Today we honor the division of the Armed Forces that is the Airborne Division with #NationalAirborneDay!
We celebrate it on this day, because back in August 16, 1940, the first official Army parachute jump at Ft. Benning, Georgia, was successful and validated the concept of inserting U.S. ground combat forces behind a battle line by parachute.
Currently, two airborne divisions operate, The 82nd Airborne Division out of Ft. Bragg, which began as an infantry division. They have the nickname All American, since the soldiers came all across the country, and several were immigrants. The second active airborne division is the 101st Airborne Division, known as the Screaming Eagles, who currently make their home at Ft. Campbell, Kentucky. The famed HBO series Band Of Brothers follows the story of 2nd Battalion, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment of the 101st Airborne Division, better known as Easy Company, who were crucial on D-Day in the Brecourt Manor Assault, and later in the war during the Battle Of The Bulge as they held the line in Bastogne.
Both units have served around the world in combat, peacekeeping, and humanitarian missions.
Let's all celebrate the bravery and resolve of one of the most infamous parts of our military on National Airborne Day!
Currahee!!