Exploring the Paratroopers- A Glimpse into the Elite Branch of the Military

What branch of the military are paratroopers? Paratroopers are a unique and specialized group of soldiers who serve in the United States Army. Known for their ability to be deployed by air, these soldiers undergo rigorous training to perform airborne operations and provide rapid insertion into enemy territory. The branch of the military they belong to is the United States Army Parachute Team, commonly referred to as the Golden Knights.

The Golden Knights are a part of the United States Army Special Operations Command (USASOC) and are based at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. They are one of the most elite units within the Army, and their mission is to train, deploy, and advise airborne soldiers. Paratroopers are highly skilled in various aspects of warfare, including air assault operations, combat jumps, and direct action missions.

Paratroopers have been an integral part of the U.S. military since the early 20th century. The first recorded use of paratroopers occurred during World War I, where soldiers were dropped by aircraft to support ground troops. However, it was during World War II that paratroopers gained widespread recognition for their bravery and effectiveness in combat.

Training to become a paratrooper is a challenging and demanding process. Prospective soldiers must first complete the Basic Combat Training (BCT) program, which is designed to teach the fundamental skills necessary for military service. Following BCT, soldiers interested in becoming paratroopers must attend the Parachute Jump School, also known as the Basic Parachute Course (BPC).

The BPC is an intense 12-week program that focuses on teaching soldiers how to parachute, as well as the skills needed to survive and operate in an airborne environment. Students must complete a series of jumps, starting with tandem jumps with an instructor and eventually progressing to solo jumps. The course culminates with a 12-parachute jump requirement, including night jumps and low-level parachute drops.

Once soldiers have successfully completed the BPC, they can become members of the Golden Knights. This elite unit is responsible for showcasing the capabilities of the U.S. Army’s airborne forces through demonstrations and exhibitions. The Golden Knights perform precision flying, formation flying, and static line and free-fall jumps. They have participated in numerous events, including the famous New York City parachute demonstration, where they have jumped from a helicopter above the city.

Beyond their public demonstrations, the Golden Knights are also actively involved in training other paratroopers. They serve as role models and mentors, teaching the next generation of soldiers the skills and techniques needed to excel in the airborne environment.

Paratroopers play a crucial role in modern warfare, providing the military with the ability to quickly and silently insert forces into areas where traditional ground or air assaults would be impractical. Their versatility and adaptability make them valuable assets in both combat and non-combat missions.

In conclusion, paratroopers are members of the United States Army, serving in the United States Army Parachute Team, also known as the Golden Knights. These elite soldiers undergo rigorous training to become experts in airborne operations, and their unique skills have made them an essential part of the U.S. military’s arsenal.