EL PASO, Texas - On Aug. 16, 1940, the Army's Parachute Test Platoon conducted the first parachute jump. On this day, the concept of dropping paratroopers in combat was validated and the insertion of ground forces with the use of parachutes in combat zones started. In 2002, in remembrance of all paratroopers who served in the past and present, President George W. Bush proclaimed Aug. 16 as National Airborne Day.
The 82nd Airborne Division Association, Benavidez-Patterson Chapter in El Paso, celebrated the 75th anniversary of the first airborne jump with a chapter open house and gathering here Aug. 15.
"In recognition of the service of all airborne units and all paratroopers who served in various airborne units, we're celebrating 75 years of airborne service to our country," said former Sgt. John Ceballos, public information officer for the chapter. "We opened this to the public so they can come in and meet some of our paratroopers and learn a little bit about the airborne concept."
This celebration aimed to bring together former and current airborne Soldiers in El Paso. A grill was set up in the backyard with hot dogs and burgers for everyone, a bar filled with drinks for all ages, water, juice, soda and even beer are available. And finally, an airborne veteran, wearing the old-school BDU's with full airborne gear, served as a mascot during the event.
"By doing this, we are building camaraderie among former and current airborne Soldiers," said Ceballos. "We have our veterans here, and we have some Soldiers from the sergeant major academy celebrating with us today."
The gathering also brought paratroopers in the community together and let them share their stories with each other, Ceballos said.
The chapter house is filled with airborne and paratrooper memories. The ceiling is painted with different airborne unit patches. Upon its walls hang photos of airborne veterans.
Bookshelves filled with airborne and war stories are lined up in the library area. The patio houses the memorial wall dedicated to their fallen comrades. This aura brought the attendees together to share memories and stories with one another.
"One of the most memorable events in my airborne career took place during my 19th birthday," said retired Lt. Col. Robert Chisolm, a native of Dallas, 90 years old airborne veteran.
Chisolm shared his memory of the first time he was wounded in combat. He had already jumped in Normandy and was conducting a patrol when they made contact with the enemy. He was shot thrice: at his right shoulder, his head and his behind. Laughter filled the room as he shared his story.
Besides the stories and laughter, everyone took their time to remember their fallen comrades.
"Being airborne, our brotherhood was formed under enemy fire, and on that memorial wall lies the names of my brothers," said Chisolm.
This association is open for membership to any airborne and paratroopers in the El Paso community. For more information on joining the group please contact John Ceballos at (915) 240-8104 or visit them on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the chapter house located in 2608 Fort Blvd., El Paso, Texas, 79930.
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