Falling annually on August 16, and this year on a Saturday, is National Airborne Day, a day to honor the military’s airborne divisions of the Armed Forces. Just two weeks ago, Senate Resolution 361 designated August 16, 2025, as National Airborne Day.
On August 16, 1940, the first official Army parachute jump occurred at Fort Benning, Georgia, with 48 volunteer members of the U.S. Army Parachute Test Platoon participating. The successful jump validated the innovative concept of inserting U.S. ground combat forces behind a battle line by parachute beginning in World War II. These sky soldiers represent some of the most prestigious and expertly trained forces in the United States Army.
After the first jump, a large force of more than 100,000 paratroopers was formed and assigned to the 11th 13th, 17th, 82nd, and 101st Airborne Divisions, which fought in every theater during the War, according to the Department of Defense. Parachute assaults were a key to the U.S. Military’s success in the battles for Sicily, Salerno, and D-Day. During the operation in Holland in September 1944, the airborne forces secured all of their objectives.
Building on the success of the airborne divisions in WWII, the United States military continued to develop this means of enveloping the enemy from above. This approach grew to include Ranger and Special Forces units in the Army, and airborne organizations in the Air Force, Marine Corps, and Navy. Airborne forces have made combat jumps in Korea, Vietnam, Grenada, Panama, Afghanistan, and Iraq.
In 2002, President George W. Bush proclaimed August 16 to be National Airborne Day, stating: “Airborne combat continues to be driven by the bravery and daring spirit of sky Soldiers. Often called into action with little notice, these forces have earned an enduring reputation for dedication, excellence, and honor. As we face the challenges of a new era, I encourage all people to recognize the contributions of these courageous Soldiers to our Nation and the world.”
Read the full text of Proclamation 7582 issued and signed by Bush on August 14, 2002.
