In the heart of the elite Pararescue (also known as PJ) community, Ramón CZ” Colón-López is a name that resonates with respect and admiration. CZ’s journey is remarkable, with an illustrious career that has taken him from the frontlines as a Pararescue Jumper to the Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff ( The Joint Staff). In this exclusive interview with Tribalco Survival and Safety SystemsGroup Executive John Voinché (JV), we dive into CZ’s inspiring career, the unique camaraderie of the PJ community, and what the future holds as he prepares to embark on new adventures.
CZ’s response is a testament to life’s unpredictability when asked how he found his way into Pararescue. “I came into the service and didn’t know anything about Pararescue,” he admits. “And it was by chance that I ran into a PJ who ended up telling me about the career field. Once I got into the pipeline, I realized that would be my purpose in life.”
Reflecting on his journey, CZ acknowledges the unpredictability of life. “Life has a weird way of showing you what direction you need to go,” he says. “I never wanted to be a command chief; I never thought I would be the Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman. All I wanted to do was to be a PJ and retire. Eventually, things took turns, and here we are today.”
One of the hallmarks of the Pararescue community is its tight-knit camaraderie. CZ shares his insights, saying, “Well, it’s a brotherhood. We feed on each other; we learn from each other. We love to spend time with each other, and it doesn’t get any better than this group of common people that eventually does something great for society. And I think that’s the biggest part: the realization that we must be at our best for someone at their worst.”
As CZ prepares to transition into new phases of his life, he acknowledges that he won’t miss much about Pararescue because of the enduring bonds forged within the community. He does, however, express a sense of longing for the call to duty downrange. “But the career field is going to be in great hands,” he assures. “Just look at the young studs walking around here right now. They’re hungry and motivated and will continue that generational commitment.”
It’s impossible to overlook the influence of CZ’s wife, Janet, on his remarkable journey. CZ credits her for much of his success, emphasizing the importance of family support in any challenging career.
As CZ and Janet embrace new adventures, the Pararescue community and the entire nation will fondly remember the dedication, humility, and leadership he brought to his role. We wish CZ and Janet the best in their next chapter, and we eagerly anticipate the continued success of the PJ community.