Pope reservists participate in airborne celebration

  • Published
  • 440th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
POPE ARMY AIR FIELD, N.C. --  Everyone knows that paratroopers and C-130s go together like peanut butter and jelly. So when current and former paratroopers gathered in Florida earlier this month to celebrate the 82nd Airborne Division and the 75th anniversary of airborne operations, it wasn't a surprise that the 440th Airlift Wing, Air Force Reserve, was there to support.

The annual 82nd Airborne Convention was held in Orlando, Fla. in mid-August. The event promotes camaraderie among past and present membership and ensures the business of the association is conducted.

While many activities were planned for the event to include the All American Chorus and color guard, one of the most memorable events occurred as paratroopers held a commemorative jump at Avon Park Air Force Range.

The 440th Airlift Wing supplied the C-130 and crew to help present day 82nd Airborne paratroopers honor the very first jump nearly 75 years ago over Fort Benning, Georgia.

"The 82nd Airborne Division is an amazing total force partner," said Col. Karl Schmitkons, 440th Airlift Wing commander. "Their history is very much our history and we were glad to be a part of this special day."