Ever wonder what it takes to fly into danger to save lives? In this episode, Nik Fialka sits down with Reese, an Air Force Combat Search and Rescue pilot, to reveal the high-stakes world of aerial rescues—where precision, preparation, and bravery turn chaos into calm. Hear heart-stopping stories of daring missions, high-altitude hoists, and the relentless training behind them. Get an inside look at the sacrifices and teamwork that define one of aviation’s most heroic roles. Ready to explore the bravery behind the green feet? Tune in and be inspired by these extraordinary tales!

 

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE

• Why mastering high-altitude, high-risk maneuvers is crucial for every rescue pilot

• How combat search and rescue missions redefine the meaning of "no-fail" operations

• What it takes to coordinate aerial refueling and rescue missions in the world’s harshest environments

• The untold stories of teamwork and ingenuity behind civilian and combat rescue missions

• How situational awareness and clear communication transform chaos into successful rescues

• The meaning behind the green feet: A symbol of unity and commitment in rescue missions

 

RESOURCES/LINKS MENTIONED

• Harborview Medical Center in Seattle | UW Medicine

• Air Force ROTC

• Behind Enemy Lines (2001) 

• The Guardian (2006)

• Fill a Bucket by  Carol McCloud and Katherine Martin | Hardcover and Paperback

• Russell Wilson

• Inside Combat Rescue - National Geographic Channel

 

 

ABOUT REESE FUTRELL

Reese Futrell is a U.S. Air Force HH-60 Combat Search and Rescue pilot with over 1,900 flight hours, including 130+ in combat. As an Aircraft Commander and instructor, he excels in high-stakes missions like aerial refueling, low-level flight, mountainous rescues, and Alternate Insertion/Extraction techniques. A graduate of Central Washington University, Reese is also a Civil Air Patrol pilot and STEM speaker dedicated to inspiring the next generation of aviators. As a husband and father of two, he’s passionate about advancing his aviation career while sharing his love of flight with others.

 

 

CONNECT WITH REESE 

• LinkedIn: Reese Futrell

 

 

CONNECT WITH US

Are you ready to take your preparation to the next level? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Use the promo code “R4P” and save 10% on all our services. Check us out at www.spitfireelite.com!

 

If you want to recommend someone to be a guest on the show, email Nik at podcast@spitfireelite.com, and if you need a professional pilot resume, go to www.spitfireelite.com/podcast/ for FREE templates!

 

 

SPONSOR

Are you a pilot just coming out of the military and looking for the perfect second home for your family? Look no further! Reach out to Marty and his team by visiting www.tridenthomeloans.com to get the best VA loans available anywhere in the US.

If you’re a professional pilot looking for a great financial planning partner for your retirement, tax, and investment, go to www.tpope.ceterainvestors.com/contact or call ‭704-717-8900 x120‬ to schedule a consultation appointment with Timothy P. Pope, CFP®.

Be ready for takeoff anytime with 3D-stretch, stain-repellent, and wrinkle-free aviation uniforms by Flight Uniforms. Just go to www.flightuniform.com and type the code SPITFIREPOD20 to get a special 20% discount on your first order.