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  Dover Air Force Base, Delaware hosted recruiters from the 314th Air Force Recruiting Squadron and Delayed Enlistment Program members attempting the Physical Ability and Stamina test for acceptance into the U.S. Air Force Special Operations July 12, 2017. The Air Force Specialty Codes that make up special operations are:

Pararescue
Survival Evasion Resistance Escape Specialist
Combat Control
Tactical Air Control Party
Special Operations Weather Team
Explosive Ordnance Disposal

Candidates who successfully complete the PAS move straight to those tech schools after completing Air Force basic training.

Ryan Brodton, U.S. Air Force veteran with 10 years of service as a Combat Controller in Air Force Special Tactics, was present to help motivate the DEP members during testing and coach them on proper form and technique. Brodton currently works for T3i, a company that helps develop potential Air Force special operations candidates.

“We never had this in the past when I was going through…I didn’t know what to expect,” said Brodton.


The testing started out at the Dover YMCA pool where the DEP members attempted various swim tests including a 500 meter timed freestyle swim. To be accepted into special operations, each of the six job fields has a specific swim test that must be completed. “I would say the biggest challenge is the water portion. It’s a little bit harder to prepare for,” said Brodton.

The group then headed over to Dover AFB in 95 degree heat to finish the test which consists of pull-ups, push-ups, sit-ups and the 1.5 mile run. Testing is closely monitored and the rules allow only short, timed breaks between the different events. The test also has very specific rules on how to perform the exercises. Any repetitions not performed correctly will not be counted for score.

Brodton met with potential Air Force special operations candidates about once a week to help them prepare for the PAS test. He will continue to meet with them even after they passed to help them physically improve until they ship off to Air Force basic training and eventually to special operations training. “We’re not making things easier, we’re just training smarter,” said Brodton.