Never Quit

Jimmy Settle's "Never Quit" offers readers an unflinching look into the world of Air Force Pararescue, one of the military's most elite and challenging special operations forces. The memoir chronicles Settle's journey from his formative years in Alaska through his intense training as a PJ—short for Pararescueman or Parajumper—and into his harrowing deployments in Afghanistan. The narrative provides both the personal story of one man's determination and a broader window into a specialized community that operates under the motto "That Others May Live."

The book opens with Settle's Alaskan upbringing, establishing the foundation for his later career. Growing up in the challenging wilderness of America's northern frontier, he developed the resilience and outdoor skills that would prove invaluable in his military service. These early chapters illustrate how his environment shaped his character and prepared him for the physical and mental demands of Pararescue. The Alaskan backdrop is not merely scenic detail but integral to understanding the person who would later face combat situations with remarkable composure.

A significant portion of the memoir focuses on the grueling training pipeline required to become a PJ. Pararescue training is notoriously difficult, with a high attrition rate that reflects the extraordinary demands placed on these airmen. Settle walks readers through the various phases of his preparation, from initial selection through dive school, jump school, and advanced medical training. His account captures the intensity of the process without glorifying the suffering, instead presenting it as a necessary crucible that forges the skills and mindset required for the mission ahead.

The medical aspect of Pararescue receives considerable attention throughout the narrative. Unlike other special operations forces that focus primarily on combat, PJs are trained as combat medics capable of providing lifesaving care in the most hostile environments imaginable. Settle's descriptions of both training scenarios and real-world medical emergencies demonstrate the dual nature of the role—warrior and healer combined. This unique combination sets Pararescue apart within the special operations community and creates situations where split-second decisions carry life-or-death consequences.

When the narrative shifts to Afghanistan, the book takes on added weight and urgency. Settle recounts multiple missions where his team was called upon to rescue wounded soldiers, often under enemy fire. These combat rescues form the emotional core of the memoir, presenting situations where the Pararescue motto becomes literal reality. The accounts of helicopter insertions into hot landing zones, medical treatment performed while under attack, and the coordination required to extract casualties provide vivid illustrations of modern combat operations.

One of the memoir's strengths lies in its portrayal of the broader team dynamics. While Settle is the primary voice, he consistently acknowledges the contributions of fellow PJs, pilots, and other special operations personnel. The book makes clear that successful rescue operations depend on seamless coordination among multiple specialists, each performing their role with precision. This team-focused perspective prevents the narrative from becoming a simple tale of individual heroism and instead presents a more accurate picture of how elite units function.

The writing style remains straightforward and accessible throughout. Settle avoids excessive military jargon while still conveying the technical realities of his work. When specialized terms or procedures are necessary, they're explained sufficiently for civilian readers to follow along. The pacing moves effectively between reflective moments and action sequences, maintaining reader engagement without resorting to artificial dramatic embellishment.

The psychological toll of such intense experiences receives honest treatment as well. Settle addresses the impact of repeated combat deployments, the weight of life-and-death decisions, and the challenge of processing traumatic events. These reflections add depth to the narrative, moving beyond mere action sequences to explore what it means to sustain such a demanding career over time.

"Never Quit" serves multiple purposes effectively. For those interested in military special operations, it provides authentic insight into a lesser-known community within that world. For readers drawn to survival and rescue stories, it delivers genuine accounts of both wilderness and combat scenarios. For anyone interested in stories of determination and service, Settle's journey from Alaska to Afghanistan offers substantial material. The memoir stands as both a personal testament and a tribute to the Pararescue community, presenting their work with the respect and detail it deserves while remaining accessible to general audiences.