What do you think when you see a Soldier with Airborne wings?

2015-07-18T21:35:09-04:00

I once had a commander say, "I always know I can trust a paratrooper, he volunteered twice to get here. Once to join, and then a second time to jump".

What do you think when you see a pair of Airborne wing on a Soldier? Is it a mark of someone who goes the extra mile? Or just some additional flair?

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Jul 18 at 2015 9:37 PM

2015-07-18T21:37:27-04:00

I have lots of respect for anyone who willingly jumps out of a perfectly good airplane. It takes lots of guys.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 18 at 2015 9:38 PM

2015-07-18T21:38:39-04:00

As a former paratrooper myself, I can say with full confidence that there is no group of people I've served with since that ever came close to measuring up. It's a different bond. People that have never worn the 82nd or 173rd patch on their shoulder will never understand. A paratrooper is full of themselves, and they have a right to be. They will go father, and fight harder, and lay down their life for a friend faster than any other person you will meet. It's not just a qualification, it's a mindset. Airborne. All the way. H-Minus!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 18 at 2015 9:39 PM

2015-07-18T21:39:19-04:00

I like to see how the badge affects them. Does it add pride or arrogance?

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 18 at 2015 9:49 PM

2015-07-18T21:49:30-04:00

I praise them for their courage at first for jumping out of a perfectly tin can and then I assumed that they should be kind of squared away. I'm not always right though.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 18 at 2015 9:51 PM

2015-07-18T21:51:19-04:00

Airborne wings does not make the Soldier. Many Soldiers that volunteer for jump school think all they're going to do is jump, recover their chutes, then go home or back to their units. Most of them don't know they will often times have carry-on missions that keep them awake; exhausted, wet, cold, and hungry. I believe there are more Soldiers that want to stop jump status than those that want to keep it. That said, Soldiers that have the desire to jump into battle are definitely worthy of the title Paratrooper. I would trust those men and women that go the extra mile, because they often do it without question, without asking, "Are we there yet? When can we sleep? When can we eat? When can we set up tents? When can we wash up? So to answer your question, for some it is nothing more than being in the proper uniform, simply because that Soldier is in an airborne unit. For the brave men and women that do it without hesitation, it's a symbol of distinction that says " You can sleep tonight worry free."

Response by LTC Reginald Brown made Jul 18 at 2015 10:06 PM

2015-07-18T22:06:03-04:00

We should all strive to be as well trained as possible ready to succeed in any mission; airborne, air assault, CBR, maintenance, HR, finance - it all makes us better leaders, soldiers, and citizens.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 18 at 2015 10:11 PM

2015-07-18T22:11:23-04:00

If done right, airborne wings is more than just a badge or another school on your ERB/ORB. It is a way of life. It is a mentality. I had a staff sergeant who went from E1 to E6 as airborne then being assigned to a leg unit after going to civil affairs explain it to me this way during one of our talks-- Airborne soldiers are better because they have to go through one more level of vetting. A soldier who joins is usually better than an average civilian. A soldier who goes airborne is usually better than the average soldier. An airborne soldier who goes Ranger is usually better than the average airborne soldier. So on and so forth.

Response by SN Victoria Glover made Jul 18 at 2015 10:12 PM

2015-07-18T22:12:05-04:00

Braver than I am to want to jump from planes. It doesn't matter which branch or specialty we have each person who served or are serving are brave to sign up to into a fight and sacrifice for our country, family and friends. I hold all in high esteem.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Jul 18 at 2015 10:14 PM

2015-07-18T22:14:21-04:00

I know he'll want to talk about it.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 18 at 2015 11:01 PM

2015-07-18T23:01:25-04:00

PRIDE!!!
I was lucky and went to Jump School right out of OCS. Thank goodness I was in physical shape and the harassment level was already high. However, I thought I had heard it all...wrong...the instructors had a new "language", new techniques of "hazing", and for a brand new 2LT, wellll.
Airborne is a special breed of soldier. Proud of the accomplishment they obtained. Proud of their fellow airborne.
All the Way!!
De Oppresso Liber.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 18 at 2015 11:06 PM

2015-07-18T23:06:49-04:00

They graduated from Airborne school.

Response by SGT Jeremiah B. made Jul 18 at 2015 11:11 PM

2015-07-18T23:11:51-04:00

My first tour, they meant very little. I was surrounded by them as a grunt. My second, I think I might have been the only guy in the entire battalion that had them. That's what happens when you reclass to armor.

In any case, "Hell Yeah! Airborne leads the way!" but I might be biased. haha

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 18 at 2015 11:14 PM

2015-07-18T23:14:00-04:00

Being at 101st and seeing guys with it is just like the Air Assault wings (including mine) if you don't actually do it what is the big deal.

Response by MAJ Keith FitzPatrick, CPIM, CSCP made Jul 18 at 2015 11:16 PM

2015-07-18T23:16:37-04:00

Unless they are in an airborne unit, if they have a basic badge only think they jumped out of a plane 5 times.

Response by GySgt John O'Donnell made Jul 18 at 2015 11:56 PM

2015-07-18T23:56:03-04:00

Being an "Gold Wing" Airborne Marine, there is pride in the individual accomplishment. But I/we realize it's just a way to "get to work" so that we can do my job on the battlefield, and is no more special then how my fellow Marines get to the fight whether Amphibious Assault vehicles, helicopters, trucks, or a good old fashion "straight leg" hike. The Eagle, Globe, and Anchor is the most important achievement and contribution to bring about success in any mission assigned. One Team, One Fight!

Response by SFC Nikhil Kumra made Jul 18 at 2015 11:56 PM

2015-07-18T23:56:18-04:00

It's like people who do crossfit. They only talk about cross fit.

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Jul 19 at 2015 12:12 AM

2015-07-19T00:12:40-04:00

They are one of a number of elite troops that stand taller than the crowd. Not as many make the cut as make the attempt.

Response by SPC Oz Lockheart made Jul 19 at 2015 4:11 AM

2015-07-19T04:11:15-04:00

Motherfuckers that have wings but no knees??

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 19 at 2015 7:14 AM

2015-07-19T07:14:32-04:00

It is a very common school. I really don't think Airborne teaches you to be a better soldier. It does give you another skill.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 19 at 2015 9:53 AM

2015-07-19T09:53:57-04:00

If you go to Airborne school and serve in an Airborne unit it is not just additional flair. It is an accomplishment to be proud of. Let's face it, not everyone will jump out of an airplane with 100 lbs plus of gear. The men I served with in the Airborne were some very motivated men that always gave their best and never want to lose at anything. I still keep in touch with those men even after getting out of the military. Airborne All The Way!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 19 at 2015 9:56 AM

2015-07-19T09:56:27-04:00

The wings don't make the Soldier. The Soldier makes the wings. But then, I have never had the inclination to jump out of an aircraft that has the capability of landing. But honestly, Id be more impressed with someone who has a mustard stain on their wings.

Response by SSG Sean Gallagher made Jul 19 at 2015 11:50 AM

2015-07-19T11:50:42-04:00

http://www.eng.auburn.edu/~josepbe/ParatroopersFaith/faith.htm

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Jul 19 at 2015 1:14 PM

2015-07-19T13:14:40-04:00

1LT Christopher Farnsworth, the Airborne Soldiers I worked with were generally first class and unusually reliable. But, an Airborne dud is a real nuisance to attempt to deal with!

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 19 at 2015 1:51 PM

2015-07-19T13:51:35-04:00

The soldiers I have had that have their wings have all been trouble makers. The last one just got in trouble this week for publuc intox, putting hands on a female soldier, then passed out while cooking spaghetti at 0100 in the morning. Almost burned down the Barracks. So I haven't had a good experience with them.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 19 at 2015 2:50 PM

2015-07-19T14:50:39-04:00

I think it depends of the individuals perspective of it, I volunteered to become airborne soldiers, during my life time with 82nd, I have learned a lot, and dislike a lot but definitely the standards are forces there more then where I am right now, which fort Riley. I made so changes here to better soldiers, some leaders didn't like it but I always do the right thing .. So yes I am ful of myself

Response by SGT Edward Thomas made Jul 19 at 2015 3:01 PM

2015-07-19T15:01:26-04:00

As a paratrooper who never wore the 82d patch (173rd wasn't in existence during my time) I did wear the Special Forces psych and I see all people with the parachutist badge as a cut above regardless of what patch they wear.

Response by MAJ Keira Brennan made Jul 19 at 2015 3:43 PM

2015-07-19T15:43:01-04:00

I think COOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOL! We AIRBORNE got to stick together.

Response by Rick Wiseman made Jul 19 at 2015 4:16 PM

2015-07-19T16:16:55-04:00

I am a PROUD Veteran AIRBORNE MP, something not too many people see or know even exists. There is nothing like the AIRBORNE Soldier's will to bring Death and Destruction to your door step. We would go to the end of the Earth and to hell and back if necessary to achieve our objective. If you were in our sights you were screwed. There's nothing like an AIRBORNE Soldier anywhere! AIRBORNE, ALL THE WAY!!!!

Response by SGT Douglas Blackwood made Jul 19 at 2015 4:45 PM

2015-07-19T16:45:33-04:00

The same could be said for any military combat specialty. I have had the honor of serving with and in support of many combat specialties across three services. I can see no measurable difference in the commitment, honor, or sacrifice of those individuals. Only in the execution of their skills is where the differences are relevant. Such attitudes of superiority serve only to fracture the basis of our commitment to service. By all means take pride in your specialty but do not belittle those who chose a different specialty. Honor above all else. And remember, you are not airborne without the aircraft.

Response by Sgt Ken Prescott made Jul 19 at 2015 9:16 PM

2015-07-19T21:16:28-04:00

I simply fail to understand the appeal of jumping out of a perfectly good airplane.

Response by LTC Bink Romanick made Jul 19 at 2015 10:18 PM

2015-07-19T22:18:38-04:00

That they have met the standard in a tough course.

Response by 2LT Scott Armstrong made Jul 20 at 2015 12:53 AM

2015-07-20T00:53:03-04:00

I've always viewed it as someone who is willing to go the extra mile under tough conditions. Airborne is a combination of competence and cockiness that is valuable under fire.

Response by SSG Robert Webster made Jul 20 at 2015 12:18 PM

2015-07-20T12:18:45-04:00

Are they Airborne or are they a Paratrooper?

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 20 at 2015 1:28 PM

2015-07-20T13:28:36-04:00

'There is a paratrooper' All the Way ! .... it is a fundamental part of a being a Soldier, to have that kind of pride, discipline, and confidence, that comes from the feeling of cadences, Soldiering, and esprit de corps always resonating in our professional consciousness. "Eighty Second patch on my shoulder...."

Response by COL Michael Freeman made Jul 20 at 2015 1:44 PM

2015-07-20T13:44:06-04:00

I say, hey, there's a soldier that went to Airborne School. Just like when I see Air Assault wings, the Pathfinder badge and others that show the soldier attended a school. I respect the fact that these schools are above and beyond the basic requirements and commend the soldier’s effort. Anyone who intends to serve in an Airborne unit should attend the school. On the other hand, if there is little or no likelihood of ever serving in an Airborne unit, attending the school is a waste of taxpayer money.

Response by SSG John Erny made Jul 20 at 2015 1:50 PM

2015-07-20T13:50:25-04:00

ABATW

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made Jul 20 at 2015 3:30 PM

2015-07-20T15:30:51-04:00

I think that they volunteered and there are a lot at the airborne divisions that are high speed but have met a lot of low drag airborne s also. We are all legs in the end! we all do the same job, just different ways of getting there!

Response by Capt Brandon Charters made Jul 20 at 2015 4:22 PM

2015-07-20T16:22:07-04:00

It tells me that the warrior behind the wings joined a historically elite force of Soldiers who jump out of perfectly good airplanes and rain down freedom on those below. Big respect.

Response by SGT Chip Hutchings made Jul 20 at 2015 4:47 PM

2015-07-20T16:47:20-04:00

I think there is a huge difference between someone with jump wings and a paratrooper. Jumping out of a plane is just part of what makes a soldier a paratrooper. You can pin wings on a slug and it will not change anything they are still a slug.

Response by SSG Malcolm "Chris" Canada made Jul 20 at 2015 11:21 PM

2015-07-20T23:21:52-04:00

When I was still active, everyone had them. Now when I see them anywhere I light up like a Christmas tree! Couldn't be more proud to have earned them.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 21 at 2015 7:12 PM

2015-07-21T19:12:02-04:00

One of the worst Soldiers I have ever encountered had wings. Some of the finest NCOs/Soldiers I have ever served with did not. The wings do not make the man (or woman), the man makes the wings.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 21 at 2015 7:45 PM

2015-07-21T19:45:33-04:00

I see both side of the coin here. I have known great soldiers that had wings, and dirtbag soldiers that didn't. But I have also seen just as many dirtbag soldiers with them, and stellar soldiers without.

Response by SPC Thomas Johnson made Jul 23 at 2015 10:18 AM

2015-07-23T10:18:09-04:00

Everyone man and woman who puts on the uniform deserves respect for what they do for their country. Paratroopers bring it a bit further in a different way by not only conquering one of man's oldest fears, but using it as a strategic advantage.

Got my Blood Wings in 2002 and getting my Israeli jump wings is still one of my favourite stories!

"People ask me all the time why I would jump out of a perfectly good airplane. I respond that I would never jump out of a perfectly good airplane; these are military aircraft!"

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2015 3:07 PM

2015-07-26T15:07:13-04:00

I see a Soldier that has an additional skill. Is a way to build rapport with fellow paratroopers from different countries. Being part of the "Brotherhood of the Silk" is something that only a paratrooper can experience.

Response by SN Greg Wright made Jul 26 at 2015 4:53 PM

2015-07-26T16:53:04-04:00

I think 'there's another servicemember'.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 2 at 2015 6:49 PM

2015-08-02T18:49:19-04:00

If I wanted to go skydiving I would do it on vacation. Unless you are in SF or Regiment you have never used this skill in actual combat and stand a 99.999% chance of leaving the service still not having used this skill in combat. Wings don't make you run faster, lead any better, or shoot any straighter than any other Soldier in the Army. If you got them, good for you, but don't let them blow your ego out of proportion.

Response by SPC George Rudenko made Aug 8 at 2015 1:44 AM

2015-08-08T01:44:36-04:00

I may give credit to the wings. But, have they shown that consistent devotion>?

Response by LCDR Jeffery Dixon made Aug 27 at 2015 1:29 PM

2015-08-27T13:29:25-04:00

Coolness!

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2015 1:35 PM

2015-08-27T13:35:41-04:00

I grew up the son of a Paratrooper...One of the greatest honors of my life was serving alongside his old unit in Afghanistan.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Aug 27 at 2015 4:18 PM

2015-08-27T16:18:08-04:00

If I need someone to fall out of a plane, I'll keep an eye out for wings. Other than that, it's pretty meaningless to me...

Response by PFC Tuan Trang made Aug 27 at 2015 9:15 PM

2015-08-27T21:15:05-04:00

Someone with commitment and no fear of height.

Response by SFC Walter Mack made Aug 27 at 2015 9:15 PM

2015-08-27T21:15:16-04:00

I think they went to airborne school. Kudos, but it doesn't make you special. Being awesome makes you special, and I'll bet airborne units have a similar ratio of heroes to dirt bags as that of a regular unit.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2015 9:53 AM

2015-12-30T09:53:43-05:00

I would not have joined the Army without Airborne School in my contract. I fought and fought as a civilian to get it. I got it and did it. I wanted to be a paratrooper in the 82nd, it's the whole reason I joined the Army. It's a brotherhood and a special group.

Response by SPC Rick Wiseman made Mar 21 at 2016 2:29 AM

2016-03-21T02:29:42-04:00

I was in one of 3 AIRBORNE Military Police Units. We had a since of pride, accomplishment and by far the most determination to complete the task at hand. ALL THE WAY!

Response by SPC Brad Pratt made Oct 15 at 2016 6:24 PM

2016-10-15T18:24:29-04:00

Air Assault SGT's loved to bust on the 82nd soldiers when they'd come to Ft. Campbell for school. 82% will not work here! We require one hundred and one percent! Air Assault!

Response by CW3 Matt Hutchason made Oct 15 at 2016 10:53 PM

2016-10-15T22:53:39-04:00

None of the above. Just as serving in the military, in and of itself, doesn't qualify someone to be president, jump wings aren't an indicator of a persons character. I spent the better part of my 10 year Army career in the 82nd, and I ran across several duds. Don't matter where you go, the duds are always there. When I see Airborne wings, I think no more or no less of the individual. Wings alone do not a standup guy make.

Response by SSG James Dennis made Oct 29 at 2016 11:12 PM

2016-10-29T23:12:40-04:00

I see a fellow paratrooper, a professional.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 12 at 2016 9:10 AM

2016-11-12T09:10:39-05:00

Nothing, the hardest part of Airborne is getting a slot.

Response by SGT Drew Clark made Jan 27 at 2017 1:01 AM

2017-01-27T01:01:51-05:00

Being Airborne, is some High-Speed Shit. Really, you jump out of airplanes, "Hell Yeah" cause somebody gotta do it!

Response by SPC Saundra Teater made Feb 24 at 2017 11:27 PM

2017-02-24T23:27:39-05:00

I've had the pleasure of serving with some paratroopers and I think there is two things that stands out. One, they are way more brave than me. And two, they are way more crazier than me. I served in Berlin when the wall came down and desert storm. I was part of USCOB. I served in Frankfurt before that. I loved listening to those who actually served during combat. They are amazing, brave soldiers who risk it all to jump out of planes to slowly drift down and get shot at. They are completely nuts. They have a different way of looking at things. They used to tease me about me being chairborne. I decided to go with that. I'm fine being chairborne. I'm not jumping out of a plane. No one is shooting at me. My fear of heights is not an issue, and I live a little longer. My COL was part of them. He would have meetings with some of them in USCOB. as they walked by admin area they would yell out And How Are Our Chairborne Doing? I would just push my office chair on wheels hard enough to come out in front of them and gleefully tell them Still Living and Breathing, thank you much. I have been so lucky that every place I served, my smart ass mouth was appreciated. Never disrespectful. But I was allowed to give honest answers, and it was because most of our leaders there were from that division. They were the ones that taught me that if you find the funny, you can survive anything. One told me about serving in Korea or Vietnam and while out on patrol, he fell asleep. He woke up and he saw a squad of enemy walking past. He knew everyone was dead if he sounded alarm so he stayed still. And one of the enemy stopped in front. He swore he was seen and soon to die. But the other soldier just undid his pants and took a piss on him. And he had to just lay there and do nothing. And wear that uniform for about a week more.

Response by CPT Larry Hudson made Feb 27 at 2017 5:35 PM

2017-02-27T17:35:50-05:00

Any specialty recognition a soldier wears, whether jump or aviation wing, or combat badge deserves respect from fellow soldiers who might be inspired to go the extra mile to become the best they can be.

Response by Sgt William Margeson made Feb 28 at 2017 5:05 PM

2017-02-28T17:05:13-05:00

Unless accompanied by other ribbons, as to what where, when, a ticket puncher, with more balls than brains

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Feb 28 at 2017 5:10 PM

2017-02-28T17:10:53-05:00

Grandpa always wondered why a feller would jump out of a perfectly good airplane! He always figgered a wing must be loose, or an engine ready to fall off that made them jump?

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Feb 28 at 2017 5:20 PM

2017-02-28T17:20:52-05:00

It does remind me of an old story bout a trooper at the door waiting for the green light and when it came on he didn't jump. No matter what the Jumpmaster screamed at him or how hard he pushed he couldn't get that trooper out the door. He finally screamed at him that if he didn't jump the Jumpmaster was going to stick his boot up his ass. I asked the trooper did you jump then? "Just a little" he said. Yeah I know its an old joke but it works! ha ha

Response by LTC Marc King made Feb 28 at 2017 6:08 PM

2017-02-28T18:08:30-05:00

What would motivate them to voluntarily leave a perfectly sound airplane at a high altitude.

Response by SPC Rob Lewis made Feb 28 at 2017 6:30 PM

2017-02-28T18:30:23-05:00

I see a brother.

Response by MSG Johnathan Mathes made Feb 28 at 2017 11:27 PM

2017-02-28T23:27:34-05:00

Ok here is my thought.. to the outside world paratroopers are full of themselves... but living the lifestyle is different.. we go further and farther.. its not cause we have to but we want to... i worked in both worlds. As a leg and as a paratrooper.. legs... but sgt why . I cant i wont but why... paratroopers just do cause we know the next guy depends on us.. and nothing like jumping and going on a follow on mission.... its a totally different breed... you really want to know join the 173rd airborne in vincenza..italy.. start off your day running up and down mountains.. every soldier any day

Response by SSG John Jensen made Mar 1 at 2017 12:38 AM

2017-03-01T00:38:17-05:00

on the international news - some country in Africa (I forget which one) behind the president is a soldier in dress uniform and above his medals are US Army Jump Wings

Response by PVT Mark Brown made Jan 24 at 2018 11:17 AM

2018-01-24T11:17:51-05:00

One answer does not fit all situations. I think Jump Qualified individuals have achieved another step in their military career. Jump school requires extra effort, if you don't put out you are put out. I was section chief in Korea and several guys in my unit, one of which wore wings. This person went home on leave and that was the last anyone saw of him. Airborne all the way - all the way to Canada. This was in 1968. But generally speaking I have great respect for Airborne folks especially if that qualification is taken further, i.e. Ranger, S.F, etc.

Response by SGT Dave Tracy made Jan 24 at 2018 11:38 AM

2018-01-24T11:38:30-05:00

What do I think? "I regret not getting Airborne in my contract."

Response by PO3 Pamela Priscilla Gordy made Jan 24 at 2018 1:34 PM

2018-01-24T13:34:12-05:00

Such an honor. All 3 of my sons are in the Army. My oldest recently received his wings. We are so proud of him. A great achievement.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 24 at 2018 3:01 PM

2018-01-24T15:01:06-05:00

CPT Christopher F. I was reminded at Airborne school that falling from planes is just another way to get the to enemy and kill them. It is another skill that they possess to get there and do our job.

Sidenote: Sounds like your commander was a leg.

Response by SPC Robert Sternberg made Feb 10 at 2018 1:49 AM

2018-02-10T01:49:31-05:00

I was a paratrooper with the 82nd at fort Bragg NC

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2018 2:58 AM

2018-02-10T02:58:36-05:00

What do you expect form someone who, "Jumps out of a Perfectly good aircraft."
Picture of me over God's country. Salute!

Response by LTC John Griscom made Feb 10 at 2018 2:38 PM

2018-02-10T14:38:27-05:00

Saw a colonel interrupt and argument between two soldiers debating airborne vs air assault. His comment was that why brag about the way you to get to work on the ground as Infantry.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2018 2:41 PM

2018-02-10T14:41:44-05:00

It's a qualification, just like any other one. Personally, I think Airborne is outdated. Everyone volunteers more than once in the Army, you join, you volunteer to take on responsibility and be an NCO, you volunteer to go to AASLT, EOLC, RSLC, any school besides NCOPDS. It doesn't make anyone better because they participate in an outdated tactic that has been used once conventionally in the past 30 years - into a secure DZ at that.
Plus there's the obscene amount of soldiers that get their 5 jumps and literally never jump again, why did we bother sending them to the school if they are put into a mechanized unit, or that MOS would never jump in an invasion. We waste tons of money on that, but can't send Scouts to RSLC because the unit doesn't have money?
Then there's the brainwashing where the Airborne believes they're automatically better than everyone. You've got an 85% death expectancy upon entry to combat, yet they are told that they're better and everyone else are "legs". Well those "legs" will certainly be your best friend when that 120mm smoothbore saves their ass in downtown "insert next war capitol city here".

Response by MSG John Duchesneau made Feb 15 at 2018 9:35 PM

2018-02-15T21:35:33-05:00

I think he went jump school.

Response by MAJ Raúl Rovira made Mar 11 at 2018 9:50 PM

2018-03-11T21:50:23-04:00

What I see is that we have a common experience. It is often the start of a 6-pack conversation.

Response by SPC Brent Melton made Mar 11 at 2018 11:47 PM

2018-03-11T23:47:46-04:00

That they've completed a bunch of stateside training...unless they have the mustard stain.

Response by SFC Greg Bruorton made Mar 12 at 2018 12:07 AM

2018-03-12T00:07:28-04:00

A Paratrooper's Confession
by
Greg Bruorton

Long before I joined the United States Army, I knew the paratrooper symbolized the "soldier's soldier" and the elite of the Army. I had long respected and admired the man who wore the spit-shined jump boots and sported the silver wings of the paratrooper, but that had been the extent of it. Joining the Army in 1960 seemed to be the right thing to do because there was more to do in life than making a living just in one place.

Upon completing four years of service in 1964 I was assigned to Fort Bragg, North Carolina; the "Home of the Airborne." Because of my job specialty, I was assigned to a Signal outfit and during the subsequent four years I was continuously exposed to the Airborne way of life but did not avail myself of the opportunity to join this group. I had frequently imagined how the descent of a jump and the pride of being part of the elite would feel. I can truthfully say that being frightened was not the reason for my delaying Airborne school attendance. I had done many things in my boyhood and teen years that I consider just as dangerous and exhilarating as jumping out of a perfectly good airplane.

After two tours in the Dominican Republic (with Fort Bragg being the home base) and a tour in Germany and Vietnam, I again returned and was assigned to an Airborne unit slot. Shortly after my return, however, my mother passed away and I took emergency leave to attend her funeral.

Later, while back at my job, I sensed a change of heart, but was unable to ascertain why. In June 1973 I attended Basic Airborne School at Fort Bragg, hoping to earn my wings.
The revelation came to me on the day that my jump wings were pinned to my chest, eleven months after my mother=s passing. I then knew the real reason why I had refrained from becoming a paratrooper until now; it had been my mother!

First, I want to clarify--my mother had never indicated a concerned, deep fear for me on whatever tasks I did while in the Army, and second, she had never conveyed anything to me other than a mother=s natural, "Please be careful" attitude. In short, I was never hassled by her in connection with my duties. I can only narrow it down to this: I did not want to cause any additional or excessive worry where she would always be uncertain as to my well-being.

Had I not brought enough anxiety to her during my younger years? Moreover, letters to each other were the primary means of our communication, for my visits home averaged once every two to three years. I felt that she would constantly be on an edge, worrying about whether I had made a safe jump or not.

All along, I had thought the subtle pressures from my commander and peers were the reason why I finally decided to attend jump school. Ironically, and sad to say, I was actually waiting for the time when Mom would not have to worry about me again.

Response by SGT Lou Meza made Mar 12 at 2018 12:58 PM

2018-03-12T12:58:03-04:00

I see a soldier just like me who went the extra mile just like me and earned the right to be admitted into the ‘ Brotherhood Of The Silk ‘ .

Response by SGT Lou Meza made Mar 12 at 2018 6:37 PM

2018-03-12T18:37:12-04:00

Colonel William C Mayville commanding officer of the 173rd Airborne Brigade once said ‘ each one of these paratroopers is the equivalent to 10 to 15 normal human beings . ‘ What else is there to say ?

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Mar 12 at 2018 6:57 PM

2018-03-12T18:57:13-04:00

With Airborne Wings, Much like the Bronze Star, the devil is in the details. With the Bronze Star, I look for a V device. Without it, it's just a glorified AAM. With Airborne Wings, I look for a gold star. Without it, it's just a wearable school certificate...

Response by SFC Francisco Rosario made Jul 23 at 2018 3:58 PM

2018-07-23T15:58:53-04:00

I see a brother or sister who have gone in the same path i went

Response by Maj John Bell made Aug 11 at 2018 7:06 PM

2018-08-11T19:06:16-04:00

First I try to figure out what is the dumbest way to get to a gunfight:
_In a metal boat (Mike Boat) where the ramp drops and the bullets ricochet, or
_Hanging from a piece of cloth by some string.

When I was a 1stLt Iwas given a slot to go to Airborne school. Then the new Bn XO showed up and took the slot. The Battalion SgtMaj, by way of consolation, told me "Sir, if the Marine Corps needs you to jump out of a perfectly good airplane to get to a fight, there will be time enough to teach you the basics between the time they put the parachute on your back and when they tell you to get out of the #^%$*!@ plane."

Response by Capt Bob Abbott made Aug 12 at 2018 1:23 AM

2018-08-12T01:23:13-04:00

That they have bad knees

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 12 at 2018 3:49 AM

2018-08-12T03:49:00-04:00

There is a difference between a person that just went to Airborne school and a person that has served in an airborne unit. As a career Paratrooper I know the difference from 82nd, to 173rd and SF. There is a special pride and bond that the rest of the military do not understand. Not just from drinking all night and running 7 miles in the morning but going above and beyond in everything. ALL THE WAY, SKY SOLDIER, DE OPPRESSO LIBER.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 12 at 2018 10:15 AM

2018-08-12T10:15:36-04:00

They took training where I used to serve.

Response by LTC David Brown made Aug 12 at 2018 10:29 AM

2018-08-12T10:29:13-04:00

I have a lot of respect. They went the extra mile. Once that is in your record you can get a call to go.

Response by SGT Philip Roncari made Sep 20 at 2018 9:24 AM

2018-09-20T09:24:54-04:00

Absolute trust,anyone willing to leap out of a perfectly good aircraft has got to be bat shit crazy and I want that nut to be next to me when the world around you turns loud and dangerous,second choice South Korean soldiers they also fill the bill as “Berserkers”

Response by CAPT Michael Toleno made Sep 20 at 2018 1:04 PM

2018-09-20T13:04:16-04:00

What do you think when you see a sailor (Navy officer or enlisted) with jump wings (particularly without the SEAL trident)? Just curious.

Response by SSG Lon Watson made Dec 14 at 2018 12:02 PM

2018-12-14T12:02:34-05:00

Yes I think they are a cut above. But there’s a big difference in doing 5 jumps in airborne school and jumping month in and month out in an Airborne Unit. Then there’s jumpmaster school. It always bugged me when NCOs and officers with several years in an Airborne unit never wanted to go to jumpmaster school. Jumpmaster is a technical/leadership school that separates regular paratroopers from elites.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 14 at 2019 1:52 AM

2019-10-14T01:52:13-04:00

I was fortunate enough to go straight to the 82nd right out of jump school, and it's the only unit I've known so far. From "legs" that I've befriended and spoken to since enlisting, we're known as crazy people willing to do what the majority of others won't. For me, seeing jump wings isn't enough. There are too many schmucks out there who sucked it up enough to become a 5-jump-chump and brag to everyone about how they're Airborne and call everyone else they see a dirty nasty leg. If I see an 82nd patch or a 173rd patch on their sleeve, you can rest assured that I'll think of them as a brother or sister.

Response by CPT Robert Holden made Oct 22 at 2019 1:16 AM

2019-10-22T01:16:56-04:00

While I was never assigned to an airborne division I always respected those that wore the wings

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Oct 22 at 2019 8:55 PM

2019-10-22T20:55:59-04:00

I think the Soldier had both the courage and strength to step out of a perfectly good airplane. I am proud I flew over 25 personnel drops and never put a trooper in the trees or water.
If I see an enlisted airman with jump wings I think he or she is either prior service, pararescue, or TACP. AF officers with jump wings are usually AF Academy grads.

Response by MAJ Matthew Arnold made Oct 23 at 2019 1:19 AM

2019-10-23T01:19:45-04:00

I was assigned to airborne unit right after jump school. I am proud of being airborne. After 5 years in airborne units I decided to go to flight school. I flew UH-1s for the next 19 years. I am even more proud of being an aviator. I think we are all proud of what we have worked very hard to achieve. So, when I see a paratrooper badge or any other qualification badge which sets one apart from the other million, I think, there is a soldier, sailor, marine, airman, that wanted to achieve something more.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 23 at 2019 11:47 AM

2019-10-23T11:47:04-04:00

Paratroopers are full of themselves, but rightfully so. I spent nearly 10 years in various Airborne units, and I spent the rest of my career in non-Airborne units. Paratroopers hold themselves to a higher standard in all things than the non-Airborne soldiers. It's just a fact, and they have a higher overall esprit de corps, as well as a higher willingness to close with and destroy the enemy. You don't have to like it, but you can put the average Paratrooper side by side with the average grunt, and there's no comparison.

Response by MSG Lonnie Averkamp made Oct 23 at 2019 12:15 PM

2019-10-23T12:15:38-04:00

I remained in Airborne & S.F. Units for 'most-all of my military career, because I wanted the guy watching my back to be of the highest quality. We have all seen the guy who will sleep on his watch or violate light discipline with a cigarette, and those kind of actions will get him (and his comrades) killed. Artillery is a "to Whom it may Concern" Weapon. Those people will not remain for long in an Elite Unit (Airborne, SF, Ranger, Pathfinder, Marine, SEAL, ParaRescue, etc).

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Oct 23 at 2019 1:38 PM

2019-10-23T13:38:40-04:00

I was not impressed. I would rather have a motivated soldier than one who has the bling.

Response by SGT James Moore made Oct 23 at 2019 4:31 PM

2019-10-23T16:31:43-04:00

Rangers lead the way!!!! Airborne is just a stop on the way!

Response by HA Shirley Symon made Oct 23 at 2019 5:33 PM

2019-10-23T17:33:27-04:00

I think they did something special but it doesn't make them any more special than say an expert marksman.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 23 at 2019 6:55 PM

2019-10-23T18:55:41-04:00

It depends on the circumstances. If it’s a jump unit, then they should have them. If the soldier had come from a jump unit, that’s fine. If they went to jump school just to go to jump school without the intent of going to a jump unit at some point, then I question why they did it.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 23 at 2019 8:38 PM

2019-10-23T20:38:07-04:00

It depends on the Soldier. After Jump School, I spent my career in Armor and CAV despite countless 4187s to get to an ABN unit. But I always tried take what I learned and applied it to what I was doing. And I've seen many a "jump qualified" Soldier just wear their wings as flair.

Response by SSgt Michael Snider made Oct 24 at 2019 2:38 PM

2019-10-24T14:38:42-04:00

Just extra cargo for me to deal with.

Response by CPT Robert Holden made Oct 24 at 2019 3:05 PM

2019-10-24T15:05:09-04:00

Much respect for anyone that goes airborne. While I was never assigned to an airborne division I’ll have respect for them . I went to jump school at 18 just because I wanted the experience

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Oct 24 at 2019 3:27 PM

2019-10-24T15:27:49-04:00

I see someone who was too scared to go to Air Assault ;o)

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 24 at 2019 4:02 PM

2019-10-24T16:02:29-04:00

What do I think about when I see a paratrooper? Unfortunately, it always reminds me of a good friend and father of three who's chute didn't open on a classified mission and was killed immediately when he hit the ground. I will forever keep him alive in my heart, and I have the utmost respect for all paratroopers, regardless of branch, or when and where they served - they indeed are a special, badass bunch. That said, I agree with Gunny O'Donnell, and I truly believe we all make a difference, regardless of whether a paratroop, grunt, a cook or any other "member of our team". We are all interdependent on each other, and every cog in the machine is necessary to make it work. Regardless if front line, or rear theater operations, we are all exceptional professionals, and I thank God for each and every one of us! Warriors forever! Full disclosure: my niece Nadine is a real jewel who again took her valuable time to help me here, and I couldn't be on this site, or do many other things without her help - my sincere thanks to you, my dear!
EDIT, 02NOV19: Clarification: My friend who died when his chute didn't open was never in the same unit as I was, and I was never a paratroop. We were just good friends who met on a mutual deployment.

Response by SPC Nathan Welle made Oct 25 at 2019 12:51 AM

2019-10-25T00:51:25-04:00

I'd be thinking....IF YOU AIN'T CAV THEN YOU AINT SHIT. Then again I twisted an ankle jumping off a 113 and it still aches "sometimes". ALLONS! See your retention officer. Sorry I hate digging up old posts, but i'm laughing.

Response by SGT Doug Blanchard made Nov 10 at 2019 4:48 PM

2019-11-10T16:48:44-05:00

Like my dad used to say, and he wore Master Blaster wings with three combat jumps in WW II, "Why the he'll walk into it when you can jump into it". It was because of him when I enlisted that I requested jump school.
Fyi, in the military, there is no such animal as a perfectly good airplane, we are in military aircraft, planes or help. Not civilian aircraft..
AATW

Response by 1SG Michael Farrell made Nov 16 at 2019 9:53 PM

2019-11-16T21:53:25-05:00

Depends on the soldier. Appearance, bearing, demonstrated courtesy and expertise. Uniforms are sort of like resumes when you think of it. Spit shined jump boots have gone the way of the Kiwi bird --which is a good thing -- but it's a qualification. Along with other qualifications, it can tell me a lot or absolutely nothing.

Response by SSG John Jensen made Dec 7 at 2019 4:14 PM

2019-12-07T16:14:44-05:00

Herb Caen, the longtime columnist for the San Francisco Chronicle, in his columns at the time of the 50th anniversary of D-Day, was writing remembrances - the most memorable was that as a journalist with the Stars and Stripes (as a Pvt) was driving the Major all around the AO, very carefully avoiding areas where there were paratroopers, because his Major was a "leg" officer that was wearing Jump Boots, they were in more danger from GIs than they were from the Germans.

Response by CSM Thomas Ray made Apr 8 at 2020 10:12 AM

2020-04-08T10:12:38-04:00

When I see jump wings , I wonder if they have back problems like me