In the past 50 years or so, parachuting and skydiving have become a favorite sport for thousands around the world. Many see this great activity as the perfect way to spend a weekend afternoon. Some even plan their vacation around skydiving, seeking unique and beautiful places to see from the atmosphere. But, in spite of the hundreds of recreation and competition activities associated with skydiving, it is important to remember just how this thing called skydiving got its start.



The United States Army used parachuting as a major military tactic during World War II, using airplanes to put paratroopers into the battle zones. In those years the equipment was considerably less developed than it is today, with soldiers descending to the earth under heavy, round canvas chutes, clad in the best jumpsuits and boots that could be developed.

But there were enough soldiers who trained in this sector of the army to bring the idea of parachuting back home when the war ended.

Army Skydiving Teams

During the ensuing years, not only have the returning veterans continued to sky dive, but groups have formed within the military branches to provide recreation and competition for the active soldier. Many military teams are among the best in parachuting and skydiving competition. Aerial acrobatics is a particularly successful area for these teams. The Red Devils skydiving team has a history dating back to 1964. In the last 40 to 45 years, this group has performed around the world in their red jumpsuits, displaying formation skydiving to the multitudes.

Popular Army Teams

One of the things that separates military skydiving teams from those in the civilian sector is the precision displayed during formation diving. While Army life can be dangerous and monotonous at the same time, personnel often find that they are happiest when they devote a lot of their open time to perfecting skydiving routines. The individuals also communicate extremely well, working tightly within a structured environment.

The skills these individuals develop while on active service moves with them to civilian life and the skydiving they do in private life. The formations and maneuvers developed find their way into public displays at air shows, fairs and so on. Some military personnel have established their own businesses at skydiving centers after leaving the military. These have been some of the most successful skydiving schools and jump centers anywhere. From military tactic to public recreation ? has a long and interesting history.