Give Me, O Lord My God, What Is Left Of Thee

Описание: by Bob C.
U.S. Army paratroopers originated in 1940 with a test platoon at Fort Benning, developing rapidly to execute crucial vertical envelopment tactics during World War II, notably on D-Day, in Italy, and at the Battle of the Bulge. Renowned for elite training, they became a key force, utilizing specialized parachute gear and, as of 2007, the T-11 system.
Origins (1930s–1940): Inspired by early parachute experiments and foreign successes, the US War Department authorized a Parachute Test Platoon under the Infantry Branch in 1940. Major William C. Lee, known as the "father of the American Airborne," oversaw the initial development and training. The First Jump (Aug 16, 1940): The first official Army parachute jump occurred on Aug 16, 1940, at Fort Benning, Georgia, with 48 soldiers
World War II (1942–1945): The U.S. formed several airborne divisions, including the 11th, 13th, 17th, 82nd ("All-American"), and 101st ("Screaming Eagles"). They conducted pivotal combat jumps in Sicily (1943), Normandy (June 1944), and Operation Market Garden (1944).
Innovations and Equipment: Unlike other nations, U.S. paratroopers in WWII used a reserve parachute. Specialized units, such as "pathfinders," were introduced to mark drop zones. Integration and Post-War: The 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion ("Triple Nickles") served as a model for desegregation in the Army, later integrating into the 82nd Airborne in 1947.
Modern Era: Paratroopers remain an elite component of the U.S. Army, with equipment evolving to the T-11 parachute system introduced in 2007. The 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions are the most recognizable, with August 16 celebrated as National Airborne Day.