National Airborne Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Airborne Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Airborne Day is celebrated on August 16th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Airborne Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as captivating facts you ought to know about National Airborne Day.

📅 What day is National Airborne Day 2024?

In 2024, National Airborne Day is on Wednesday, August 16th. It is the 3rd Wednesday in August; in 2024, it is Friday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all the fun details and facts about August 16, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

In 2002, former President George W. Bush established National Airborne Day on August 16. This day is meant to recognize and honor the achievements of American airborne forces in various battles, regions, and peacekeeping missions throughout history. One notable example is the successful invasion of Normandy in World War II, where the use of airborne troops played a crucial role in the mission’s success. Since the first deployment of paratroopers in the United States on August 16, 1942, the airborne divisions, including the renowned 101st “Screaming Eagles,” have consistently demonstrated courage and excellence.

📜 National Airborne Day History

In the movie “Saving Private Ryan,” it is shown that paratroopers during WWII faced various challenges when parachuting into German territory. They experienced confusion and difficulty in maintaining their sense of direction, especially during nighttime paratrooper attacks. Another issue they faced was a lack of readily available supplies. To obtain food, weapons, and ammunition, the airborne forces had to scavenge and utilize every resource they could find. Additionally, being surrounded by the enemy on all sides added to the danger they faced.

National Airborne Day provides an opportunity to honor the rigorous training undergone by Army airborne troops. It is important to highlight the safety measures involved in this training, with jumpmasters paying close attention to every detail and regularly checking the equipment.

Airborne techniques have evolved alongside other military doctrines over the years. In 2002, President Bush declared the anniversary of the first airborne attack as a national holiday. This was further supported by the United States Senate through Senate Resolution 235 in 2009. Since then, August 16 has become a patriotic holiday with a special significance, as airborne forces are considered to be the best of the best, earning top awards in the Armed Services.

✅ National Airborne Day Facts

🔖 “Surprise, surprise!”
Due to the way airborne deployment works, a significant amount of soldiers can suddenly appear out of nowhere to catch the enemy off guard, which is referred to as “vertical envelopment.”

🔖 “Was ist das?!”
Although head lice can cause discomfort and itching, it is important to note that they do not spread or transmit illnesses.

🔖 “Here, boy!”
In World War II, there were certain German Shepherds known as “Para-Dogs” that would occasionally parachute alongside British airborne forces. These incredible dogs were trained to perform tasks such as detecting mines and standing guard.

👍 Why Is National Airborne Day Important

Because airborne operations were pioneered in large part by Americans, commemorating National Airborne Day with solemnity is part of our patriotic duty.

When you think about it, jumping out of planes thousands of feet above the ground and landing safely on the ground below is a mind-boggling feat. Add to that the danger and critical need for success, and you can see why paratroopers are still revered today!

We are not in the business of glorifying violence, yet there is a sense of childish wonder and amazement when considering the military’s airborne missions. Isn’t it because movies are made about people floating down in the dark, quick and silent?

🙂 How To Observe National Airborne Day

⚡ Visit the Airborne Museum

⚡ Call or email a paratrooper
If you know someone in your family or friend group who is part of an airborne division, it would be meaningful to show your gratitude and admiration. It only takes a moment, and they will surely value your gesture.

⚡ Go skydiving
The museum’s physical location is in Sainte-Mère-Eglise, France, so it may be out of reach for the typical budget, but the museum’s website has a plethora of comprehensive information and anecdotes about the world’s airborne soldiers.

📅 When is National Airborne Day?

You can view all 🔗 August holidays, including 🔗 and other 🔗 American holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and must-know facts about National Airborne Day. So be sure to check back soon.