AUGUST ‘24

”AIRBORNE”
MONTHLY CHALLENGE

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Ruck Strap w/Carabiner

COMPLETE THE CHALLENGE.
EARN THE PATCH.

AIRBORNE

As reported on www.hfotusa.org, on August 16, 1940, 48 volunteer members of the U.S. Army Parachute Test Platoon performed the first official U.S. military parachute jump at Fort Benning, Georgia. Today, the date is celebrated as National Airborne Day, a day to honor the U.S. Airborne Forces.

After the first jump, a large force of more 100,000 paratroopers was formed and assigned to the 11th 13th, 17th, 82d, and 101st Airborne Divisions, which fought in every theater during World War II, according to the Department of Defense. Parachutes were an innovative technique used by the Allied Forces, enabling them to deploy troops behind enemy lines. Parachute assaults were key to the US military’s success in the battles for Sicily, Salerno, and D-Day. During the operation into 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. A number of our HFOT Veterans were serving in airborne units when they were injured.

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 more)

ORDERS:

Mission Name: Airborne Honor Ruck
Date: August 16th (National Airborne Day)
Location: Local park, military base, or designated ruck trail
Participants: Open to military personnel, veterans, and civilians

Event Schedule:

Check-In and Gear Inspection (0600-0630):

Ensure all participants have the required gear:
- Rucksack
- Weight Plate
- Hydration system
- Personal identification.

Opening Ceremony (0630-0700):

National Anthem
Speech on the history and significance of National Airborne Day
Moment of silence for fallen airborne soldiers

Ruck March Briefing (0700-0715):

Safety briefing
Route overview and checkpoints
Rules of conduct and respect

Warm-Up and Stretching (0715-0730):

Group warm-up exercises
Emphasis on injury prevention

Ruck March Start (0730):

Route: 10 miles through various terrains (roads, trails, fields)
Checkpoints: Every 2 miles for water and rest breaks
Challenges: At each checkpoint, participants complete a physical or mental challenge related to airborne training (e.g., push-ups, trivia questions about airborne history)

Mid-Point Ceremony (Approx. 0900):

Short speech or reading from an airborne veteran or guest speaker
Recitation of the Airborne Creed

Ruck March Continuation (0915-1130):

Continue the remaining 5 miles with the same checkpoints and challenges

Finish Line and Cool Down (1130-1200):

Group cool-down exercises
Stretching and hydration

Closing Ceremony (1200-1230):

Patch presentation for all participants
Special recognition for top finishers and airborne veterans
Group photo

Refreshments and Fellowship (1230-1300):

Light refreshments and snacks
Participants share their experiences and stories

NOTES: Ruck weight can vary. Typically, 20 pounds if you weight under 150; 30 pounds if you are over 150. As always, modify as necessary.

Subscriptions: Patches will be shipped starting the 1st of the month. New subscribers should wait until the 1st of the month to begin with this patch.

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